"The time has come" can be a great start for just about anything you are preparing to say. In my case...the time has come for me to finally commit to a journal. I have been using DT for about 8 months now and have put off doing a journal since day one. I am on this site just about everyday and love to read every one else's journals and post questions and advice, but never wanted to put myself on display. Well, "the time has come!" I am nearing my goal weight...very slowly...and now is probably when I will need the most support and encouragement to maintain my progress.

So far, to date I have lost about 38 pounds. I think I want to lose about 10-12 more and then begin working more seriously on toning. I have been doing this since January and have used the methods of increased water intake, exercise, and calorie counting. I try to get between 1200-1500 calories a day, and depending on how extensive my workout for the day is I may increase my calories to 1600-1700. I try to balance everything out accordingly.

I must warn anyone who may read this journal, that it may not necessarily be all about health and weightloss, there may be plenty of days where I may get on here talk about any and everything that crosses my mind. With that said, I really hope to hear from everyone from time to time. Feel free to drop in and post and let me know what you are thinking.

Well, I guess that is all for now. I am at work and will attempt to actually get some work done today. I will probably post again today depending on what comes up.

Hello Stickin2it,
I think you made a good choice by deciding to start your own journal though it does help to stay motivated reading and responding to others I think by choosing to do your own helps to hold you more accountable for your actions because you know that others are watching what you are doing at least I know it helps me out greatly.WTG on your weight loss you are doing excellent keep up the good work.

It doesn't matter what you did yesterday
or the day before,it matters what you do today.
-unknown

Decide carefully exactly
what you want in life,
then work like mad
to make sure you get it.
-unknown

Thanks, MinnieMe. I knew this journal would keep me more accountable. I journal on fitday, so I debated with whether or not I would have time to journal on both, but I decided too go for it. I am on here almost everyday anyway.

Hey, stranger! Glad to see that you have finally started your journal. :D

I find that a journal keeps me accountable, and I hope that it is equally effective for you.

I knew you'd be proud of me. I have been saying I was going to start a journal for a month now...well I finally did it.

I worked out at the gym today and did a little walking and running in the neighborhood after I left the gym. I also got the opportunity to workout on my tummy today, which is something that I tend to neglect. I also had pretty good water intake. Not as good as I have had in the last couple of days, but it was fairly good.

Overall, I am pleased with the day. I got the munchies a couple of times today, but nothing major. I do need to continue to watch my discipline though and not get lax on this. I guess that is ultimately why I started my journal, so that I won't get lax. I know that there are plenty of people here who will get onto me for getting lax on the job and falling into old habits.

Today hasn't been too bad of a day. I did not get nearly as much water as I should have. That usually happens when I am off of work. For some reason, I drink plenty of water at work, but at home or on the road running errands, I tend to neglect my water intake.

I did get in some walking and running today. I did 4.8 miles in the neighborhood. I will get up and go to the gym in the morning. I need to get some focus back on toning.

My eating wasn't too bad today. I did fairly well...until I went to my moms house this evening. She had cooked fish, shrimp, and fries. (No idea what the occassion was) Anyway, I enjoyed it...good thing I got in some exercise.

Mom's house is always the downfall of a good diet day, isn't it? Terrible! It's hard to say no to Mom's cooking though...

I have the same problem with drinking water at home. At work, I can easily down 70 or more ounces, and at home, I really never think about it. I have two theories on this. The first is that at work, I spend most of my day talking and moving around, so I'm just thirstier. The second is that work helps me stick to a routine. I drink more water, but I also eat a little better on a routine, especially since I'm stuck in the building, and I can't go eat at a restaurant for lunch. I know people who fill a pitcher of water every morning and keep it in the fridge, and make it a point to finish off the water during the day. Seems like it's an easy way to keep track of your water intake.

Have a great weekend. :)

Andrea - I agree with your water theories. I am at a desk about 40% of my day, so I keep water right there and drink periodically. When I am away from my desk doing other things throughout the building I am always carrying a glass of water with me. I always consume more than enough. When I am at home I don't think about how much water I drink until the end of the day/night and then I am like "dang...I only drank x number glasses of water today." I don't know why that is.

So much for going to the gym this morning. I woke up and got busy doing other things and ran some errands, went to mom's house (didn't eat anything there), went to grocery store, and now I am doing massive overall on cleaning my house and doing laundry. I may find a few seconds to jump on my TM for a little while. It won't be for very long, but something is better than nothing...right?

Hi stickin2it,thats right I definitely will agree with you something is better than nothing,plus cleaning and laundry thats a bit of a workout too, in my book I know I can work up a sweat with all that bending and moving around.Your obviously doing something right your close to goal WTG you are doing excellent!!!

No matter how crazy and hectic
my day,I will make time to
pamper myself.
-unknown

Thanks for the suport, Minnieme. I really appreciate getting on here and seeing encouraging words.

I FINALLY GOT TO MOVE MY TICKER. I always weigh on Sunday mornings, and this morning I stepped on the scale and was down 2 pds. I cannot say how excited I am. These last few pounds have been pure evil. My body is pulling one way, and I am pulling another way. My body is saying "no, no, no", and I am saying "just a few more". I am getting there...slowly...but getting there. Mornings like this revive me and make want to keep going.

I boiled some shrimp today for dinner and am going to use the remainder of it for a salad tomorrow for lunch. Today has not been much of a productive day. Other than finishing laundry and doing some cooking, I have basically been a bum. I am going to clean my car...and it is still hot outside, so I am sure I break a sweat. I am also going to go in the neighborhood for some execise with my sister, probably some walking and running.

So far today, I have done fairly well. I am right where I want to be with my water, as well as with my calories. I am planning to go to the gym tonight. I need to run a couple errands first, but I am definitely going to hit the gym. I have been trying to walk/run with my family and swim with co-workers that I have forgotten that I have a gym membership. It just dawned me today that I am paid up for this month and I need to get my tail in there. I haven't been since Thursday.

WTG on your 2lb loss this week you are rockin girl!That last bit of weight always seems the toughest to come off but you are so close and there is no doubt about it you will be seeing your goal very soon,
keep up the excellent work before you know it you will be on your way to learning how to stay fit and trim in your beautiful new body.They always say that is the true test but you already know what needs to be done you just need to continue a full, healthy, energetic life because you deserve nothing less.

"Living a healthy lifestyle will only
deprive you of poor health,lethargy,
and fat"
~Jill Johnson~

Thanks MinnieMe, it really is great to see support on here. It is nice to get ready to post and notice that someone has wrote something encouraging for you to read. I really appreciate that. The last few pounds are the hardest, but they are so worth it. Even if they are few and far between in the end.

I just noticed that we both started at the same weight. You are doing an awesome job yourself. Keep up the good work. WE CAN DO THIS!!!! I think my ultimate goal is going to be 150-155...somewhere in that range. The smallest I have ever been is 156 and that was over 10 years. I think once I get to that weight, I will be comfortable enough with it to start more extensive toning and slight sculpting/muscle building.

Well, I just made it in from the gym and about to get ready for bed. I have a somewhat busy day tomorrow, but it's fine since I am off of work on Wednesday. I busted my tail at the gym tonight. I know that I should sleep good. I did 55 minutes on the eliptical machine and then done some work on my tummy and sides. I burned around 900 calories and worked up a real good sweat. Today, I must say, was a good day.

Just wondering... are you lifting weights now? You can start toning and sculpting as you lose, not just after you lose it all. If you do many repetitions of low weights (not your max ability) you will tone rather than build bulk. Lifting weights burns calories and will help you lose inches, if not necessarily pounds. Just food for thought. :)

Hey, thanks for the tip. I am about to begin. I don't really want to wait until I am completely done...that might take forever. I am definitely considering beginning the toning...probably this week.

I managed to drag myself to the gym tonight. I was not feeling it at all. I put it off until around 8:00 and finally made myself get up and get dressed and go. Today was not the greatest day. I really just wanted to stay in bed all night and wait for morning to come, but I went to the gym. I am glad that I did and I feel better now.

My eating and water intake today was horrible...but tomorrow is a new day and I will do better. At least I did go to the gym to try and balance out some of the sinful foods I consumed today. I worked out on the bike, TM, and eliptical. I also worked on my stomach and started light toning on my arms. I expect them to be sore in the morning.

Hiya Stick!

Glad to see that you started a journal. :)
I've been trying to read as many other journals as I can for some tips and motivation to help me with my own,
and seeing your awesome job at exercise makes me want to get off my butt and start too!

That's awesome that you're so close to your goal! Keep up the good work!

I am glad to know that I have provided some inspiration. Thank you for the kind words and I am glad that you are checking out my journal. I get tired of talking to myself sometimes.

As for me, today was spent at the hair salon and hanging with a friend. I know my calories shot thru the roof, but oh well. I will get back in the swing of things tomorrow. All work and no play makes for a dull me. I did, however, try to do my best with my lunch selection and drink choices. There will be no exercise today, but I will get back into it tomorrow when I come from work. In case you haven't figured it out yet, I played hooky from work today...shhh!!

Playing hooky is definitely a good thing once in awhile. Did you do anything fun to your hair? I have been toying with the idea of dyeing mine before I head back to school.

Don't worry about the extra calories. Sometimes, I find that one or two high-cal days zaps my body back into attention, and I actually lose afterwards. I hope that this will be the case for you, and even if it's not, you are doing well most of the time, and you are exercising, even when you feel like crapola. You don't have any reason to be down on yourself.

Oh trust me, I am not down on myself. Everyone has those days...and that day was well worth it. I did cut my hair and it is doing kind of a spikey thing. I cut quite a bit off, but I really like it and it is much easier to work with than I thought it would be.

Yesterday, I got right back on the workout wagon with some cardio for a little over an hour. I didn't have a chance to get in any toning, but I will try and get some in today when I get off of work. That should not be a problem, but we will see.

Thanks for the support everyone.

Hi there,

Nice to see that you have your journal up and going. :) Congrats on your weight loss. I agree with you that when you do see the numbers go down it is encouraging to continue on this journey.

Have a great weekend!

Cheers
Mary

How is the toning going? I never thought I would like to lift weights, but I really see results a lot faster from weight training than I do with cardio. The scale may not budge, but my clothes sure fit differently.

New haircuts are always fun. I'm dying to do something different with mine. What made you decide to change it--- just ready for a switch?

Still seeing the new boy? :x

Mary - thanks for dropping in. I always like to see that people have checked in on me. Thank you for the support.

Teacher81 - The weights are going good. I had a good workout yesterday morning (Sat). I did an hour of cardio, then worked on my upper body with light weight lifting. My arms are definitely sore today, but it is a good thing. I also did some toning work on my stomach and sides. I decided to get my haircut because I wanted a change. I wanted something different to go with the different looking me. I absolutely love it and it is much more manageable than I thought it would be. It has been a good change for me. The new guy....uuhhhhh NO! That ended up not going over well. Let's just say that things didn't work out the way I thought they would. We had a good time and good talks while it lasted...ever short it was!!!

Well, today I am making taco salad for dinner with extra lean turkey meat. I have some laundry going and I am going to do some grooming work on my dog. Yes...I know what I am doing. I am no professional, but it will be a little trim until I can get her to the groomer.

Finshed up the day doing fairly well. I did good on my calories and got a lot of household chores done that I have been putting off. I am just about ready to call it a night and prepare myself for the upcoming week.

:cheer: GOOD LUCK THIS WEEK STICK!! :cheer:

Workin - thanks for the support.

I don't really have much to report on right this moment. I just got on because I was beginning to get sleepy. SSSHHHH...I am at work! I figured if I got on and read some posts. I would wake myself up a little.

I am planning on going to the gym this afternoon. I am going to attempt to go earlier than usual. I really want to get to bed earlier tonight...been kinda drained lately, so I am going to go ahead and the get the workout over with as soon as I get off.

Yesterday turned out to be a "not so bad" day. It ended much more pleasant than it began. I went to the gym right after work and got in some cardio and some toning. I worked on my tummy, arms, and slightly on my legs. My arms are feeling like 5 pd bags of sugar this morning. I know that feeling will pass, I just have to keep doing it to wear the soreness down some.

I also did really well on my calorie intake yesterday. I probably should have eaten a little more than I did, but the day was really CRAZY...I am glad that I was able to get in a workout at all and manage to log my calories. I burned over 900 calories at the gym, so I really should of grabbed something else to eat yesterday, some fruit or something. All in all, I am satisfied though. We will see what this day brings.

900 calories?? My goodness! What on Earth did you do? I burned 325 once in a rowing class and thought a miracle had occurred; my norm is about 200. Do tell!

I hope you get a little extra rest. I'm impressed that you went to the gym despite feeling tired; I usually skip the gym when I'm pooped.

Sorry to hear that the new boy didn't work out, but it doesn't sound like you're too broken up about it.

Have a great rest of the week!

Nope...not broken up at all. I was a little confused at first because I thought things were cool, but it happens...life happens

Well, I was definitely pooped yesterday. I came home from work, it started raining, and I crashed. I had planned to go to the gym around 7:30/8:00...the next thing I new it was almost 10:00. After waking up from the couch I just relocated to the bedroom and went back to sleep. See, I don't always exercise, and yesterday was definitely a day that I needed to. My water intake was good, but some of the things I munched on, I could have done without.

Usually when I go to the gym I use the eliptical machine, the TM, and bike. I like the eliptical machine best, so that is what I spend most of my time on. I try to do at least an hour on the eliptical with the resistance of about a 9 or 10 (that depends on your machine). That is really what makes me burn the calories. I always round down on my calories because who knows if those digital counters on the machines are actually correct, so I always subtract from my total calories burned just in case the machine is not calculating right.

The day is not over, but so far it has been fairly good. I am doing much better with my calories today (no munchies...so far) and I am not doing too bad on the water. Whenever I am at home or running errands I always slack up on the water...I need to work on that. I haven't been bumming (lounging) as much as I did yesterday, I did take a nap while waiting on the laundry to dry, but I also cleaned my kitchen and ran errands in town. I finally took care of some things that I have been putting off for a while.

Wow... an hour on the elliptical. You're a rock star. I get bored way too darned easily. I can do an hour-long aerobics or swim or step class, but I can't buckle down and do a machine. I should go to the gym while one of my favorite TV shows is on. If SVU was on, I'd be good to go. :laugh:

Keep up the great work. Don't sweat skipping the gym last night. If you crashed that hard, your body obviously needed the rest. Feel better today?

Thanks, Teacher. Yes, I do feel tons better. I made it to the gym and worked up a real good sweat. I burned about 600 calories and continued on my toning (arms, legs, and tummy). I did 35 minutes on the eliptical and 15 on the TM. Five minutes walking to warm up and did a quick 10 minute jog. I am good and tired and should sleep well tonight. I also did good on my calories and water intake. I have been trying to up my calories and get around 1700, but so far I am still lingering around 1400 and 1500. I am getting close to my goal and after awhile I am not going to want to continue to lose, but maintain, so I am trying to retrain my body at a higher calorie intake.

So that I don't get bored, I prop up a book or mag on the machine with me and that makes the time go by fast. I know what you mean, Teacher, about watching something good. I love those types of shows myself. Anything to do with detective work, crime, or something like that can easily keep me going for hours on end.

Well, I had a lot of positive progress today and ready for tomorrow. Thursday and Friday I will be out of town for a conference. I am not really looking forward to it, but hopefully it will be better than I am expecting it to be. I am not traveling alone, so that makes it better. I can have someone to chat with while sitting in these sessions. I am going to try to get in some exercise around the hotel while I am gone. I will be back late Friday night, so I know I won't get in any exercise Friday, but I will hopefully hit the gym Saturday morning. Until next time, best wishes to everyone who may read this.

Hi Stick!! I have been looking for your journal since you posted in mine, I am so glad you started one. I wanted to thank you for the support!

Sounds like your doing awesome in the workout and calories ranges. Keep up the good work. Your so close to goal you keep going!!!

LMJ

Hey Stick! You are doing so good! :cheer:

I just recently decided that I think I want to do the calorie counting thing- where do you get a list of all the calories of foods... I know they are on the back of the packages,haha, but I thought there was a list or something. Also- the total calories for the day include your beverages too, right? What's a good amount??

Other than that- I wish ya lived near me.. we have a similar workout routine!

Keep it up :)

Well, everybody I just got back in town from my conferences...BORING!!! And I am dead tired, but I am going to try and post a little something. First, let me say thanks for the support and thanks to those who check out my journal. It is always nice to see that someone checks your journal out. I try to post on as many others, as I can. If you have one...I will eventually find it and post.

My two days at conference weren't too bad. I didn't eat as best as I could, but I definitely could have done worse, so I am not trippin' on it. I did not get any exercise, but you can bet your A** I will be in the gym in the morning...whenever I get up...maybe mid-morning. I plan on sleeping in. I am drained and just want to shower and hit the bed. I did however, drink the entire Pacific Ocean in terms of water these last two days. I figured the water would help flush the "sinful" foods I had, plus make me go to the bathroom, which would in turn allow me to excuse myself a millon times durning the meeting to go the restroom.

LMJ - Thanks for the support...it really does mean a lot. It probably sounds lame, but this group (DT) has really become my healthy family over the last 8 months and I am appreciative.

FSU - Thanks to you also. Checking out your weight you are doing an awesome job yourself. Keep it up girl. Personally, for me, calorie counting has been my savior. I have it pretty much down pat, but I also attribute fitday.com to my success. Some don't like it and think it is time consuming, but it has been a dream come true for me. As for drinks, I count those in too, but I don't drink many drinks that have calories. I drink water and am still a soda junkie, so I make all my sodas diet and zero calorie. Wait, I also have coffee, but regular coffee has only a few calories...according to fitday.com and I just watch the amount of creamer I use...I count the calories in creamer. I also use only a zero calorie sweetner to sweeten it. So, yes I do count the the drinking calories...except alcoholic beverages. I haven't quite yet figured those out yet, so when I drink I just say...what the hell...and don't count them. I have learned, and I think I am correct, that 8 oz. of white wine is around 100 calories. Someone correct me if I am wrong. Mixed drinks, margaritas, etc. I have know idea and don't really worry about it. I count those as treats and I only have them once in a while. Hope that helps.

Alright, I am off to get ready for bed. I am too tired to proofread, so read around the mistakes. Until next time...

Hey there stick! (Its Kelly right?) I love the elliptical myself. I finally broke down and bought one. I'm sure its not as nice as the one used in the gym but its a workout for me. It was under 200 bucks and I can be home for the kids when I workout.

Sounds like you had fun at the conference hee hee. Isn't it funny how life can hand you something that throws you off track of either your excersize or eating habits. thats such a bummer. I had to chuckle when you said you had to excuse yourself from the meeting to use the potty.

Well I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

LMJ

LMJ - I am definitely planning on relaxing and having a good time this weekend, even if it is only just hanging around the house. The conference had its highlights...when the day was over...lol. Seriously though, there was only one speaker that I enjoyed listening to. She was a prosecutor in the district attorney's office in her area. She was so good and I mean girl had her s*** together. She had a great personality and kept everyone woke. The other guest speakers were blah...zzzzzzzzzzz!!!! I made it through it, though, and am glad to be home.

Being out of town can definitely put a damper on your exercise parade. I usually only weigh on Sundays, but I stepped on the scale this mornig. I was up about 2 pds, but still under 165, so I am okay. I want to get to 160, but my original goal was 165, so as long as I don't get back up over 165...I am okay, but I need to work on getting off these few pds. I have managed to put on over the last week.

You are one of the few people that I've talked with that like the eliptical the way I do. I love that machine. I am considering buying one for myself as a treat. If I keep up all the good work and progress, I am going to get one for myself for Christmas. I think that may be a good treat for myself...something to reward myself.

Well, one more cup of coffee and I am off to the gym. I plan on being there for a little while.

Well, I made it to the gym this morning and had a real good workout and sweat. :mus: I guess I was getting out all the toxic junk I had over the last two days that my body wasn't used to. I really didn't eat too bad over the last two days, I am just majorly hard on myself so that I can work harder to make up for it.X-(

I made it to the gym around 10:30...guess that is mid-morning and left a little after 12:00. I spent 70 minutes on the eliptical machine and the rest of the time I worked with weights and toning. I did reps on my arms, legs, tummy, and sides. Got to work on those "side handles" as I call them, because their ain't nothing to "love" about them bad boys...that is just my take. Now that I am back home I am realizing that I don't have much in the house to eat, so I guess I will get that taken care of this weekend.

Hey Stick... Glad you made it back from your conference and right back into the exercise routine. I hate, hate, hate conferences that are boring. Sometimes I sign up for them when I need a break from the regular school day. :laugh: My district pays the registration, arranges for my sub, and I usually go with a friend or two. Last year was the best ever... we drove 90 minutes to get there, and it was CANCELED. There were four of us, so we went out to breakfast and then did some Christmas shopping. I mean, we couldn't help it if it was canceled, right? :D

I don't count alcoholic beverages, either, since I rarely have mixed drinks. I usually drink Miller Lite anyways, and it's right around 95 calories per bottle. I don't know about the wine. It makes me sleepy as all get out, so I avoid it.

Yes, conferences can be the pits. The last one I went to in July wasn't bad at all, but this one the other day was just yucky. I usually go because I am new at this part-time job and I need the training, plus they pay for all the expenses/hotel and cut me a check for my meals, so why not? I get paid to go there and they pay my mileage...so all in all it is not a bad deal.

Thus far, today has been a good day. I did well with my calories, water intake, and of course my exercise. I am very pleased with myself. I went to mass this evening and stopped by Subway on the way home. My family invited me to dinner, but I knew that I didn't need to go. The food there is great, but it is not what I need, especially since I am up on my weight this week. I am happy with that decision. It showed some discipline that I have been lacking lately. But geeze...they have great onion rings...but I digress...that is not important.

I didn't make it to the store today, so I guess I will go tomorrow. Well, I take that back I might go later on tonight. It is a 24 hour store, so who says you have to go in the daytime...right?

WOW 70 mins on the elliptical I'm jealous!! I'm going to have to start slow and work my way up. I love my elliptical and definetly say go for it. I know there are things at the gym that are "better" than you can get at home but its really nice to have one at home. You have such a zest for excersize keep it going and send some to me lol. I need that back I had it at one time. if it makes ya feel any better I need to go to the grocery store too. Hope you make it there soon.
LMJ

Well LMJ, the plan is to make it to the store TODAY. Actually, I have to. I really don't have any other choice, I am down to pretty much nothing my cabinets and frig. I don't have a whole lot planned for the day. I usually take Sundays to prepare for the week at work. I have a couple things to do, but nothing major. I need to do some things on the computer, maybe wash a few loads, go to the store, and probably just curl up and watch some Lifetime until this evening. Our little gym is closed on Sundays, so I guess I will go workout in the neighborhood or get on my TM.

I did make it to the store today and picked up a couple of things for the week. I like to get grocery shopping done on the weekends because I really hate going during the week. I don't mind stopping to pick up a few things, but I hate to have to do a whole basketful of shopping after I get off of work when the stores are crowded...talk about 5:00 traffic.

With my groceries, I invited my family over for some dinner. I made a huge salad. I had enough to send my sister home with some and make some for my lunch tomorrow. The salad had lettuce (ofcourse), boiled eggs (white only), red onions, bell pepper, carrots, radish, raw broccoli, raw cauliflower, fat free shredded cheese, tomatos, raisins (few), croutons (few), sliced chicken breast, and light done right salad dressing (ranch). I guess it was like a huge chef salad. I love to have as many raw veggies as possible, plus the colors are beautiful once all tossed together. I think it turned out good. I guess my mom thinks that you can't go wrong making a salad because any other time it is like pulling teeth to get her to come over for dinner.

Well, I have a quite a bit of dishes to do and some laundry waiting on me, so I am off for now.

Well, I just got off the TM...I must admit that I hate the treadmill. I literally had to drag myself into my little workout room and make myself get on it. I don't mind the TM at the gym, but at home it is just so boring. I tried to find something on tv, but that didn't work, so I only managed to do 40 minutes, but something is better than nothing right? I burned about 330 calories walking and running. I must say that this was a pretty powerful walk/run. I guess I knew that I would not make it 60 minutes, so I pushed myself real hard for the 40 minutes that I did do. Well, after all that complaining, I do feel pretty good. I have a couple more things to do before bed, but I should sleep/rest well tonight. Until next time...

Good for you!! 40 mins. on the treadmill is awesome! How often do you get to the gym versus working out at home? Keep up the good work your doing great! I know its so hard to start doing something you know will be boring then when its done its like ahh that wasn't so bad was it? lol. I used to have my elliptical in the living room so I could watch tv but had to move it cause we got a sectional and now I'm stuck with listening to music which is ok of course. Ohh...sorry Kelly I'm rambling in YOUR journal lol. Have a wonderful day!

LMJ

LMJ - Ramble in my journal all you want. I know that sometimes I tend to go on and on in yours. I have to stop and think..."wait...Kelly...this isn't your journal!!" It is cool though, I enjoy reading other stuff posted in my journal because I don't want to read my own writing over and over...lol. I already know what I think. I want to read something else.

I usually only have to get on the TM at home on Sundays because I our little gym in town is closed on Sundays. When the gym is closed, I usually walk/run in the neighborhood or go to the local high school stadium, but the weather was yucky yesterday so I sucked it up and got on the TM. Other than Sunday, I usually go to the gym 5-6 times a week. I try to go everyday, unless I have had an incredibly long day at work, then I just say forget it...as a matter of fact, I am feeling that way today. Mondays are always hard on me. I don't sleep very well on Sunday nights...I can never fall asleep.

Well, I guess I will get back to work. This day is dragging on forever...almost 4:00, so I should be okay.

Made it to the gym tonight...and I mean barely. I was not feeling it at all. I got off of worked and was drained. I came home and crashed for a little while which didn't make things any better. By the time I peeled myself off the couch to go to the gym it was already after 7. Today was not the greatest day, afterall. I thought it started off okay, but it didn't end too well. My food choices were horrible, but luckily I did go to the gym...guilt, I guess. I managed to do 70 minutes on the eliptical machine and burned about 1000 calories. That was probably the only positive thing that took place today. Sometimes, I feel like I am losing my focus. I have been doing this for a while, and sometimes I so easily fall back into my snacking habits. I have come to far to fall back into those habits. I have got to get my game face back on and get my head back in the game. Well, tomorrow is another day, and I am determined to make it better than today.

Well, today was a much better day than yesterday. I guess because I made my mind up that it was going to be. My discipline was right on point. I did not slip once with the munching. I know that it is okay to slip every once in awhile, but right now I can't afford any slips. I have been getting lax with my slipping, so I need to get my focus back on disciplining myself.

It is late afternoon and I am right where I want to be with my calories and my water. I still have plenty more water intake to get in because I have to go the gym which will equal about three more bottles. I am attempting to go to the gym in a little while because I want to get it over with and get to bed earlier than last night. Besides, if I don't go now I will probably crash and then have to really drag myself to the gym in a bad mood. I DON'T WANT THAT. Well, I guess if I am going to go I better get off here.

Made it to the gym and got in 55 minutes of cardio between the bike and the elliptical machine. I also worked a little bit on toning for legs, tummy, and sides. I would rate my workout about a 7 out of a 10...it was pretty good, but could of been better...at least I went, right?

I stopped by to see them family on the way home and they were eating...as usual. They had just went to get burgers and fries and whatnot. I was really tempted to steal a fry from my niece, but I held my own. I was hungry so I swung by Subway on the way home. A much healthier choice. Very happy with that decision.

Well, I am off to take care of some things before bed. I am still attempting to get to bed early tonight. I need more sleep.

Well, I didn't log on yesterday, but things are going well with me. I have had two fairly positive days. I did not go to the gym yesterday, but did not feel guilty about it. Usually, I think it is the end of the world if I don't go, but yesterday it was cool. I had a couple things on my plate that I needed to handle, so I got them done and didn't make it to the gym.

Today I am planning a trip to the gym a little later, I might go cook some dinner tonight, so my gym trip will be a little later. I am planning to go though.

Today was a rather properous day for me. I actually got a lot accomplished and am pleased with myself at this night's end. I went to work and got off early today, which is always good. I went to visit my family after work instead of coming home and crashing. Once I did make it home this afternoon, I prepared dinner and lunch for tomorrow and shot straight to the gym before I could get lazy.

At the gym, I really made some accomplishments on my workout. I did cardio...of course. I did the elliptical machine for 45 minutes and the TM for 15 minutes...walking/running. On the run I really decreased my time in the mile today. I also worked on my tummy. I got my crunches up to 150 today and really pushed it on the weights on the crunch machine. I worked on my arms and shoulders, upping the weights 10 pds more than usual. I am already beginning to see some slight definition...dare I say '"muscle"...in my shoulders and arms. I must admit that I am impressed.

That's why I like weight lifting so much. I always thought of it as a guy thing, but results seem to appear so much faster than just cardio. Aren't you glad now that you didn't wait until you hit your goal to start lifting? It's such a good reinforcement to see improvement.

I hope you have a long, relaxing weekend. :)

Teacher81 - Yes, I am very glad I started the toning. I feel good about that decision, and thanks for that advise. I am starting to see some sculpting progress where I didn't know there would be.

Well, I just got in not too long ago and am kinda wipped, plus I have an early day tomorrow. Today, overall, was good. I had some errands to run, went to work for a little while, hair appt, and that is about it. My calorie intake was good, water intake kinda sucked, though. Well, I am off for the night. Until next time...

Let me start by saying that I am trying to make this day as properous as possible. I slept in late this morning because I was tired from last night...went out...but it is not worth going into. I woke this morning and got a lot of things going in terms of cleaning, laundry, and what not. I am just now sitting down to have something to eat.

Yesterday was incredibly busy and I had a lot going on. I am glad that I finally took care of those things. I really didn't want to keep putting them off and didn't want to fret over them over this long and wonderful weekend. I didn't get in any exercise yesterday...other than dancing last night...does that count? I am sure that I burned some calories. I am going to attempt to get on the TM some time today, but as you know...I HATE THAT THING. I may go rent a DVD to put on to watch while I workout. You see how much I have to do just to get my tail on the TM. It is soooooooooo boring. Maybe I will wait til it cools off and go in the neighborhood.

I have been giving a lot of thought to my life lately and what I want out of life. My weight and health are about the only thing that is going great for me right now, so I have really been thinking about other areas in my life that need to be adjusted in order to be completely healthy. There are some unhealthy relationships and my work environment that I am really not too happy about. I recently, over the last couple of days realized that there are some changes that I need to do on my end to make these things healthier. So that is a new goal that I have set for myself, and probably the hardest goal to attain, but "the time has come".

Well, I think that after all your hard work with eating right and exercising you've got what it takes to make those other changes in your life as well. I don't know you......but I'm proud of you. Go gettem girl!!

Cheers
Mary

Thank you, Mary. I really needed to hear that vote of confidence from someone. I appreciate it.

Well, I started this holiday in a rather good mood. By the time I got up, I ended up getting a lot done before heading to my mom's for Labor Day festivities. I completed a lot of things online that I had been putting off, straightened my house up, and even got a chance to get in a quick workout.

I did a little over 30 minutes on the TM and worked up a real good sweat. I burned about 250 calories and kicked up my pace to about a 4.2. That is probably the fastest I've gone on my TM. I am learning that each TM is different. I guess it depends on what kind it is. 4.2 seems so slow compared to the TM at the gym where I can get about a 4.7.

I wanted to get in my workout early and if I have time get in another one tonight. I am supposed to have company over this evening, so just in case I don't get to workout again, at least I did a little something already today. I had to do something. I have not had any real exercise in a couple days. I was beginning to get a little down about that, so this little exercise this morning kinda helped me to put some pep back in my step.

My mom had a BBQ at her house for Labor Day, and she was great enough to buy some things that she knew I would like. I even have enough for leftovers. She fixed me some BBQ extra lean turkey burgers, some chicken breast, small boneless pork loins, some grilled corn on the cob and some zucchini. I have plenty to last me for the week. Of course, I didn't eat all of that today. I stayed away from all the other trimmings that the family had...potato salad and ribs and what not. It is only around 5:00, but so far, I have done well with my calories and am impressed with my discipline.

Sounds like you have had a great Labor Day!

I read your previous post, about making changes in your life to be a happier person and a healthier one as well. It's interesting; they always say anorexia strikes people who crave more control in their lives because their weight is something they can control. Or course, I know you're not anorexic, but could it be that you have been so motivated to make the weight loss-type changes because it is easier than the other changes? You have shown a great deal of discipline, though, and you don't work in an easy field, so you're obviously not a wimp. I'm confident that you will do whatever it is that is necessary to be happier.

I think many of us have been there, too. I know what you mean. Good luck. :)

"Or course, I know you're not anorexic, but could it be that you have been so motivated to make the weight loss-type changes because it is easier than the other changes?"

I don't know how much easier it has been for me than the average person, because I don't believe that losing weight has been all that easy nor more managable than anything else that I need to tackle. Most of the changes that I have found necessary have really just peaked their ugly head in the last few days/weeks, and that is what has brought me to my conclusions. Besides that, a lot of it has just been my own laziness with those tasks and not being organized, but I am ready now, and yeah it will be hard, but I honestly don't believe that it will be anything compared to the complete body overhaul that I have done to myself. I appreciate the advice. I will keep you posted on how things are going.

Oops. I didn't mean that your weight loss was easier than it is for other people. I should have been more clear. What I meant was, that is something that involves only you, so if there are family/friend issues, those are sometimes more prickly, because you have no choice but to involve others, and are therefore more difficult. I wasn't trying to minimize your accomplishments by saying you've had too easy a time. You should definitely be proud, girl! You've done an amazing job.

Teach - no problem, girl. I knew that you didn't mean anything negative by it. I just quite couldn't figure out where you were coming from, so I guess I got confused...oops. I really do appreciate you reading and checking my journal. It is always good to see someone else's posts other than your own, so really...thanks. Drop in and post anytime you like...I might not always understand it the first time I read it, but i'll get there. Thanks for clarifying it for me. Gotcha now...and yes they are family/friend/relationship issues (as well as some work related things...way prickly...especially when that work pays the bills), and those are more prickly, especially when it comes to relationships that have just become old habits. Friendships and relationships shouldn't be something that we do out of habit, or because it is what we've always done, or because it is much easier to be around those people than to be alone or find some new people. That is a horrible way to state that, but I have found myself doing and being around some people that is out of habit, not because we have anything in common, nor do we have a good time anymore. It is not all about me either. I don't believe that it is right to the other person that I pretend to be comfortable with something that I am not. It is a hard thing, but I am going to make valid attempts to fix these unhealthy aspects of my life. (OKAY DID THAT MAKE ANY SENSE AT ALL??)

Other than being a bum all day and doing some reading and laundry, I did manage to go to the gym and had a surprisingly good workout. I did 60 min. on the elliptical and worked on toning for abs and arms. I worked up a real good sweat and burned quite a few calories. On the way home I swung by Subway grabbed some dinner and am ready for bed. I have had the last couple of days to sleep in, and I have a feeling that I am going to be a hard person get up in the morning for work, but my workout tonight should help me get some good zzzzzzzzz's.

Out of curiousity I stepped on the scale tonight. I don't know why because I never weigh during the week. I only weigh on Sundays and that is the only weight that I count. Even though I don't get to count this weight...drum roll, please...I am at 160.5!!! Completely blew my mind. I just hope I can stay there til Sunday so that I can move my ticker and change the info on my profile. I can't believe I am that close to my goal. Okay, everyone...keep your fingers crossed for me. I really want to move that ticker.

Well, waking up this morning for work was not as bad as I thought it would be. I am not tired, but I am not feeling well. My stomach is seriously killing me. I came to work, but honestly don't know that I will make it thru. It feels like my stomach is in one big, huge, gigantic knot. I thought it may have been from pushing it on my stomach workout at the gym, but now that I think about it, I remember my stomach beginning to ache before I did the workout yesterday. I don't know, but I hope it loosens up.

QUESTION...hopefully someone can help.

Since I lost weight, I have also lost a cup size...I am almost in an A from a C. I know I can't magically make them bigger, but is there any toning/weights that are geared at making breast look firmer or less saggy? I would like to perk up the little that I have left. Any suggestions, comments...anything at all? Has anyone else experienced this?

Hey girl! AH... I was a D-cup when I was around 175-180lbs, and since then I am a medium B-cup. I would love to be a full C-cup. (There has been talk about possible breast enlargement- but we will see). However.... there is an exercise at the gym, that works your "pectoral" muscles. It's the butterfly (or maybe that's just what people call it). But your arms are out to your side and you slowly bring them together, focusing on that muscle. It DEFINETLY helps. I would recommend trying that. I'm not too sure of any other chest exercises, other than the chest press. Lying on a bench with free weights and pushing your arms up right in front of you and slowly down again. I hope I helped ya at least a little bit.

CONGRATS on 160.5... am I just imagining things.. or does that put you .5lb away from the GOAL weight!?!

:cheer: :cheer:

Girl,yes it if holds up til Sunday then I will be .5 pds away from my goal. I then may move my goal down to 155. I have not decided yet. I continue to set mini-goals for myself. First, it was 175, then 165, then 160...I may go just a little more. Okay, so this butterfly movement...am I doing inward curl thingys...like bending at the elbows, or am I just doing one solid movement without bending at the elbows. I think I know what you are talking about, but am I standing up straight or kind bent over? I would ask the guy at the gym, but I don't want to be like "hey what exercise do I do to make my boobs perky?" I'll try and find a lady or a guy friend I am cool with and see what they say also. Thanks, FSUgirl.

I don't think there are any excercises to perk the ladies up....there are things you can do to strengthen your pecs which I believe are behind ( once upon a time my pecs were behind but I'm pretty sure they are above now) the girls but the actual girls are fatty tissue.

I think that a shopping trip is in order to perk the girls up.....a couple of nice new bra's with built in perkiness should do the trick. :)

Hope you don't mind me having some fun here.........cheers
Mary

Ah, the cruelty of weight loss.... the boobs always go first!

I have the same issue. Mine are roughly the same size as before but have lost some fullness. That pectoral butterfly machine will help. Your boobs won't change much, but if the muscles underneath are defined, they will help keep the boobs afloat.

I feel like I look thinner with smaller boobs, though. It's not all bad. :)

I WAS AFRAID OF THIS NEWS!!! I had lost weight before, but nothing like this. I had not realized how small they were actually getting. I definitely notice the pecs underneath and my breast have kinda just made way for them.

Mary - Thanks, I knew that new bras with perk were going to end up being on the menu. I bought a real pretty one not too long ago...but...dum, dum, dum, the dang thing is two big now. So, yes I will be buying new (smaller) bras with some perk. Thanks. I guess one good thing is, the smaller they are, sometimes they are cheaper. At least for me. I found one in a department store not too long ago and it was only $5.99...it may have been on clearance, but what the hey, it was still a good bra for a good price.

Teach - I guess that is one way of looking at it. "Thinner with smaller boobs." I can definitely see that as being a justifiable reason as to why the ladies said "so long, sucker." I guess I shouldn't complain because the shrinkage is do to a good, healthy reason...losing weight. It could be worse, so I should appreciate the little that I have left. Thanks. It is just weird watching them change in fullness and size...and kinda just shrink. WEIRD!!

Well, due to the pain that decided to pitch a tent and camp out in my stomach all day, I did not go to the gym. I am actually not going to do anything. I just ate a sandwhich not too long ago an that is it for the day. Luckily I couldn't eat a whole lot today, so I am not tripping on missing the exercise. I really feel miserable due to the stomach ache. I think it is a toss up between a huge cramp and maybe a muscle spasm or something. The thing is I don't know where it came from and how long it is planning on taking up residence in my abdomen. I came home and took a nap, got up and made a sandwich. I think I will take the dog out, clean my kitchen, and go back to bed. Have a good night, everyone. Until next time.

Hey there!

Thought I'd stop in and see your progress. My favorite thing about this forum is the inspiration I get from seeing others' successes, and you are one of them! Looks like you are very close to your next goal, keep up the great effort!

Shout4 - Thanks for the support. That is one thing that I love about this site...the support. It is always great to see someone else has written you a little something in your journal. It really makes you feel like you are not all alone. Thank you.

WELL, THANK GOD IT IS FRIDAY. Not that it has been a terrible week...aside from my tummy. I am just glad the weekend is coming up. I have been doing pretty good lately. I have not worked out since Tuesday, but that is fine because I am learning that I do not have to exercise all 7 days of a week. I used to feel incredibly bad when I didn't exercise, but you know what things come up and people get sick and sometimes, you just can't exercise...SO WHAT!! Man, I tell you I am a work in progress. I probably won't exercise today either...at least cardio. I may work on some toning this afternoon, but that is about it. I will probably get back to the cardio in the morning...hit the gym kinda early because I want to get some shopping in.

Speaking of shopping, I don't know where everyone is from, but New York & Co. (formerly Lerner) has this thing called City Cash and it went into effect yesterday. Talk about thrilled. I am so ready to use mine...I actually do need a few things this time, I am not just blowing money. So yeah, I am ready to shop. What I need to be buying is some dang bras, but I'll get there.

As for my tummy, I am attributing the muscle cramping to a spider bite. I found that out on WebMD. I do have a spider bite on my arm...I think. I am going to go to the Dr. soon to make sure. Plus, I don't want my arm to fall off. I have been bitten before and it looked nothing like what I have on my arm now, but I had a nurse at work look at it and she said it was a bite and it looked this way cause it was already infected. So once she told me that, ofcourse I went and tried to diagnose myself on WebMD...I'm going to go to the Dr. though. It actually looks a little better this morning.

Well, since I am at work, I guess I will get some done. Until later...

Just completed some weight training on my arms. It wasn't much, but I am surely feeling the burn. I used some free weights I had around the house. They were only 3 pds. but I did quite a few reps different ways. I am feeling it. I need to try and build some muscle or tone in what is sagging from the weightloss. I figure it can't really hurt, I might as well try.
Well, I am off to do a little shopping and grab some dinner. I already looked up on calorieking.com what I am going to eat before I go to the restaurant. That way I won't screw up my calories. It really helps if you plan ahead what you are going to eat when going out. This way you can kinda have an idea of what menu items would put you over the top and what won't. For instance, I am planning on going to the Olive Garden, so I looked it up, looked up the different menu items, and saw how much each breadstick is and what entree I can having without blowing my calorie count. It seems to work for me, just thought I would pass that on.

Just had to post real quick...I went shopping tonight after work and bought 2 pairs of slacks, a belt, and purse and wallet. I used my city cash and saved a bunch. I am all about savings, but the point is that the slacks were a SIZE 8 and the belt was a SMALL. I have never in my life been an 8. The smallest size I ever remember was a ten and that was busting at the seems. The words on this post cannot explain how I am feeling right now. I never would have even imagined something of this magnitude happening to me. Well, I am off to a very good nights rest. Until next time...

So far this has been a great and busy weekend. I weighed myself this morning and I have officially hit my mark. I am 158!!!! HOORAY. I finally get to move my ticker. I am going to set another mini goal to get to 153 to make it an even 50 pounds lost.

Yesterday morning I got to hit the gym again. I was really dreading it since I had not been since Tuesday, but I am glad that I went. I did 35 minutes on the bike and 30 minutes on the elliptical machine. I burned roughly 600 calories. I also did some toning for the tummy and arms. I also tried to do some work with the machines to improve my chest muscles. Maybe I can build a little something in that upper region to bring the "girls" some fullness again.

After the gym, I hit the mall again and finished using my city cash. I got 5 more shirts, three belts, and 2 new bras. Three of the shirts I ended up buying were out of Macy's in the JUNIORS section. Now, that is unbelievable. I don't think I've ever worn anything in the juniors section...even when I was that age. I was in desperate need of push up bras. My "gals" need all the help they can get. I am still managing to wear a B cup, but barely. I really don't want to buy an A, but I may just have to.

Well, I have quite a few things planned for today, so I better get moving. I just returned from church, and realized how much I need to do around the house. It seems like the weekend just goes by so fast. I will post more later.

Well, today turned out to be a pretty productive day. I cleaned the house...including vacuuming, doing some laundry and cooking. I cooked some spaghetti hamburger helper with extra lean turkey meat. It turned out better than I expected. It looked down right gross when I was cooking it. I also got a chance to get some work done for my part-time job. I managed to do two hours of community research for the agency...$$$. After shopping this weekend and taking my niece and her friends to a concert later this month for her birthday, I could use the $.

Since I went shopping, I decided to do some more major overhaul on my closet. I gave my sister 2 bags of clothes. She was so excited, and I was glad to see her light up. She needs the clothes, anyway. She wears a uniform to work, so she hardly ever takes time to shop for herself and says that she doesn't know what to buy anyway. I was glad to help. There is no point in keeping clothes that I won't be wearing, especially when they are in good shape and someone needs them.

Well, tonight will be an early night. I still need to run one more errand in town, so I better get going. Until next time...

All is well on my end...just trying to wake up a little. I swear the AM comes so dang fast, no matter how early to get to bed the night before. I have already had a couple of "pissed off" moments at work this morning...and I just got here a few minutes ago. I just keep bumping into the wrong people. Oh well, I am not going to let it be one of those days. I have to make the decision not to let people steal the joy that lives within. I have a hard enough time trying to keep myself peaceful w/o anyone else trying to steal my little joy.

Well, I have a fairly busy day ahead of me, so I better get to work. I will check back in throughout the day.

Hey Kelly--

Wow!! Wanna come over and clean my house next? It's good exercise, you know..... :laugh:

How fun for both you and your sister that you were able to clean out your closet. Must feel like progress. And hey, free clothes.... that's a win-win situation, I'd say.


CONGRATS! I just looked down a little farther to your old posts from the weekdn and saw that you are officially at your goal. Awesome! You deserve it, because you sure work hard at it. :dn :jn :dn :jn

Teach--thanks so much. I have been working hard and at times it is very frustrating, but it is so worth it. I moved my goal again to make it an even 50 pds. so I am slowly getting there. Thanks again.

Today was a fairly busy day. I am actually really busy at work...can you believe it?? It is time to plan a resource fair for the inmates and that is always extremely stressful. Kinda hard to convince agencies to come to a prison all day and speak to incarcerated females. I also had a meeting this afternoon for my part-time job to do a little awareness for our agency in the community. After that meeting I went straight to the gym. I had a good workout and it burned off some of the "yuck" from the day. You know the stress, tension, and whatnot. I also ran into some friends at the gym and that was fun.

I did really well water wise and calorie wise today. I also burned about 800 calories at the gym. I did an hour of cardio...elliptical...and then worked on the weights. One of my friends has been giving me pointers on free weights and reps, and he just so happened to be at the gym tonight, so that made for interesting exercise...he made sure I was doing what he had been telling me to do.

Well, I just finished leftovers from Sunday and am about to tie up the rest of the lose ends of my life before bed. I am planning to actually get up early in the AM and be to work early...we'll see how that goes, especially if I don't make it to bed until after 11 or 12...4 AM comes fast.

Well, my ultimate goal this AM was to wake up early and make it in to work 30 minutes early, and I did. I always complain the night before about having to get up early the next morning, but I know that I am capable of doing it, if I set my mind...and alarm clock to it.

Just a little re-cap from last night...I got off from work, did some running around for my part-time job, then some work from home. I can say that I am truely blessed to have this part-time job. No one wants to have to work two jobs, but this is truely a dang good job to have, and the agency is awesome. After work, I hit the gym for a real good workout. I was so sweaty when I left that I didn't want to go into Subway because my clothes were soaked, and it looked like I didn't make it to the bathroom on time. I did about an hour of cardio on the elliptical and then worked on toning for my stomach, back, chest, and legs. I had slacked on toning my back for a while, but I thought about it last night and said "I better get back on that part of toning." Back toning had kinda slipped thru the cracks a little and had taken a back burner...better yet, I took it off the stove all together. I also did some work on the butterfly machine as I call it, as some of you suggested. Hopefully I will see a little improvement. Don't get me wrong, I am not expecting a miracle...that's what I bought the bras for...lol.

Well, since I don't work my full-time job on Fridays, today is my Friday and I am excited. I am ready for the weekend and ready to sleep in past 4 AM. It seems like it kills me to work four straight days. I am such a complainer. I need to work on that. Anywho I am at work now, and I guess I better actually get some done. I will check in periodically.

Hey Kelly! Sounds like you are busy, busy, busy! But, also sounds like your doing great. You have such enthusiam with your workouts!! Send some my way lol. Keep up the good work and you'll get all the toning you need.

Just wanted to pop in and say hi and thank you for all your support during my time of need!

LMJ

Hi Kelly
About time i come and say. Hi in your journal after all the support your giving me. You must be single to hold on to full time and part time job. Did that myself when I was young. Now takes my all to do a summer job. LOL. But of course I'm the owner so punch many many hours.
You are doing great reaching goal and all. Keep it up only 8 lbs to go to goal. Thank you again for stopping by and all the chats.

LMJ-thanks for stopping by. And no thanks necessary for the support. I would want someone to do the same for me during a stressful and unfortunate time. I hope things are getting back into a routine for you and your family.

Boblin-thanks to you also for stopping in. Yeah, I am single...and fairly young. I live alone with my dog, so it is a little bit easier to have two jobs, and do so much running around because I don't have that much responsibility. I can't imagine doing it if I had a family because I am sure that all my energy would go to them. Thanks again for stopping in...come back soon, ya hear!...lol (Decided to throw in a little Beverly Hillbillies)

This day started off rather late today. I slept in until about 10. I only woke up then because my sister had called to chit chat. I went out for a little while last night and didn't arrive home until late, so I guess that justifies why I needed the extra hours of sleep this AM.

I made it to the gym today...about 1:00. I had a real good workout. I did cardio for 65 minutes...bike and elliptical machine. I also worked on my toning with arms, chest, and tummy. I don't believe my gym's air was working today because I was sweating as if I were working out in 100 degree weather outside. I usually work up a good sweat, but nothing like what happened today. Luckily I had on dark colored shorts, so it didn't really reveal that "peed on yourself" look.

Once I left the gym, I went to the grocery store (yes...all sweaty and funky) and did good there as well. I wasn't in there very long because I think people were just moving out of my way and letting me get what I needed and go. You think it had anything to do with me dripping sweat and not smelling so great...lol? HEB was having a pretty good sale this week, lots of bargains. I also made good decisions while in the store and didn't buy stuff I knew I didn't need.

One of my most favorite things about losing weight, other than feeling better bout myself, is that I no longer have all out wars with the clothes in my closet anymore. It is weird how you can throw anything together in the morning and feel perfectly great about it because you feel better about your body as a whole. I no longer have to spend additional time to try and find something to wear...that fits, or wonder if half way through the day the seat in my pants is going to give out on me. I can remember times when I would put on clothes for work in the morning and the outfit not look right because the pants were too tight. Well, I would change shirts five times in an attempt to make it look good, failing to acknowledge that the DAMN PANTS ARE TOO TIGHT...I can laugh now, but those were not the best of times. At least we live and learn.

This morning started off great. Ofcourse I weighed myself...the first thing I do every Sunday morning. I am proud to announce that I am down 1.5 pds from last week. I am at 156...just a few pds. away from my goal. That is just unbelievable. I cannot believe that I have lost weight two weeks in a row. That has not happened since I first began losing weight. It seems like the lower my weight gets, the harder it is to lose more weight.

I finished up a rather successful and prosperous day. I did everything that I planned to get done, even though, once again, I didn't get up until almost ten this morning. I got some work done from home for my PT job, ran some errands, went to the store, did another load of laundry, cooked, worked out, and am about to clean the kitchen before hitting the bed. I guess it seems like a lot, but it is not that bad when you live alone, you kinda just do things at your own pace.

I dreaded getting on the TM tonight, but I was determined to start my week off right...and for me, I consider the week to begin on Sunday. I managed to do a little over 50 minutes walking/little running and burned 400 calories. Anyone whoever reads my journals knows that working out on the TM is extremely hard for me. I did find a couple things to watch on TV that kept me occupied for the time, so it was not that bad. I am just glad that it is over. It's weird how I don't have that much of a problem using the TM in the gym, but at home it is just totally different. Well, I am off...still have one more task before bed. C-ya!!

Why can't you believe you've lost so much weight? You have been doing everything right. You deserve to have those pounds fall right off! :)

Did I read that correctly? You get to bed at 11 or 12 and get up at 4 AM? Be careful, dear! I had a stretch of about six months where I did that, and my body reacted none too kindly. I ended up hospitalized... just be careful and take care of yourself. Besides, it has been proven that people who sleep enough at night lose more weight and keep it off for longer!

Keep up the fabulous work, lady, and all those prosperous days.

Teach - Yep, that is correct. I usually doze off around 11/11:30, but sometimes earlier. If I am lucky enough, sometimes I can actually get in the bed around 9:30, but my body still doesn't calm down until after 10, but it feels good to lay and relax knowing that the day is over. I have been doing it for a while now. I have to be to work at 6, so I try to get up by 4/4:15. I think my body would go into shock if I got more sleep than that. I guess because I am so used to it now. It helps that I workout so much because it allows me to get fully rested at night. There are some mornings when I am just not feeling it and I do not hesitate to call in. Doing this for almost 3 years and having two jobs the majority of the time, I know when my body and mind are stretched to the max and I just have to take some time to myself. I will continue to be careful and pay close attention to my body. Thanks for stopping in and thanks for the encouragement.

I didn't workout as much as I would have liked today. I planned to go to the gym, but it was closed. It is family owned and the sign said that there was a family emergency and they would be open tomorrow. I know the people fairly well, so I hope that everything is alright. Since I was all geared up to exercise, I went down to my moms and did some running and walking in the neighborhood. I only got in about 30 minutes...15 walking/15 running because dark came upon me fast. When I went back to my moms I did some light weightlifting on my arms and did some crunches. I don't feel like I worked out enough, but something is better than nothing...right?

Work was not bad for a Monday, and Mondays are usually my cranky days. I guess because I have had fun and relaxed over the weekend, I don't want to go back to work. I was busy most of the day and still left feeling like I didn't get much accomplished. Well, the good thing about my job is that is definitely not a take home job and when I leave...I LEAVE. Well, I just nuked my dinner, so I better get to it. C-ya!!

Hi Stickntoit
Hey your almost at goal. Then what. Whatcha gonna do. Hope your still here to give support to those of us still trying. I know you will. Take care now.

Boblin - ME...LEAVE...NEVER!! DT has become like an internet family for me. I think that I will need this site more in the maintaining phases than I did in the losing phases. It is hard and frustrating at times to lose weight, but for me, losing was probably the easy part...keeping it off will be the hard part. I will definitely be here for everyone, just as I hope you all will continue to be here for me. Once I am done losing, I still have lots of work to do in the toning department and the maintaining. I will definitely still be here.

Yesterday was such a good workout day. I went to the gym and started on the TM for 25 minutes at a rather quick pace with an incline. I also did some running for about 11 minutes. I burned a total of 400 calories on that. Next, I moved on to the elliptical machine (no surprise, there) and did about 26 minutes to burn 400 calories. I got my resistance up a ten at some points. Afterwards, I worked on toning...tummy, arms, and legs. One of my friends was there and he hung around after his workout to help me with the weights and give me some pointers. He also had me push my crunches (front and both sides) up to 5 set of 15 each way, instead of the usual 5 of 10. I think I ended up 225 done. It was nice of him to hang around because he had already been there for an hour before I got there and I had to do cardio before I got to the weights. Overall, it was a good night. I ended up at Subway for dinner because it was already later than I planned on it being. I could eat Subway everyday of my life...I don't, but I could.

This morning I stopped and got apple fritters for my co-workers and brought them to work. I really had a sweet tooth, and I wanted to waste my calories on something worth it, so that is what I had...along with coffee...for breakfast. I am finally realizing that I don't have to feel guilty every time I eat something that is not healthy. Like the 1/2 of an apple fritter. I have not had one of those in probably 4 months, so it is not like I sold my soul to the devil, I just treated myself...feels good. Besides, I work pretty damn hard on the exercise and I will probably burn those calories off this afternoon, anyway. Well, I am off to get some work done. I will check in later.

Tonight was a workout to beat all workouts. I did the elliptical machine for 70 minutes, then did some toning. I increased my weight on the toning with the help of a friend who works out there now. He really pushed me tonight on my weights and gave me some tips. I stayed in the gym for over two hours. I did cardio, crunches, arms, legs, and calves. It was great. I should sleep really well after a shower.

I also got a co-worker to meet me at the gym today to see how she liked it. She went on a pass and I hope she decides to come again. It was great to exercise with someone tonight, other than doing it by myself or reading a magazine. The time flew by so fast. She had been asking me for some help. I don't consider myself an expert, by any means, so I really didn't want to throw my opinions around just because I have been losing weight, but she was really persistant. Well, she came to the gym and did the elliptical machine, bike, and TM. I am really proud of her. I am going to have to tell her at work tomorrow how excited I am for her. I know she must feel good also because she has been wanting to do something to lose some weight. Anyway, she worked up a real good sweat and kinda left the gym with a little more pep in her step. She did excellent for her first time.

Well, tomorrow is my last day at work for the week. I will be off until Monday. I do have to attend two meetings for my part time job on Friday, but that is not really work, but it won't be a day of jacking around. I also am taking my soon to be 12 niece to her very first concert with 3 of her friends Friday night. Hopefully all will go well. I am taking them by myself and just want us to have a good time and be safe. I am not a parent and get real nervous when I have other people's kids in my care, especially at a concert at night. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Well, I have a couple more things to do before I hit the sack. I will see everyone later. Best wishes until next time...

How nice of you to take your niece to the concert! I am sure that she will love it. I bet you are a "cool" aunt to her. :)

You sure seem to have this guy friend keep popping up at the gym while you're there... same guy, each time? Who doesn't mind hanging around, pushing you, giving you little pointers? Who just HAPPENS to be there at the same time?? Hmmm...... :laugh:

I know what you mean about the apple fritter. I have gotten to that point, too. I plan the extra calories into my day. The key is realizing that half of an apple fritter or a slice of birthday cake once in a while won't make you gain back all you lost. The problem occurs when you eat an apple fritter every day. Kudos for learning to "let go" a bit!

Have a great night. Time for bed for moi.

Teach - yea same guy this time. He works out with his friends doing weights, but once he is done and his friends leave...he always hangs around....hmmmmm...yea, sounds suspicious. No, but the other times it has been one of the other guys. Anyway, I have known them since high school and most of them are still in the area, so I bump into them every so often, but lately more often than not since we all go to the same gym in the same lil ole bitty town. This particular guy is a good person, but I don't think it's like that. I don't believe that there is any vibe there at all. Besides, I kinda have this thing about dating people from my home town...I DON'T. I can hang out with you and whatnot, but as far as "getting w/ ya"...not likely to happen. I hang out with "the opposite" more than I hang out with "the same". I only have like a handful of close girlfriends from college that I hang with on a regular, but I have always drifted toward my male friends. Don't know why. So, it is not uncommon to see me out with a guy or working out with a guy.

hey kelly, i thought it was about time i dropped into your journal to say hi since neither of us has much time to post in the other thread, you have done amazingly well consdidering the busy life you live. As you know, i also work two jobs, one finishing at 2in the morning, and often find irregular sleep patterns on weekends cause me to eat the wrong things, at the wrong times and most certainly in the wrong quantities, its so easy to do when youre short on time, but you seem to be handling it fantastically.so i just wanted to offer my support, keep up the good work :)

Hi Stickntoit
You sure like the gym and after those workouts your body won't even remember the 1/2 apple fritter. You need to do that once in awhile. You are doing wonderful. And so glad you will stay and support me and others after your at goal. Take care.

You're doing such a great job working out! And the right attitude :up: I'm glad you could get someone interested in losing weight too. Because we all want to lose the weight, but when we see it happen to someone we know, it can open eyes. Have FUN reaching the goal, I'll be around reading if not posting every now and then :)

Thanks for all the support. It really means a lot. Tonight will be a short post...I'm ready for bed. I have a rather long day tomorrow. I have 2 meetings back to back at my PT job and then off to the concert with 4 middle school pre-teens...SOUNDS LIKE FUN...and scary at the same time. I had a hair appt. today, so no exercise, but I think my body can take a days rest from the gym. I might attempt to get up and do a little walking in the morning before I begin my day. It might be a good way to start the day off. Anyway, off to take the dog and trash out. Thanks again, everyone. Keep it coming.

Well, the concert and the evening went over well last night, and most importantly I got everyone's child back home safely. I really think that they enjoyed themselves and that is what we were going for. The concert ended a little after 11 and then I took the girls to eat and they were all knocked out on the way home. It is funny how they like to believe they are so grown, but can't handle the night life. I was that way, too. It's cute. One minute they are chattering away, then the next it is like zzzzzzzz. Between the concert and the restaurant it was about a 25 minute drive and they were knocked out. They woke up long enough to go in and eat, but once we got back in the car and headed home they were sleep again. All their little heads were bobbling around in the back like bobble head dolls.

I just woke up not to long ago, so my trip to the gym won't come for about another hour. I haven't been in two days, so I definitely have to hit is hard today. I know I got in some exercise last night dancing, but it still isn't enough. Besides that, I was at my mom's yesterday waiting on my niece's friends to come so we could leave and I started nibbling on what she had cooked. For the life of me, I don't know why because I wasn't hungry...BAD ME!! That is an old habit that I have yet learned to completely shake. Sometimes I'm okay and other times I will find myself munching on stuff that I don't ordinarily want or need. Weird. Anyway got to prepare for the gym. C-ya!!

Beginning last night, I started feeling kinda "yuck" and it has carried over into today. I really hope this feeling passes because I have some things to do and places to go and I want to get to feeling better before I start on those things. I can't really explain it, but it is kinda like when you know that the day is just going to be one of those days. You really can't put your finger on exactly what is bothering you, but you just know that that something is. Well, I better get started on my day even though it is well into day. I didn't get up until after 10.

Not feeling great, but better. I managed to pull myself together to get some work done, eat, workout, get on the TM and wash my hair. I am attempting to make this day productive. I have to go help my niece with a school project, so maybe that will help me take my mind off my own issues.

Anway, I forced a little over 2 miles out of me on the TM earlier today and burned a couple hundred calories...not bad for a Sunday, I guess. Well, got to finish my lunch and head out. Later!!

Congrats on still getting that exercise in when you don't feel great. I've been sick the past 4 days and didnt go to the gym for two of them. I know how hard it can be because you don't feel your best. Take it easy for a day or two and workout when you feel better.

Thanks for the support, Carla393. As the night ends, I am doing a little better. Sorry to hear that you aren't feeling well. What exactly is it...a cold or something?

I went to help my niece with her project...it made me feel like I was back in school again. Anyway, we made some progress and kinda broke ground on the beginning phases of what is going to be a report on Belgium. We had to run to the store to get some materials and then I left her with some things I wanted her to do before I went back and helped her again. I didn't want her to think that she was slick enough to get me to do the whole thing.

Well, I still have a kitchen to clean, and I want to try and get some good rest tonight so I will be ready for the AM. I will c-ya tomorrow.

QUESTION...How do I create a link in my signature that links people to my journal? I have noticed it on a couple pages, and I want to have it on mine.

For a Monday, the day wasn't too bad. I stayed busy at work and the time went by fast. I thought I was catching up at work, and then I was doing some filing and realized that I still had some paperwork that I had overlooked. I guess that will be the first thing I do in the AM. I came home and did some PT work for my other job and got some info I really needed that I had been putting off. After taking a short nap, with my dog sleeping on my back, I went to the gym. I did 50 minutes on the eliptical machine and did a light workout on my legs. I didn't get as much done as I would have liked to because the gym was packed today and I had to run get my niece from an afterschool activity. I swear sometimes she acts like I am her mom, but it is cool...I love her to death. Well, still got a couple things to do before bed, so I am signing off for now. Until next time...

Decided to skip the gym today. I needed a little time to myself. I didn't waste my time either. Generally I would have went to sleep, but I decided to go to the store and cook dinner. Most of the time I don't have time to cook, except on the weekends. During the week, by the time I get off of work, catch a breather, and head to the gym there is no time to cook dinner once I get from the gym, so I did tonight. I also got two loads of laundry done and cleaned my dishwasher.

I did do a light workout on my legs tonight while watching television and worked on some crunches. I did some leg lifts, squats, and lunges using weights. I did a couple sets of 10 on each leg. It was better than nothing. I will hit the gym tomorrow, but it did feel good just to be at home this evening, which is something I am really never afforded the luxury of doing. Until next time...

Well, another day has come to an end...and progress wise I did all that I intended to do. I had an excellent day at work and completed all tasks up until next week. I even got all of my end of the month reports done and submitted them today. I guess that is because I am not going back to work until Monday. YIPPIE!! I am taking off tomorrow and I am always off on Fridays, so I will get to have a long weekend. That is music to my ears. I do have to go out of town on Friday for my PT job, but it is more like a social type thing so it will be better than sitting in the office. Work wise, things are great and the work week wrapped up beautifully, but other things are not so great...

On the flip side, I did hit the gym hard today. I did the elliptical for a little over an hour and burned over 800 calories. I also hit the weights for arms and worked on my tummy. After saying that, I feel like I am not doing enough. Lately I have been really hard on myself and not feeling very satisfied with anything that I do. Take today, for instance, I stayed at the gym for about an hour and a half worked up a real good sweat on cardio and weights. My water intake was excellent, compared to other days. With all that said I am pissed at myself because some how I ended up with almost 1800 calories today. Now that is not an everyday intake, so I shouldn't be mad, but honestly I am devastated. I feel like I failed today. I mean I burned over 800 and ate around 1800. Now to a normal person that would be okay, but for me...no, that is not acceptable. I sit here literally pissed because I ate over 1500 calories, despite how many I burned. Is that crazy or what? Am I right in thinking this way or am I trippin' over nothing? I feel like I am slipping lately and my discipline is not on point like it usually is. Is there a such thing as getting too serious about losing weight? I feel like I may be becoming borderline obsessive about losing these last 3 pds. What do you all think? Someone please respond. Anyway, enough rambling I think I need to hit the bed. I am going to attempt to get up and hit the gym in the AM before I start my day. Until next time...

Hi, Stickn2it:

Actually I think you are doing great. And it may be a while before those last 3 lbs. are gone forever. But you have done wonderfully in losing the weight you have lost, and it is understandable that you want to find yourself at goal.

The problem is that when you find yourself at goal, the effort will not be over. This weight-loss business is for life. Those of us at goal still fight the battle daily because we know that if we slip up we can very easily regain those lost lbs. They are just waiting somewhere to reattach themselves to us.

But one slip up in our eating program does not equal a disaster. It really doesn't. If you ate 1800 calories today, and you are aware of it, then you probably won't eat 1800 calories tomorrow. These things happen, and life goes on.

So enjoy your weekend off. Have fun. Eat a nice healthy mix of foods, get your exercise in, and drink enough water. And hopefully your feelings about the 1800 calories is just a minor glitch in your life.

Hi Stickntoit Looks good here at the home front. Listen to Jo Jo she is so very smart. Take care.

I'm on my way out, but I am just checking in with you! I do think that there is such as thing as being too concerned about losing weight, but it doesn't seem like you are that way. You have hit a plateau, but really, it hasn't been all that long. Some people get stuck for months. Don't sweat it. The weight will come off, it will!! It just never seems to happen as quickly as we want it to, right? :)

Have a great weekend! I have been lurking in your journal, and despite being swamped and not posting for awhile, you have been doing amazingly well. Don't lose sight of that!

JoThrive/Boblin- Thank you for the support. I understand what you are saying. I guess sleeping on it made me feel better. I am so afraid that I will start gaining again before I finish losing. Does that make sense? I know that it will take me a while to lose the last three pounds, but there's always the thought that I will pick up weight before I finally get to my goal. It is exhausting, but well worth it. Thanks for the help.

Teach - thanks for dropping in. How's everything with you? I hope that you have an enjoyable weekend.

I am so glad that it is Friday and I have the weekend. I am planning to do something tonight and have a couple friends over tomorrow. Tonight will probably just be something simple. I do want to get out of the house, though. I had my retreat today and I was supposed to be at the beach by 9 and overslept. I did not wake up until about 8:20. The retreat location was about an hour and half away. I didn't make it down there until around 11. Man, I was hauling ass. I couldn't believe I overslept. I knew that I was supposed to be somewhere, but I couldn't figure out where. I had a long night last night, so I guess it took a toll on me this morning.

Well, the AM started off great. I am having friends over this evening, so I got a start on my cleaning and laundry. I also went to the gym and by mom's house to get some paper goods to serve on. I like to entertain, but I am not about to do a butt load of dishes...lol.

I got a good workout at the gym doing cardio and weight toning. I burned about 700 calories, and did some toning for my legs, arms, and back. I moved on to doing some squats and I can already feel the burn. I know my legs will be killing me in the AM. Well, I have a lot left to do before this evening, so I got to get a move on. Until next time...

Well, I weighed this morning, as usual for a Sunday, and I am right around the same weight. I am not thrilled...I am maintaining, but at the same time I am not as mad as I thought I would be. I know that I can do this and it will happen. It is extremely frustrating, but it will happen. I know what I am doing that is right and I know when I am messing up. So now, I just have to quit those little mess ups, get my water intake up, and continue on my journey. I figure this is a lifelong process, so I can't continue to get pissed every time I don't see progress. I'd be one mad chick for the rest of my life. Well, I have some things to do today, so I better get a move on them.

I must admit that today was a rather properous day. I got so much done...more than I normally get done on a Sunday. I am usually lounging around the house doing nothing and dreading that the next day is Monday, but not today. I got in a workout on TM today for 60 minutes and burned a few hundred calories. I found two good episodes of One on One, and that kept me occupied for that hour. It actually went by fast. I also got the chance to pay some bills online, finish a couple loads of laundry (wash, dried, and put away), mopped my kitchen and bathroom, went to my landlord's house to pay my rent, balanced my checkbook, and went to Wal-mart. I also went to my moms this afternoon and helped on my niece's school project that is due tomorrow.

I bought a body ball today that I am going to try and use for my crunches. Does anyone have one? Is it working for you? I have heard about them, and I have a friend who has one, but never bought one. Well, today I did and I just used all my muscles and strength to pump the dang thing up. I will let ya'll know how it works out for me. I hear that balancing yourself on it is the hardest part.

Well, all the energy I had today is coming to an end because I can feel it dwindling down. I am about to get on with the rest of the night, so I can hit the sack. Until next time.

Yesterday turned out to be a great Monday. I got a lot done and stayed incredibly busy at work and at home. I managed to get done just about everything that I had planned to do.

After work, I went to the gym and did 70 minutes of cardio, worked on tummy, and then on arms. I have someone at the gym who is really helping me out with the toning part and I am starting to really see some definition. Even my sister noticed that my arms are taking a more toned and sculpted look. So far, I am very pleased with the way it is going and I know that my little muscles will only get better with time.

Well, I actually have a lot of work to do today at work...imagine that...I will be checking in later.

I have a body ball. I have a Pilates DVD to go with it, but it is way ridiculous. I'm reasonable flexible, but there is no way I can lift that ball up and over my head, using just my ankles. I bought a book at Borders that shows all kinds of toning exercises. There are crunch-type exercises in it, but also things for arms and legs. I don't use it much, but I do like it.

Your Sunday DID sound productive, my goodness! Wow. Sundays are a work day for me, though, too. I love to start the week on Monday with clean clothes and a clean house.

As far as maintaining your weight--- you are watching what you eat and burning lots of calories, so your discipline isn't the issue. Have you tried to alter your routine? I have noticed for myself (and other DTers have posted too) that changing my routine sometimes "tricks" the body into losing a little more. Sometimes it's taking a day off and eating a little more junk-type food, changing the type of exercise, eating at a different time of day, something like that. At any rate, maintaining is always better than gaining. And, it gives your skin time to catch up so you aren't left with sagginess. Losing weight too quickly could be just as serious a problem, so little plateaus along the way are a mixed blessing of sorts. I know it's not much of a consolation when you step on the scale, but try to keep that in mind and not get too bummed about it.

Keep up the good work!

Teach - thanks for stopping in and thanks for the advice. I know that I would rather lose the weight slower than faster, but it does get frustrating at times. I have been changing up things a lot lately, especially when it comes to my cardio. I need to get into doing different types of cardio, so my body doesn't get used to what I have been doing. I have also been hitting the weights with toning a lot more lately, so I can also say that I have gained some slight muscle mass, which I am happy with that and the definition I am seeing.

Today has been an extremely draining day. I am WAY BEYOND tired this afternoon, and I still have quite a bit to do before I can rest. I am working on this application that I have to have in by Friday. It is for this really amazing job that I have wanted all my life and the agency is recruiting now, so I figured now is as good a time as any. The application is like 35 pages long and asks a tremendous amount of personal questions. It has really taken a toll on me, but so well worth it. I just got to get it done by Friday and bring it in. Well, I better get going so I can decide whether or not I want to hit the gym. Until next time...

As drained as I was, I did make it to the gym tonight. I had a real good workout with the TM, elliptical, and weights. I did upper body on my the weights. I am really pleased with the slow progess my arms are making. They are toning up nicely. I didn't work my tummy at the gym, but did a little on my body ball thing before I went and will do some more before bed. Overall, it was a very pleasing day and tomorrow closes out the week for me...YIPPIE!!

Well, I made it thru a full week at work. A full week for me is M-Thrs. I decided to give my body a day of rest from the gym. I will probably use my body ball tonight and work on some crunches, but definitely not any cardio. I stopped at the store on my way home from work and decided to make taco salad for dinner tonight. It is so quick and easy to fix, so that shouldn't take very long. I have finish up my application for tomorrow. I only have the essay portion left, so I am going to get started and hopefully be finished by a decent hour tonight.

Things have been a little hectic lately, but all is well with me. I got my application in on Friday and got all of that business squared away. The next step is to begin preparing for the examination that will be next Saturday. I have already begun looking over it, but still have a ways to go.

I got in a good workout yesterday morning. I did some cardio, a little bit on my stomach, and did lower body toning. My legs are killing me. I have been working with the weights with squats and also some toning for my calves. I am already seeing some definition and even believe that I have picked up some slight muscle mass...at least that is what I hope it is.

I did some shopping yesterday after the gym and bought 2 shirts and 2 pairs of slacks. I picked up a black and gray pair. I tried on the grays, but not the blacks. The black were a little different cut, but I figured they would fit about the same. Much to my surprise...they are too big. I should have gotten an 8. I was way surprised when I put them on this morning for church. It was a good surprise though. Well, got some things to get done, so I am signing off for now. I will check back in later.

I have been skimping a little bit on my commitment to my journal, but this week I have vowed to get back on track. Things have been a little busy, but I am going to get some balance going again, and try and get back to DT everyday.

So far, even though I just got to work, the morning has been pleasant. I didn't want to get out of bed this AM, but I managed to do so and a little before 4 AM, which is serious progress for me, especially since I stayed up kinda late last night studying. I am preparing for this exam on Saturday, and I have lots of work to do on my math skills. I also had time to do a load of laundry this morning and stop and put air in my tire.

Today should be a busy day. I have not been to work since Thursday, so I have plenty to do in terms of catching up and starting new things. I also have a resource fair coming up next Friday that I need to get underway. Well, I guess that is enough for now. I will start on all this work I just mentioned. Until next time.

Made it to the gym tonight and had a really good workout. Either I worked up a serious sweat or the a/c was broke. I think it was a little bit of both. I mean I was pouring sweat. A good workout wraps up a good day for me. I still have some studying to do before I can call it a night. I can't wait for Saturday to get here, so that I can get this exam over with, but at the same time, I wish I had more study time. I feel like I am back in college again and craming. Oh well, it will all be worth it after Saturday...assuming I pass.

I am also, amongst all the other chaos in my life, hosting a party this month. I picked up my hostess package today and have got to begin preparing for that...drinks, few decorations, food. I dread the thought of it, but I am excited, nevertheless. I love having people over and just having a good time. Forgeting about everything else and just enjoying each other. Well, if I want another productive day tomorrow with a good start, I better get a move on what I have to get done tonight, so I can hit the sack. Until next time.

Hi, Kelly! The new job sounds exciting. What kind of job is it for, unless you don't want to jinx it or something--- I know some people are superstitious about things like that. :) It's fun just to think about having a great new job, though, something I've definitely been daydreaming about lately!

You're throwing a party? How fun! I am too, next weekend. Are you throwing a specific type of party, or just a "everyone come hang out" kind of party?You are right -- it is absolutely terrifying, wondering will everyone have fun? Will people like my house? Is it going to be clean enough? Will I have enough food? Is the food going to taste good? Who should I invite? I really like to play hostess, though, and it sounds like you do, too. Good luck with that! Let me know how it turns out.

Hi girl

Thank you so very much for stopping over. I like visitors. They are great. And I try and enjoy my water with them. Looks good in here. Good luck with all.

Boblin-thanks for stopping in. It is a real treat to have visitors. I try to get to yours as often as possible.

Today has been really busy and hectic and my day is still not close to being over yet. I have another hour to do at work, then a meeting at 5:30, then hit the gym, then try to get some studying in tonight after the gym. I feel my eyes getting heavy already, and it is not even 3:30 over here. Well, with all this busy work, I do have the day off tomorrow. Today is technically my Friday. I do have a meeting tomorrow at 11 and then hair appt. at 5:30, but no WORK. I an at least get to sleep in past 4 AM. The rest of tomorrow I am totally devoting to studying for my test on Saturday. I cannot wait for that to be over with, I have so much other stuff going on that I am not able to focus on for worrying about this test. If I pass, it will be so worth it though.

HI Kelly
Wow! I seems like you had great success with your weight loss... I will definetly be looking at your journal for inspiration.

Tara.(newbie again)

Peace.

Hi, Kelly. No posts from you for a few days... I hope that all is going well and that you are enjoying the weekend. Make sure you get lots of rest--- you are so, so busy all the time! Be careful not to get burned out. :)

Teacher81-Yesterday was crazy with me taking my exam and whatnot. That was a lengthy process that took the majority of the day. Afterwards, I wanted to celebrate my passing. YES, I PASSED THE EXAM. It was literally an act of the Lord because I definitely didn't do it on my own.

I don't know how I missed your earlier post, I am so sorry. Yes, I am throwing at party this month on the 28th. It is actually jewerly showcase. A lady will be selling sterling silver jewerly and I am providing the house, food, beverages, etc. Since I am hosting, I will get some "goodies" out of the deal myself. Also, since it is techinically Halloween weekend, I have decided it to turn it into a Halloween theme and have everyone wear costumes. The lady who is selling the jewerly will be giving discounts on the purchases of those that come in costumes. I think it is going to be great, I just have to get to planning, now that I am through racking my brain for that test. Oh yeah, the test I took was called the Treasury Enforcement Agents Exam. It is for a position with the federal government, specifically dept. of homeland security. There is like a million and one steps and that test was a major factor. You have to pass that test to move on to the next round. I only had about 1 week to use the study guide and try to remember all this algebra, formulas, etc. that I have not used in years. It was really tough. Oh well, I passed and I don't even want to think about it anymore.

Tara - thanks for stopping in. I LOVE IT. I hate talking/writing to myself sometimes. At times I can look back for reflection and encouragement on the days when I was really strong and need a little uplifting or sorts, but other than that, I hate reading my own writing, so pop anytime you want. Thanks again.

Well, I am in desperate need of some coffee. Last night, met a friend and celebrated the passing of my test, and I am feeling the headache of effects this morning...lol. Check in later.

Congrats on passing that test!! Wow... government job! That would be awesome. (As would a government pension!!) What's next in the process??

Thanks for stopping by my journal earlier today. I hope you have a good start to the week. :)

Teach - Thank you, I am so excited words cannot express. The next step was to have your first initial interview, which they did Saturday afternoon for those that passed. Now the next step is to complete more paperwork to be sent off and get your panel interview scheduled. If you get a thumbs up on the panel interview then you'd have a medical exam and polygraph. If you pass all those stages, then they would begin your background investigation where they completely dig around in your life and call everyone under the sun asking about you. It is a very long process, but with all that said I am so excited. I just pray to continue to make it through to the next phases. Keep your fingers crossed.

Well, I didn't get in a workout yesterday. The weather was really horrible down here. I did get a chance to make it to the grocery store last night and came home and made a new Teryiki Stir Fry. It was pretty good. It was the packaged kind, so it really didn't take much effort. It was chicken with loads of veggies. If I am remembering correctly, the protein was rather high with only 150 calories per 8 oz. I don't think that was too bad. Well, I have to do a