This Little Piggy

This is what I really look like.....

2012-01-03T08:31:00.000+11:00

Time for a change me thinks!!!!

Both these photos were taken on Boxing Day 2011... since then I have been lucky enough to not be in front of the camera!!

littlepiggy xxxx

Happy New Year - cheers to 2012!!

2012-01-03T08:22:00.000+11:00

Soooo it's a NEW YEAR but what does that really mean for this Little Piggy?

Lots of changes that's for sure......

weight loss
healthy menu planning
regular exercise
reaching goals
overcoming challenges
feeling success
focus
motivation
self acceptence
inner peace
inner happiness

“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day.” Edith Lovejoy Pierce
2012 is going to be my year... I know you have heard me say it over and over again that "this time I will..." but I am going to prove to you "that this time I WILL!!"

littlepiggy xxxx

Roll me out.... beach ball status!

2011-12-25T23:33:00.000+11:00

Ok Christmas lunch done and dusted... now open the front door and roll me out. I am sooo full not only from today but the last few weeks of participating in the festive cheer!!!

I have eaten way to much this last few weeks - and yes eaten without a care in the world. I have completely stopped worrying about what I put in my mouth and when. The really sad thing is - I actually thought I was enjoying myself.

That is until my conscience kicked in and started questioning myself today - today of all days!!

So putting today aside I am going to spend the next hour or so menu planning for the rest of the year just to ensure I stay on track and don't go overboard

2012 is going to be my year. I have wasted enough time and to be honest I am totally over being miserable, frumpy and overweight!!

I am not going to give up (as I haven't yet) but I will make it happen!

littlepiggy

55 days until Christmas - I haven't given up....

2011-10-30T12:18:00.000+11:00

I haven't given up on my challenge.. I have just been really busy with work and family life.

I have been travelling ok but not brilliant. I missed last week's weigh in as I was in Bacchus Marsh until late which dissappointed me a lot.

This weekend is a long weeekend due to Melbourne Cup and thankfully the actual public holiday falls on Tuesday (the day after my weigh in) as we go to a friend's house to celebrate the cup. There is normally a spit roast and lots of alcohol. Not that I plan on totally overindulging anyway.

I am not sure how my weigh in will go this week but if I just stay the same I will be happy!!

littlepiggy xx

69 days til Christmas.... weigh in!!

2011-10-17T21:07:00.000+11:00

Well I did survive week one JUST!!

It wasn't the most perfect week food and exercise wise but a sneak peak at my home scales showed a good sign. But no matter what they showed it was the result on the meeting scales that really mattered.

Nervously I waited in the queue for my turn wondering if the home scales were lying to me. Seeing all the girls, Julz, Chris and of course Sammi, always makes me feel better and a little more positive about myself.

Hopped on the scales... and to my surprise a loss of 2.2kgs!! Taking my weight to 89.3kgs!! Woohoo I had broken the 90kg mark in my first week...... I think I am definitely on track for my December goal.

littlepiggy xxxx

70 days til Christmas - surviving a day in the house?

2011-10-16T22:09:00.001+11:00

My first Sunday home since committing myself to this challenge and believe it or not I actually survive better out of the house!!

The kitchen is like a magnet, forever drawing me into it's clutches and tempting me with any food that is first in my eyesight - good or bad. I tried to combat this with actually cleaning the kitchen from top to bottom just to prove I could be in there without eating, I scrubbed the cupboard doors, cleaned the stovetop, washed the walls and did the floor. Did it help? NOPE!!!

My back was in half, I was exhausted and the first thing I did was to do some cooking with Alex. We made Mexican Chicken Sausage Rolls and Satay Pork Parcels - thankfully only 2 ppts each but after eating a couple of each I knew that I had reached my quota of these delicious pastries.

After lunch we did some more cleaning and sorting out of the camping equipment, a bit of shopping then after dinner hubby and I listened to some tunes... many of which I couldn't sit and listen to I had to dance....

Bring on the scales tomorrow night

littlepiggy xx

71 days until Christmas...... Shopping and Eating

2011-10-15T21:59:00.000+11:00

Shopping and eating seem to go hand in hand especially in a shopping centre when you get to the food court. Everything looks good and the smells draw you closer into their trap of purchasing "bad" foods. Today was no different except Alex and I were at Ikea.. the new one in Springvale.

Ikea in Springvale is 2.2 kms to walk around and has a cafe half way. Ikea would have to be one of my favourite shops - if not my favourite. Needless to say after walking half way around Ikea, Alex and I stopped and had lunch. It was such a hard decision! I normally get myself a LARGE serve of meatballs, always have chips and ask for extra sauces. Today I didn't (shock horror). Alex ordered a medium serve of meatballs, I ordered the grilled chicken with whole wheat pilaf!! OMG that's exactly what I was thinking? Even in shock I was quite proud of myself. I did steal a couple of meatballs off Alex and she shared my chicken.

We finished our walk around Ikea, spent too much money as per usual but it was great to be out and about with my special princess.

How do you cope when it comes to eating out while shopping?

littlepiggy xx

72 days until Christmas.... Surviving a social occasion!

2011-10-14T22:55:00.000+11:00

Ok so I have done really well so far with my focus etc and although I have faced small challenges through the week, which I have dismissed and reminded myself I didn't need a packet of crisps or an extra serve of dinner I know that the challenge I face tonight will be tough.

Tonight we went to CH (Chubby Hubby's) parents house for a family BBQ. It was a family BBQ that we do not need to bring anything to although we asked so we took a bottle of wine for Mam and Dad. Tonight's meal was nice and I was quite careful with having a smaller portion of the potato bake and ensuring that my plate was quite full of salad - I still managed to eat too much.

It was good to see all the family again and although I did have some wine, I enjoyed both the company and the food.

How do you survive social occasions?

littlepiggy xx

73 days until Christmas..... Do you menu plan?

2011-10-13T12:55:00.002+11:00

Doing well – still sticking within ppts daily (haven’t used any stash ppts) yet but hey it’s almost the weekend.

Tonight we are have the Caribbean Style Pork Cutlets with Rice Salad from the new WW Cookbook Eat and Enjoy… after dinner tonight I will menu plan for next week as we are busy Friday night, the night I normally sit down and do it.

Do you menu plan your day, your week or not at all? I am addicted to menu planning, every Monday I post up our menu over at Welcome to the House Of Murray (our family blog) – I hate the weeks when I travel for more than 1 – 2 days with work as it throws my menu planning out of whack. Oh well…

Here is my daily menu plan for today:

Day 3 Menu:

Breakfast:

Skim Milk – 1ppt

1 slice of wholegrain toast – 2ppt

140g SPC Spaghetti – 3ppt

1 tbs Maggi Hot Chilli Sauce – 1ppt

Snack:

Banana – 0ppt

Lunch:

¾ serve Sweet and Spicy Beef Noodles – 8ppts

Snack:

Strawberries – 0ppt

Dinner:

Caribbean Style Pork Cutlet with Rice Salad – 8ppt

Stuffed Mushroom – 3ppt

Total 26ppts

littlepiggy

74 days until Christmas.... Move It Move It Move It

2011-10-12T13:21:00.001+11:00

I have to move it, move it, MOVE IT!!

That is my new focus… getting in some exercise as I know I can handle the food side of this caper (just need to keep a strict eye on the portion sizes but don’t we all?).

I decided that I will aim for +10000 steps per day but failed miserably yesterday with only managing 5770, just over half way. I guess that’s 5770 more steps than sitting on my arse on the couch even though that’s not the point.

Anyhow I am still positive and motivated……

Day 2 Menu:

Breakfast:
Skim Milk – 1ppt
1 slice of wholegrain toast – 2ppt
140g SPC Spaghetti – 3ppt
1 tbs Maggi Hot Chilli Sauce – 1ppt

Snack:
Rockmelon – 0ppt

Lunch:
Lean Cuisine Mexican Beef with Rice and Tortillas – 10ppt
Lettuce and cucumber – 0ppts

Snack:
Strawberries – 0ppt

Dinner:
Sweet and Spicy Beef Noodles - 10ppt
Total 27 ppts
littlepiggy

75 days until Christmas......... Day 1 of a new era

2011-10-11T13:51:00.002+11:00

Drum Roll please ……. Last night saw a gain of 2kgs since my last weigh in on September 19th. It wasn’t a surprise nor was it unexpected but it is what it is! Overall though - it has given me a proper starting place for my Christmas Challenge. That starting weight is 91.5 kgs.

With the starting weight of 91.5kgs I now hope to be in the low 80’s come the Festive Season which is totally achievable depending on ME! Yep it’s all up to me and my determination etc – NO ONE ELSE!!

I started off today really well with organising breakfast, lunch and snacks to take to work. This is something that I need to do every day as it will eliminate the need to purchase foods at the local take away shop which, lets be totally honest, isn’t as easy as walking in and ordering a salad sandwich when the hot bain marie is light up like Luna Park enticing you to walk over and have a look!!

Dinners has been planned for the rest of the week with the only meal I am fearing in Friday night as we are going to the in-laws for a bbq. Never mind I will see if I can take something that I can lean on and just avoid the sausages etc.

I really cannot believe that I am feeling this positive – I actually feel motivated and the urge to be successful. These are feelings I haven’t felt for a long time due to all the other emotions and happenings that have been drowning me lately.

Saying this I will continue to take it one day at a time ….

Day 1 Menu:

Breakfast:
Skim Milk – 1ppt
1 slice of wholegrain toast – 2ppt
1 laughing cow light cheese - 1ppt

Snack:
Rockmelon – 0ppt

Lunch:
½ serve Beef and Spinach Cannelloni – 6ppts
1/3 medium avocado – 2ppts
Lettuce and cucumber – 0ppts

Snack:
Strawberries – 0ppt

Dinner:
Chicken and Vegetable Casserole – 10ppts
Boiled Chat Potatoes – 2 ppts

Total 24ppts

littlepiggy

Facing the scales.....

2011-10-10T09:47:00.001+11:00

Tonight I am facing the scales.... good or bad it will be the result of not attending a meeting since 19th September and of course, not really caring about what has gone in my mouth for the last few weeks!!

What ever the result this will be a starting point for the 11 weeks I have set myself to achieve something good....

littlepiggy xx

Get another chin will you????

2011-10-09T16:57:00.001+11:00

This photo was taken today at lunch with my gorjus niece Charlie who is visiting with her mother from Sydney. I have to say I don't LIKE this photo of me.

11 weeks until Christmas

2011-10-09T11:11:00.002+11:00

WOW yes once again it has snuck up and of course my goals for this year haven't been reached as yet!!

I am thinking that there is exactly 77 days left until the jolly fat man comes and this year I would like to be at least smaller (lighter) and healthier for the silly season.

77 days = 11 weeks and I am aiming to be 10kg lighter by the 25th December 2011 and maybe my reward will be some nice clothes to make me look special on the day.

I think this is quite a realistic challenge against myself... I am sure if I stay focused it can be achieved maybe I could even have more of a loss but that would only be a bonus as I am focussing on 10kgs.

Wish me luck - I am putting this out there so it's not something that's in my head where I can keep changing the goal posts!!

littlepiggy xx

Peek-A-Boo!

2011-10-08T10:00:00.002+11:00

I have decided it's time to stop hiding and come back out into the open.

I will remove myself from my comfort zone of gorging and binging secretly only to look to be doing the right thing in public. Funny I tick all the right boxes - menu plan, shop properly, get breakfasts and lunches ready for hubby and the kids but then I don't bother about myself and end up buying breakfast and lunch at work.... I have issues putting myself up as a priority even though I know I should. I cannot keep going this way!

Work has really messed me around this last 8 weeks with travelling and living in motels (yes another excuse) and I am hoping that it will become more routine travel in the coming months. The motel where I have stayed for just under 6 weeks had no cooking facilities nor room service so it was left to the mercy of the local pubs and restaurants. Needless to say I didn't do very good with wise choices etc.

I haven't been to a WW meeting for 2 weeks now - due to being away on Monday so I actually have no real weight to start today off with but I will definitely be going on Monday to see Sam and catch up with all the girls.

I need to refocus, replan, organise myself and put me first if I am going to get anywhere with this weightloss caper.... god knows I have been around long enough to know what I am doing!!

Basically in a nut shell enough f##king around - time to get serious (even if it is a Saturday!!)

littlepiggy xx

(I was going to delete all my previous posts but thought I would hang on to them for memories sake as I did have some good days in the past and maybe I can draw on the focus and motivation of days of old!!)

Nothing to report - hiding in cupboard or under bed etc

2011-10-07T08:04:00.002+11:00

~~~~~

It's been a long time (again)

but

there is change around the corner...

(I promise!)

~~~~~

I haven't given up!

2011-07-12T10:12:00.005+10:00

Well it has definitely been a long time between posts.

In fact it's been toooo long.... the hands of time continue to tick even when you don't focus on what you are doing.....

I have to be honest and say that while I haven’t given up I have just been off track battling food demons and returning to old negative/bad habits. I have come to the conclusion that I give up too easily and pay out on myself to harshly – therefore always yo-yoing up and down through my emotions.

Last night saw my second gain in two weeks… a familiar pattern when I am not tracking or believing in myself. I wasn’t shocked or disappointed for it was expected considering the way I have been treating myself of late. I have been on holidays during my absence but this cannot be used as an excuse either.

This morning however I am full of motivation of positivity… I know I can do this but hiding in the cupboard will not help anyone let alone this Little Piggy.

Today I plan to put the last few months behind me and move forward in a more positive and enthusiastic manner. There are so many things I want to achieve in my life and losing weight is high on the list but for some reason I always manage to reprioritise it to a lower ranking and then sook about my decision….

BUT Today marks a change….

Today marks the beginning of my lifestyle change not another diet……

Today, and from today, I will make a difference in ME!

Ok now down to the nitty gritty…. tracking, planning and preparation!!

Here is my food plan for today:

B: Home made bircher muesli (40 grams oats, 1 apple peeled and grated, 10g sultanas, 2 fresh dates chopped, 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon and 2 tablespoons water mixed and soaked overnight) served with 100g low fat strawberry yoghurt and a coffee with skim milk – 8 propoints
S: 1 cup rockmelon – 0 propoints
L: Egg Salad (2 boiled eggs, lettuce, celery, cucumber, snow pea shoots and 2 tablespoons low fat mayonnaise) – 7 propoints
S: 1 punnet strawberries – 0 propoints
D: 1 small serve lasagne – 10 propoints (guesstimate as my mam is making the lasagne) and bulking out with propoint free salad.

Total: 25/29 propoints – allowing for something extra for after dinner…. Maybe a glass of wine.

From here on in I am going to do better for myself…..

littlepiggy xx

Day 1 - Tuesday has been tackled and I survived!!

2011-06-01T06:45:00.003+10:00

Yes I decided to call yesterday "Day 1" probably more like "Day 1 millionth" BUT that is all in the past. It's all about the present and the future now......

I had a great day yesterday - sticking with my food plan even buying myself a salad roll (multigrain bread, no butter and a little mayo) yesterday whilst on my travels with work.

It's amazing how being in control feels!!!

Cutting the cord......

2011-05-31T05:40:00.002+10:00

The time has come to cut the cord... not the umbilical cord but the cord on the yoyo that I allow to motion up and down week after week. To be honest I thought I had cut the cord - a few weeks ago I experienced success week after week - 3 weeks in a row with really good losses and then hit the brick wall.

The result of no tracking, not being prepared, eating out and about has been several weeks of the scales being up and down. Although saying this my weigh-in brought zero change - staying the same as last week.

But in my head I know that I cannot continue down this familiar path - in my head I know that I really believe that I want to change - that I want to succeed - that, bottom line, I want to lose this weight. Not just for my health but my overall happiness.

From this day forward I require strength, motivation, will power, determination and support. I need to put my foot down and make this a healthy house not just for me but to show my family that we can survive with healthy foods and healthy choices. They may reject the idea but that's the way it's going to be from now on so I can resist my own temptations.

Dreaming is believing, doing is achieving...... watch this space.

Hhhhmmm????

2011-05-16T10:02:00.003+10:00

I had a bad weekend food wise again and I am now dreading facing the scales at weigh in tonight..... rekindled some bad food habits (ggrrrr!!)

I swear I leave my will power on my desk every Friday afternoon as I seem to find it again Monday morning when I sitting back at my desk!!

I thought will power was meant to be portable? hhhmmmm???

Chipping away...

2011-05-10T07:29:00.002+10:00

I had another good result this week... another loss!! 800 grams this week. Surprised however as we did have Chinese for dinner on Sunday with it being Mother's Day. I get worried eating chinese before WI due to the salt and the water retention factor.

But overall I am not complaining..... why? Because a loss is a loss!!

littlepiggy xx

A loss but it's been a hard time.....

2011-05-05T10:23:00.003+10:00

Yes I had a loss - two weeks (no meeting due to Easter) and I lost. Infact a good loss of 3kgs. I am really happy with myself for several reasons.

Firstly I had already planned not to let Easter or the fact of being away and out of rountine/familiar surroundings ruin my goal.

Secondly, considering how things turned out and with all the family dramas - I didn't turn to food or alcohol I just focussed on me and what I needed to do to get through the ugly situation.

I enjoyed being able to brag about the 3kg loss in my meeting although admitting that the weekend was awful brought me to tears infront of the other members. Super Sam as usual comforted me after the meeting and told me to continue to put me first.

That is the really key I believe - I have to put me first! I am the important one! I am the only one that can do this for me so I need to put myself front and centre and focus.....

This week's goals are to track, step +10000 daily and exercise at least 3 times this week.

Jo xx

Moving forward and setting a small goal....

2011-04-19T05:59:00.002+10:00

Good morning and what a great morning it is...

Hold on is this really me? Why so jovial and positive? Why? Because I can be and because I choose to be.

After last night's weigh in and weight gain, although depressed and very angry at myself I did some soul searching and realised that I haven't given up on myself completely as I keep trying (thanks Bec for reminding me of that fact!).

Today is a new day, another line drawn in the sand and I am moving forward.

I CAN DO THIS.

AND I WILL DO THIS!

It's Easter this weekend and I know I can survive the temptation of Easter Eggs but we are travelling to Sydney for the weekend. Eating out at restaurants and having take away for the weekend. I am however planning to take some basic food staples with me such as fruit, cereal, snack bars (healthy of course) to help myself resist the food temptations. It will be hard as I know how hard I find it when I am travelling for work surviving on hotel food etc. I am not kidding myself that this will be a walk in the park!!

Last night at our meeting, Super Sam set us a challenge. Our meeting is closed next week due to the Easter break so unless I weigh in elsewhere it will be two weeks between facing the scales. Sam's challenge was to choose an amount of weight to loose in the next two weeks and aim for it. I joking laughed with Deb, my friend who I may just add is shy of losing 45kgs, that 0.1kgs would be a perfect amount to aim for! Thinking about it that was just a cop out. I can survive this weekend away then have another week to get back on track and really make a difference to myself. So my challenge is to loose at least 1 kg over the next two weeks. It's not a huge figure but it's something that is achievable and something more to focus on that 100 grams!

My support buddies are rallying around me to help me to stay focussed I just honestly wish that chubby hubby would also so we can both keep each other on the right track... guess it's up to me to start by setting an example!

Jo xx

What a PORKER!!

2011-04-18T18:20:00.003+10:00

A weight gain today - totally expected but it still has that devastating effect on me every single time especially when I know everything that contributed to the outcome was my OWN choices and no-one elses.

So what was the damage??? A gain of 2.4kgs!!! Thankfully not all in one week but over a period of 3 weeks not that I am bragging as it is still NOT a good result.

Ok so where to from here? I have a huge weekend ahead with us all being away in Sydney but that's controllable - after all everything REALLY IS MY CHOICE!

The Piggy Is Back ~ OINK!!

2011-04-18T06:16:00.003+10:00

Well I have done it again... fell off the wagon!

Gorged on food and alcohol off and on for a few week now.. hence the silence on my behalf! It's time to face the music tonight and go to my meeting. I have to say not looking forward to it as the scales will not be forgiving and show a loss! Infact my scales at home were out right RUDE and told the sad story of a huge gain!

What can I say? It's all my own doing so no sympathy required just a huge kick up the bum and a few sharp blows to the head will probably do the job!! Back on the straight and narrow as of this minute.

I know where I have been going wrong with the food etc but also segregating myself from support networks like my luvlee ladies on the Weight Watchers forums, my facebook WW friends, etc doesn't do me any good either. I am not exercising, tracking or even caring!!

Sorry for my vent but it really is time for this little piggy to FACE THE MUSIC and do something about it!

A loss..... not much but it's still a loss!

2011-03-22T17:14:00.002+11:00

After two weeks of somewhat controlled eating for which I cannot say was completely guilt free I managed to pull off a small loss. The result - a loss of 900 grams. YAY!!

So it was back to the grindstone today and I have set myself the goal of shifting 5kgs before heading to Sydney for the Easter Long Weekend in April. It will be hard, I am not going to kid myself, considering I do have some social functions coming up between now and then.

Tracking is going to become a habit... I purchased a new tracker and will write in it daily - good and BAD!

Exercise needs to become a priority... I have challenged myself to at least do 10000 steps daily but I know that overall that will not be enough. I keep looking at my treadmill and I am seriously considering dusting it off!!

Anyhow I know I need to do what is required otherwise I will not achieve my biggest desire - healthiness and happiness within myself.

I actually think I am ready......

OINK I am still trying.......

2011-03-21T13:20:00.003+11:00

Hi all,

Well I have been missing in action from blogging for what seems forever which saddens me as I love having this medium to be able to voice my thoughts etc. As a family we have been very busy - with one thing or another. In fact since January 1st it feels like we haven't stopped to smell the roses as we have just been too overwhelmed with life in general.

As for me... I am still the yo-yo queen... not really advancing in the weight loss stakes but once again I still can somewhat proudly say that I haven't given up completely. Like I said "somewhat".

So what has been happening besides fresh starts, wiping the slate clean, binge eating and drinking - not that much. I can say that recently though I have seemed to feel like the time is right and my head is steering towards the right frame of mind. I have joined another online group through Facebook that is Weight Watchers based. They have given me some new found inspiration and I am thankful that they actually contacted me to join them... someone out there is thinking of me even when I am not!! LOL!! Must say you cannot knock the Weight Watchers support system at all - in or out of the meeting.

I have weigh in tonight which I have to say I don't know how I really feel about getting on the scales. Last week our meeting was closed due to the Labour Day Public Holiday (Vic) but I did weigh on my home scales. It showed a loss of 1.5kgs - which was fantastic and also spurred me on to stay on track without my meeting fix... but then it was the weekend.

A weekend full of party celebrations for my princess Alex who turned 10 years old on Friday. We went out for dinner on Friday to the Frankston RSL - my meal was totally different to the description. I chose a chefs suggestion, the Crumbed Chicken Breast which was a Chicken Breast pocketed with fresh Tarragon, vine-ripened Tomatoes and Mushrooms, crumbed and served with Vegetables and Blue Cheese Garlic Sauce. What was on my plate was a crumbed and deep fried chicken breast complete with wing bone pocketed with fresh tarragon, tomatoes, mushrooms and some sort of cream smothered in the blue cheese garlic sauce which I requested on the side. I think they put the sauce over the top to ensure I couldn't see how dark brown the crumbs were from the deep frying..... oh well.... all I can say is I MUST work on my choosing wise choices proceedure. My fault..... sort of!!

That was Friday - Saturday was then Alex's disco party for which I had purchased party foods and then Noel asked what are we having for dinner?? I didn't realise that I had completely forgot about us with all the hype of the party so it was party food for us also. No time to contemplate cooking anything at 8pm when the disco was in full swing!!

Wish me luck today for my weigh in..... we are off to Sydney at Easter so I am hoping to have lost at least 5kg by then (just under 5 weeks) achievable - HELL YES!!

Success 1st week back....

2011-01-18T12:45:00.002+11:00

Well I am over my birthday now and over the Festive season so there was nothing else to do than to get back on track.

This week was interesting to say the least. Tuesday was perfect - I planned and tracked not to mention felt great but then due to the Brisbane floods my whole week turned upside down. I was asked to work out of a different office in a call centre environment. The building that houses our Customer Service Centre (responsible for the running of our logistics) was evacuated and they set up a make shift office here and with my quarry experience was asked to asist with the order taking etc.

I had somewhat a good week except for a blow out on the weekend..

Don't get me wrong - I enjoyed the whole experience even thought the circumstances behind the change were tragic, working with new people and also the change from what I normally do. But there has been temptations!!! Food temptations - my company provided brunch (danishes, muffins, savouries, fruit) and lunches (subway, pizza, sushi) and not to mention the afternoon sugar fixes of bowls of lollies and tim tams. Needless to say I packed my food supplies for the working days the night before to ensure that I would try and eliminate temptation. I did however have Subway for lunch on Monday which was okay I guess! The other problem I faced was the long days (starting at 5am every morning) and finishing whenever - I am not a good thinker when I am tired.... which after working Saturday as well I was exhausted!

My blow out on the weekend came in the form of takeaway pizza. Why pizza??? I just couldn't be bothered. I was physically and mentally exhausted from the last week and after working most of Saturday and then doing the grocery shopping I just couldn't think outside the pizza box!! My mam had gone to her friend's for the night and Noel had gone out also leaving just me and the kids. We planned a movie night and unfortunately pizza just happened.

My weigh in this week saw a loss of 0.5kg though which probably would have been better if the weekend blow out didn't happen - but I guess the most important thing is that I am happy with my result as it could have been a lot worse.

I really feel good for doing the best I could when I could - this journey is about ME and MY life not a rigid diet regime and some things are just going to happen......

Ok so I am 40 now....

2011-01-11T12:43:00.004+11:00

I confess Saturday saw me reach the big "40" and yes I celebrated in style with a party! Needless to say I actually let my hair down and thoroughly enjoyed myself with the party finishing around 3am-ish. Of course I drank too much champagne and didn't eat enough but it's only going to happen once - the 40th that is!!

I think it may be time I grow up, what do you think?

Last night saw my first weigh in since 20 December 2010. I wasn't really looking forward to getting on the scales but I knew that the figure last night would be my starting figure for 2011. A figure that I vow will not get any larger but will definitely get smaller.

So what did the scales say??

Current weight 88.4 kgs.

Overall that's a gain of 0.3kgs in 3 weeks and was I happy - damn right I was. I don't even care that is was a gain as it was so minimal - maybe all that dancing did me good!!

So what's in store for this little piggy this year.... CHANGES!!

CHANGES in ~

eating habits
tracking habits
drinking habits
exercise habits

These need to be daily changes not one offs - I am doing this for me and for the health of my family as changes won't do them any harm either.

Have a great day everyone - I sure am going too!

2011 Bring it on.... No Excuses Just Results

2011-01-01T22:33:00.003+11:00

I am ready to face all demons that are involved in this weight loss caper.... yes I know I restart and restart but honestly every attempt made in 2010 was either half hearted or self sabotaged within the first few weeks.

This year it's going to be different. I have hit rock bottom with my feelings and my self hate of my body is really playing on my mind. My husband tells me that I am beautiful but I just tell him to put his proper glasses on! I can't see how he can say that - not in the frame of mind that I am now anyway.

I turn 40 on January 8th and it was my goal in 2010 to reach my goal by my birthday but that didn't happen and that annoys me also. It doesn't annoy me that I didn't reach goal it annoys me that I didn't really try!!

I could have waited until after my birthday but that would have wasted another 8 days. Even my mam tried to convince me to wait until after my birthday but I actually woke up this morning wanting to get back on track, back to healthy eating and actually doing something for myself.

Tonight I sit here and I feel really good about myself. I stayed within my daily points allowance of 29 infact I miscalculated and actually only ate 28. I did get some movement in with 2 exercise points earned and I didn't have any alcohol. I think the third thing is my biggest achievement today as I cannot remember the last day I went without a glass of wine.

Oops nearly forgot... Happy New Year to you all. Thank you for your kind words and support in 2010 which I appreciated. Here's to a successful 2011 for us all.

I really need help!!!

2010-12-04T22:27:00.000+11:00

FIrstly don't get me wrong I am LOVING the propoints plan.....

My first week was brilliant. So brilliant I lost 1.7kgs.

However the second week I had a gain of 1.2kgs and I know exactly what I did to assist. Didn't eat all my points a couple of days, limited exercise and of course a few days we just won't talk about wink wink!!

Basically I just cannot seem to get any weeks right since Week 1.

I do travel with work occasionally and this happens to be what I am doing at the moment BUT I don't want to use that as an excuse. In all honesty it is really hindering me at the moment. I have just returned from 3 nights away from home and on Monday I fly out to Tassie only to return on Friday night.

Last week living out of the suitcase confirmed that I sabotage myself and I am not in control of my thinking nor can I make wise choices! Entrees and mains most nights with wine of course..... I am actually ashamed with myself.

Every morning I woke and said that "I will get back on track NOW" until I get to the restaurant and see others with cooked breakfast and I know that I don't want to eat a bowl of cardboard!! I did surprise myself and order poached eggs one morning but that doesn't outweigh the other damage by no means!!

I know there are good (or somewhat ok) choices on most menus - I read them and think that's what I am having until the waitress comes over to take my order and I opt for something that really tickles my fancy. Bearing in mind propoints allows for this - it doesn't allow for it on a daily basis.

I am off to Tassie next week as I mentioned. I have dinner booked every night with people from my company also!

I thought the change in programme was the fresh start that I needed but obviously I am too stupid to seize the opportunity and use a tool that is proven to work on a daily basis.

Bottom line is I know what I need to do, I know that this will work for me if I do it properly BUT for some reason I just can't do this for me.....

What is wrong with me?

Change = positivity or negativity?

2010-11-28T07:00:00.004+11:00

I have to say this last few weeks the Weight Watchers forums have been a buzz. They have come alive since the launch of the new ProPoints Programme. The reason that Weight Watchers changed the from the old Points Programme that we are used to is due to scientific research. Gone are the days of counting kilojoules and saturated fat. Research has proven the more accurate method to calculating the impact of foods taking into account how the body actually processes the different nutrients in food. Therefore the new ProPoints programme is based on protein, carbohydrates, total fat and fibre.

The change from the old Points Programme has done two things - it has brought out POSITIVITY and it has also unleashed NEGATIVITY!

The change to ProPoints has ignited the fire within many of the members, including me. It has made me rethink the way I survive daily food wise, it has made me retrain my mind to learn new points values, and it has made me excited about my weight loss journey. I am no longer in my stale points routine I am now enjoying every day thanks to ProPoints.

However, as I mentioned, the change to ProPoints has also stirred negativity amongst the troops. Many posts are full of comments such as "Why did Weight Watchers change what I am used to?", "All my cookbooks have the old points values and it's a hassle to work out the values per serve now", "my favourites in my online tracker are now useless and need to be updated", "I have to buy a new calculator", etc., etc., unfortunately the list is endless.

Having been on the programme for nearly 2 weeks I can say that I can see both the good and the bad. The good being ProPoints allows me to have more points to use daily bearing in mind that some food points values have changed also, most fresh fruit is now point free and we also have a Weekly ProPoints Allowance of 49 points to help survive the week. The bad being that I do have lots of cookbooks from the old Points Programme and I also have our cooking blog, A Dash Of Flavour, which refers to the old Points Programme which will need updating. I understand there is a "hassle" in having to convert everything but I am not going to throw away my books or stop blogging recipes just because the programme has been updated.

On the Weight Watcher's page there is a brilliant article, Spending Your Spontaneity Stash, which explains the 49 extra points we now have to use.

Basically Weight Watchers presented us a new programme that does fit into our lifestyle no matter what we face day to day. As we all know the rigidness of some diets make losing weight impossible and unenjoyable whereas ProPoints is giving us a "stash of points" to help us enjoy planned or spontaneous occasions without blowing all the other good work we have done.

The article suggests you can use your "stash" in 5 ways such as dividing your weekly ProPoints allowance into seven and add 7 ProPoints values to your daily allowance. Plan to use your "stash" if you know you have something special to do in the week ahead when you are doing your weekly planning. Use the whole entire weekly allowance for a special event such as a wedding or birthday so you can enjoy yourself without guilt. Enjoy yourself next time you go to a restaurant and splurge on something you want to try not something that is good points wise or use your weekly allowance to cure a craving for sweets, etc.

What ever way you choose the weekly allowance is there to help us but it doesn't mean you have to use them either. It's purely up to the individual and your hunger levels.

There are many ways you can use your 'stash' but the most important thing to remember is to use your daily ProPoints allowance on GOOD FOOD - food that is filling and healthy and satisfies you.

Along with the daily allowance and the weekly allowance you still have activity points that can be used for food also if you choose to use them.

Whatever your choice is - I chose to embrace the change POSITIVELY!!!

A surprise..... to say the least!

2010-11-24T10:39:00.005+11:00

To my surprise I found an email in my inbox recently which had a subject line of "This Little Piggy" and it was from someone who's name I didn't recognise at all.

Curiously I opened the email and to my surprise it was someone contacting me to tell me about this blog post, 60 Amazing Blogs for Weight Watchers Support on their blog. Naturally I had to go and read their post and hooley dooley to my astonishment this blog, my blog "This Little Piggy" made the list!!

The American based blog, Nursing Schools, is an amazing collection of information, topics and more importantly links to other various sources relating to the daily broad range of topics. I highly recommend that you have a look at Nursing Schools as it is very well organized and I have just added to my favourites list also.

So thank you Ken for bringing the blog and the post to my attention and although I am still surprised I am honoured to be mentioned in your post, 60 Amazing Blogs for Weight Loss Support.

Success with ProPoints - Week 1

2010-11-23T09:04:00.001+11:00

I was very excited to try the new programme last week and have to admit that I was also a little worried. But doing the right thing and positively embracing change made the transition easier.

There is a HUGE difference with this programme. Unlike any other Weight Watchers programme we now have higher daily points allowance to eat (although all the points values for food and drinks have been change - some higher and some lower), we also have a weekly ProPoints allowance of 49 which we are allowed to eat and fruit now has a points value of 0.
AND IT'S BRILLIANT.

I faced the challenge of working away from home which means hotel food plus we went out for dinner twice and lunch once all on the same weekend. I have to say I ate all my points and all of my weekly allowance and still managed to lose weight!

While some of my food choices were not the best it is good knowing that this programme actually fits into MY life and I am now not trying to fit my life into the programme, if that makes any sense. I actually tracked everything, something I am guilty of not doing all that honestly in the past and best of all for the first time in I don't know how long I have eaten fruit every day (before it was a last option due to the points values)!!

Without any further adieu.....

Drum roll please.........

This week I lost 1.7kgs!!

I am so excited and have to say, although surprise at the amount I lost, I love the new ProPoints Programme. I am definitely starting week 2 off on a positive note......

Weight Watchers ProPoints.... is HERE!!!

2010-11-16T11:35:00.007+11:00

Last night at my Weight Watcher's meeting we FINALLY receive our new programme package, ProPoints, and I must say I am EXCITED!!! I have been reading up about the programme here, there and everywhere and I have to be honest I have been counting the days until we got access to it.

Not only will points values change and there will be a lot of reprogramming my brain which is imprinted with so many previous points values but I am taking this as a chance for a fresh start - you know once again wipe the slate clean and start again. In fact I was given a new passbook that starts with WEEK 1!!!!

I did also manage a 500g loss this week which was brilliant considering I lived out of a motel for 3 nights last week and I know some of my choices were definitely not the best!

HOWEVER: Total loss on the old points system.... 5.8kgs in a ridiculous 60 weeks. Just under 100 grams a week!! I know it is Weight Watchers want you to loose weight at a slow and steady pace but that is just taking the piss a little I think!

So as of today I am back to 100% tracking and 200% honestly and have decided that my time has come!! My time has come to complete this weight loss journey and achieve what I really want to achieve.... GOAL WEIGHT!!

WOOHOO.... bring it on I say!

600 grams gone....... but where and how?

2010-10-26T12:46:00.001+11:00

Last night saw a loss of 600 grams on the scales... a good result but a surprising one! I am not complaining though.

Mind you I need to get back to 100% tracking and 100% of being focussed and motivated.

Back of track starts.... NOW!!!

Week 3 Round up....

2010-10-13T11:03:00.003+11:00

I have been very busy and while I haven't been tracking my daily food here I will be honest and say that I am still writing down everything in my journal. Being time poor at the moment the duplication really isn't warranted, I am sure you would agree.

While I had another busy week with a wedding I didn manage to lose 700 grams falling short by 100 grams of losing last weeks gain. I was really happy with that outcome and it brings me back in line with my set challenge of losing 5kgs in 6 weeks.

This 4th week is another busy one and I face the added challenge of having my cousins, Dennis and Pam, staying with me from Tuesday through to Sunday. Food shouldn't be a problem at all but the drink will.... I must say one downfall of being Welsh is loving the grog!

Current challenge loss... 1.8kgs.

Week 2 ~ Days 3 to 7 plus weigh in result!!

2010-10-05T11:33:00.003+11:00

Okay so I got busy again this week and haven't posted so here is what the rest of the week looked like.

Day 3:

Breakfast - 5.5pts
1/4 cup skim milk (and coffee) - 0.5pts
Cheese and Salad Roll (from bakery) - 5pts

Lunch - 4.5pts:
Authentic Asia Prawn Wonton and Noodle Soup with extra veg - 4.5pts

Dinner - 9pts:
Lamb Stew - 6 pts
2 glasses white wine - 3pts

Total: 19/19pts

Exercise points: 3.5pts

Steps for the day: 15739 including 1 hour of Zumba

Day 4:

Breakfast - 6pts:
1 x Yakult Light - 0.5pts
Egg Lettuce and Mayo Sandwich - 5 pts
1/4 cup skim milk (and coffee) - 0.5pts

Lunch - 5 pts:
Cheese and Salad Roll - 5 pts

Dinner - 8.5pts:
STGTBT Indian Chicken Tikka - 5 pts
1/2 cup Steamed rice - 2.5pts
2 small pappadums (microwaved) - 1pts

Points: 19.5/19

Exercise Points: 1pts

Steps for day: 9093

Day 5: GRAND FINAL REPLAY

Breakfast - 4.5pts:
1 x Yakult Light - 0.5pts
1/4 cup skim milk (and coffee) - 0.5pts
1/2cup spaghetti in tomato sauce - 1.5pts
2 x multigrain bread toasted - 2 pts

Lunch - 2pts:
1 x Banana - 1pts
1 x forme yoghurt 200g tub - 1pts

Dinner - 18pts:
Take away pizza - 12pts
White wine - 6 pts

Points total: 24.5/19

Exercise points: 5pts

Steps for the day: 17943

Could have made wiser choices but I didn't - no further comment!!!

Day 6:

Breakfast:
1 x Yakult Light - 0.5pts
1/4 cup skim milk (and coffee) - 0.5pts
2 x multigrain bread toasted - 2pts
2 x XL poached eggs - 4pts

Lunch - 0pts:
Refer dinner - ate lunch at 3pm

Dinner - 26pts:
New Graziers Steakhouse, Stamford Inn.
Wagyu Rump Steak with avocado and hollandaise sauce, coleslaw and chips
White wine

WHAT WAS I THINKING?????? A VERY WEAK MOMENT INDEED!!!!! Very bad habits of ordering what I really liked the sound of instead of ordering something that was more better suited to a weight loss journey.

Total Points: 33/19

Exercise points: 3.5

Steps for today: 13878

Day 7:

Breakfast - 3pts:
1 x Yakult Light - 0.5pts
1/4 cup skim milk (and coffee) - 0.5pts
1 x banana - 1pts
1 x 200g tub Forme - 1 pts

Lunch - 5pts:
Lean Cuisine Chicken Florentine with linguine - 5pts

Dinner - 13 pts (after weigh-in):
Eggs, Beans, Chips and Chipolata - 13pts

Points for day: 21/19

Exercise Points: 1.5pts

Steps for today: 8641

Summary - I have had a busy and unorganised week. The school holidays have thrown me and I failed. Thankfully back to school as of yesterday and my beloved routine has returned.

The result of an unorganised week, bad food choices and an overindulgent week before saw a gain of 0.8kgs on the scales but I am okay with that.

Total lost in 2 weeks: 1.1kgs.

Today is a fresh start - the beginning of a new week.

Week 2 Day 2

2010-09-29T07:00:00.004+10:00

Today was my first day since starting my 6 week challenge that I spent the day in the car! And of course the day started off dramatically with me waking up late and needing to be on the road almost instantly.

I did okay considering but could have done a LOT better.

Breakfast ~ 5.5 pts:
1/4 cup skim milk (plus 1 coffee) - 0.5pts
Ham cheese and tomato sandwich on Rye (from takeaway shop) - 5pts

Lunch - 8pts:
1/2 box noodles from noodle shop - 8pts
diet coke - 0pts

Dinner - 8 pts:
Hot and Saucy Steak (STGTBT) - 5pts
Potato, Carrot and Onion Bake - 3pts
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes - 0pts

Total: 21.5/19

Exercise Points - 1pts

Steps for today: 9101

Lesson learnt today - I NEED TO BE ORGANISED!!!!

Week 2 Day 1

2010-09-28T08:08:00.005+10:00

Here is today's food tracker:

Breakfast - 4.0pts:
40 grams cereal - 2.5pts
forme yoghurt small tub - 1 pt
1/4 cup skim milk and coffee - 0.5pts

Lunch - 3pts:
Lamb and Salad with Balsamic Dressing - 3pts

Dinner - 8pts
Chicken Pomodoro Parcel - 5.5pts
Garlic and rosemary smashed potatoes - 2 pts
Coleslaw - 0.5pts

Snacks - 3.5pts:
2 x Finn Crisp Originals - 1.5pts
1 x 40g Philly Extra Light Cream Cheese - 2pts

Total: 18.5/19 pts

Exercise 0pts:
Total steps for day: 6576

Plus I managed an hour of very relaxed swimming at the local pool with the kids.

Week 1 Day 7 and weigh in.....

2010-09-27T15:21:00.006+10:00

Back to normality and routine today... the anniversary is over for another year!!

Not only is today the last day of week one but it's also D-Day where I get to face the scales at my meeting at 5pm. Vera isn't joining me tonight as she has something she needs to do with her family but I am going to brave the scales. I have too............

Here is today's food tracker:

Breakfast - 4.5pts:
1 x yakult light - 0.5pts
40 grams cereal - 2.5pts
forme yoghurt small tub - 1 pt
1/4 cup skim milk and coffee - 0.5pts

Lunch - 5pts:
Cheese and Salad Roll - 5pts

Dinner - 9pts
Roast Lamb with potatoes, pumpkin, carrots and broccoli, mint sauce and gravy - 9pts

Snacks - 0.5pts:
1 punnet strawberries - 0.5pts

Total: 20/20 pts

Exercise 0pts:
Total steps for day: 5766

And the much awaited outcome....... tonight the scales showed -1.9kgs!!! OMG what an outcome.... I am VERY VERY HAPPY!!

Bring on week 2....

Week 1 Day 4 ~ 6

2010-09-27T11:41:00.003+10:00

Okay so I got a little busy and I haven't updated this blog... that's not to say that I haven't tried to remain focussed and on track since day 3 as I have although we were celebrating our wedding anniversary.

While it wasn't a huge milestone such as a 50th, we believe it is... firstly and sadly NONE of our friend's marriages have lasted this long - in fact not many marriages in these times last this long. So we are pretty chuffed with ourselves and the fact that after 17 years of marriage (and 21 years together) we can still say we "adore" each other because we DO!!

Any how celebrating of course means food and the accompanying alcohol!!! I did keep an eye on my points and did slip over but not to badly I don't think.

We started the weekend off with home made pizza's on Friday night - something quick and easy.

Week 1 Day 4:

Breakfast - 4.5pts:
1 x yakult light - 0.5pts
1/4 cup skim milk and coffee - 0.5pts
40 grams cereal - 2.5pts
1 x forme mango - 1pts

Lunch - 7pts:
Nando's wrap - 7pts

Dinner - 5pts
Spicy Lamb Flatbread Pizza - 5pts

Snacks - 4.0pts:
White wine - 4pts

Total: 20.5/20 pts

Exercise 1pts:
Total steps for day: 8829

Saturday was a busy day, not only was it our actual wedding anniversary but it was also Grand Final day for the AFL so we needed to get everything done so we could all sit down and watch our favourite team, the Saints!!

We went shopping firstly to Springvale to pick up some seafood and fresh herbs, then on to Moorabbin to pick up the crayfish and prawns for our seafood platter. We decided we would splurge but there would be nothing deep fried or even crumbed on the platter - all seafood fresh served either hot or cold and with salad.

Week 1 Day 5:

Breakfast - 1pts:
1 x yakult light - 0.5pts
1/4 cup skim milk and coffee - 0.5pts

Brunch - 8pts:
Spinach Mushroom and Cheese Omelette - 8pts

Dinner - 10pts
Seafood platter - all fresh seafood hot and cold - 10pts

Snacks - 5.0pts:
White wine - 5pts

Total: 24/20 pts

Exercise - 1.5pts
Total steps for day: 9806

The weekend came to an end with Noel taking the kids and I out for dinner after spending an hour walking along the foreshore at Frankston Beach.... the weather was glorious and we weren't going to waste the afternoon especially as we had all made a huge effort cleaning the house in the morning. I chose something that I wanted for dinner although it did have a creamy sauce (and this will be something I am going to try and re-create at home as it was delish). I decided to use the 9 point rule on my dinner as I did team it with salad.

Week 1 Day 6:

Breakfast - 1.5pts:
1 x yakult light - 0.5pts
1/2 cup skim milk and coffee - 1pts

Lunch - 4pts:
Red Curry Mussels - 4pts

Dinner - 9pts
*9 point rule*
Kelly's hotel - Chicken Gracie and Salad

Snacks - 4.0pts:
White wine - 4 pts

Total: 19.5/20 pts

Exercise 5pts:
Total steps for day: 19205

YES I did have a brilliant weekend end and wonder what the scales will say to me tonight!!!! I shall let you know........

Week 1 Day 3 and an extra challenge...

2010-09-23T09:59:00.004+10:00

I am up to day 3 of the first challenged week.

Tonight we had no children with them both staying at Nana and Grandad's as it's school holidays and as it's our wedding anniversary as well as the AFL Grand Final on Saturday Noel took the opportunity to take me out for dinner tonight. We went to a local modern Asian restaurant called Ginseng and it was nice but I didn't stress over the points but did indulge in some foods I probably shouldn't have. One good decision we made was not to order any rice or noodles just order the main meals themselves so I guess that's a positive from the night.

So here is what today's food tracker looked like:

Breakfast - 6pts:
1 x yakult light - 0.5pts
1/4 cup skim milk and coffee - 0.5pts
1 x Cheese and Salad Roll (Vietnamese bakery) - 5pts

Lunch - 3pts:
La Zuppa Spinach and Chickpea Soup - 3pts

Dinner - 20pts
Ginseng Chinese Restaurant
Shared the following:
~ Wasabi Bacon King Prawns (entree)
~ Pandan Chicken (entree)
~ Peking Duck
~ Tai Chi Beef Fillet
~ Prawns in Saigon Tamarind Sauce

Note: Only guessing the points damage ~ but I didn't eat it all myself!

Snacks - 7.0pts:
White wine - 7 pts

Total: 36/20 pts

Exercise 0pts:

Total steps for day: 5513

Total for day: 36pts

Okay definitely over the points tonight but hey I am human and tomorrow will be a new day!

Week 1 Day 2

2010-09-22T08:40:00.004+10:00

I survived yesterday and even though I went over by 1 point I am going to claim victory.

So here is today's tracker:

Breakfast - 4.5pts:
1 x yakult light - 0.5pts
40 grams cereal - 2.5pts
forme yoghurt small tub - 1 pt
1/4 cup skim milk and coffee - 0.5pts

Lunch - 5pts:
Left over cauliflower cheese - 4pts
Chilli sauce - 1pt

Dinner - 6pts
Springtime Lamb Casserole - 6pts

Snacks - 4pts:
1 punnet strawberries - 0.5pts
2 x finn crisp original - 1.5pts
1 x 40g light philli - 2pts

Total: 19.5/20 pts

Exercise 0.5pts:

Total steps for day: 6725

Total for day: 19pts

Feeling really good - day 2 down and dusted.....

Week 1 Day 1

2010-09-21T11:04:00.006+10:00

Okay so 5kgs in 6 weeks.... with the main focus on tracking!!

So here is today's tracker:

Breakfast - 5pts:
1 x yakult light - 0.5pts
40 grams cereal - 2.5pts
forme yoghurt small tub - 1 pt
1/4 cup skim milk and coffee - 0.5pts
1 punnet strawberries - 0.5pts

Lunch - 4.5pts:
Authentic Asian Prawn Wonton Soup with Noodles - 4.5pts

Dinner - 7pts
Crunchy Nut Chicken - 4.5pts
Cauliflower Cheese - 2.5pts
Carrots - 0pts
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes - 0pts

Snacks - 5pts:
1 x WW Nibbles - 1pts
1 x Chocolate Yogo - 2 pts (not sure why I ate this?)
1 x white wine and soda - 2pts

Total: 21.5/20 pts

Exercise 0.5pts:
10 min walk
Total steps for day: 7726

So I went over by 1 point today but I am REALLY REALLY HAPPY with myself!!

Super Sam has challenged me... 5 kgs in 6 weeks

2010-09-21T09:30:00.001+10:00

My lovely leader Super Sam sat with me after our meeting last night as I needed to ask for help!

After weeks of yo-yoing with weight loss then weight gain I really felt I needed to sit and chat with her.

The ever lovely Sam told me she knows that I can do this and said that she has faith in me!! Feeling better we then discussed what should be the next step.

Besides getting back on track and losing weight being my ultimate goals Sam challenged me to set a goal and stick to it. Sam set the time frame of 6 weeks and asked me what I would like to achieve. 5kgs sounds achievable and considering my social life from hell in the next 3 months it's something that will help me focus.

Now today is Day 1 and I am armed with my food and my tracker.

I will not fail - I won't let myself!!

Sam if you read this - thankyou!!

Getting serious .....

2010-09-20T09:12:00.003+10:00

It's about time I got serious about this weight loss caper and did it properly.

I am going back to my meeting tonight at 5pm and will have a good chat to Super Sam afterwards. I need to get back on the wagon or I know I will stay on this downward spiral and be miserable about my lack of efforts when my birthday comes around in January. (Remember I did set myself my goal of being at goal weight for my birthday!!)

Needless to say it's now time to pull my finger out and focus..... it will only happen if I make it happen and I am the only one that can do that, right?

Project "ME" became Project "MEltdown"

2010-09-15T09:31:00.004+10:00

Yep you read the title of this post correct!!

ME turned into MEltdown with me completely falling off the wagon and having what I can only describe as a food and alcohol fest last week while travelling with work!

I didn't weigh in on Monday evening and it's not because I couldn't - it's because I just didn't want to face the scales. Isn't it strange how we can all be terrified of seeing those numbers especially when we fear they will be on the rise?

OK so what's next????

CHANGE is next and quick smart. I cannot continue doing this without it having any consequence to me! I know this needs to be done it's just a matter of me doing it!

SO HOW IS IT GOING TO HAPPEN? It's going to happen because I am going to make it happen. Infact last night I started. I went to Zumba with my lovely friend Tanya and that was an hour where not only did I work up a sweat but I felt great that I was doing something for me.

Feel free to BOOT me up the BUM when I falter... I need all the help I can get!!

Project "ME" - still plodding along....

2010-08-10T08:57:00.002+10:00

I haven't given up nor I am avoiding blogging my progress... as I mentioned 3 weeks ago I was going to be quite busy and honestly I have been.

Not to busy though to stop and think about some things I have been tempted to do (mind you only some things!!) BUT I haven't been 100% focussed either.

Not that I want to use excuses but between having my mam staying with us, two work trips (both overnight), my cousins visiting, a few dinners here and there, junior football - infact the list can go on and on.... bottom line is they were all my choices, right?

I didn't go to my meeting last night or in fact, last week either! I weighed last night and was down 1.6kgs since my last weigh in... so that's not too shabby and I will take the loss.

Start Weight (SW): 93.9kgs
Goal Weight (GW): 59kgs
Current Weight (CW): 87.4kgs
Total loss (TL): -6.5 kgs
Left Arm: 35cms (-0.0cms)
Right Arm: 35.5cms (-0.5cms)
Bust: 118cms (-2.0cms)
Waist: 112cms (-2.0cms)
Hips: 114cms (-0.0cms)
Left Thigh: 61cms (-1.0cms)
Right Thigh: 60.5cms (-0.5cms)

Some little changes... thankfully all in the right direction.

PLANS FOR THIS WEEK:

~ track 100%
~ ensure I have enough water
~ stick to my menu plan
~ choose wisely on Thursday night at the pub
~ cut down my alcohol intake
~ take healthy food to the football club so I don't eat/pick all day.

Until my next post.... take care and please vibe me all the spare support and motivation you have lying around.... hahahaha

Project "ME" ~ Week 1 Roundup

2010-07-20T09:23:00.004+10:00

Just wanted to share, boast, brag, whatever I can call my success this week.

Last week I started a new project - "Project Me"... the aim of this project was to put myself first and get back on track with this weight loss caper. I was going to post an entry daily but at the moment it's not possible with everything that is going on so a weekly round up with have to do.

While I wasn't perfect last week I managed to give some to myself (a little me time here and there) I stood on the scales last night and saw a 2.2kgs loss. Woohoo... shall take ownership of that for sure.

Start Weight (SW): 93.9kgs
Goal Weight (GW): 59kgs
Current Weight (CW): 89.0kgs
Total loss (TL): -4.9 kgs
Left Arm: 35cms (-0.0cms)
Right Arm: 35.5cms (-0.5cms)
Bust: 119cms (-1.0cms)
Waist: 113cms (-1.0cms)
Hips: 114cms (-0.0cms)
Left Thigh: 62cms (-0.0cms)
Right Thigh: 60.5cms (-0.5cms)

However the next coming weeks will be hard with family/social functions and the fact that my mam is coming to stay with us for 3 weeks. I know the food won't be the issue it's the liquid refreshments that are the killers!!

Oh well I shall have to use this good start as a motivating factor and try to remain as focussed as possible.

All in all, I am not going to give up on this weight loss caper or on me!!!

Project Me - week 2 here I come!

Project "ME" - day 1

2010-07-13T09:36:00.003+10:00

Alrighty enough of my ranting time to get going.....

Day 1 - what will it bring????

Well as you have probably guessed with the previous post that I have woken up this morning determined and focussed on me and my weight loss journey.

I have taken my measurements (something that I don't think I have ever done properly) and for all the world to see here my Project "ME" starting statistics:

Start Weight (SW): 93.9kgs
Goal Weight (GW): 59kgs
Current Weight (CW): 91.2kgs
Total loss (TL): -2 .7 kgs
Left Arm: 35cms
Right Arm: 36cms
Bust: 120cms
Waist: 114cms
Hips: 114cms
Left Thigh: 62cms
Right Thigh: 61cms

This is all good and well but what do I have planned:

Daily tracking - 100% truth
Water - 2 - 3 litres per day
Exercise - at least 10 minutes each day
Steps - aim +10000 steps per day
Limit alcohol
Remove excuses, negativity and bad thoughts!!!

Sounds easy I know... but I also know it's going to be a hard road but it's one that I have to travel......

Project "ME"

2010-07-13T09:00:00.003+10:00

Ok so another week's weigh in produced another gain.... not happy but not upset as once again it was mostly deserved.

My Adelaide trip wasn't exactly how I planned as I didn't stick to my guns and choose the healthiest choices where possible, plus the added bonus of it being TTOM welcomed a gain of 1.2kgs.

No I am not going to prop myself up with these excuses nor do I condon my behaviour but reality is - it's done, nothing can change last week and it's outcome so I only have one option left - move on!! Moving on as of this morning..... yep - right NOW!!

You have heard me bang on and bang on and bang on before about a fresh start, a clean slate, etc., etc., in fact I know myself that I do sound like a broken record and wouldn't actually blame anyone for not having any faith in me. Although I have fallen off the wagon many times I haven't truly given up on myself and my dream of being happy and having a healthy body so I guess that's one good thing, right? I know that I have to change, I know that I need to become healthy and for my own sanity, as I mentioned before, I need to get myself into a position where I can look at myself and think "that I am looking and feeling good" and more importantly "that I LIKE MYSELF"!

So from today onwards I have started myself a new project... Project "ME".

This project is going to take a 200% effort and I am the only one that can make that effort... no-one else can. I can be supported, motivated and encouraged but IT IS ME THAT HAS TO MAKE THE EFFORT!!

I need to put my needs both physically and emotionally first. I need to say that all this is worth it for not only me but for my family also. There are no second chances at life and being nearly 40 I have spent half of my life fat and unhappy - I don't want to play this game feeling like this anymore. I want to wake up and want to face life not suffer through the day.

The only way this is going to happen is IF I MAKE IT HAPPEN!

AND I AM GOING TO MAKE IT HAPPEN!!

From this day forward.....

2010-07-06T09:22:00.003+10:00

Well as I mentioned yesterday was my day of recogning... the time to face the scales was upon me and I did go to my meeting. It was such a good feeling to be amongst the group again... even Super Sam, my awesome leader, told me that she had missed me which made me feel important.

The scales were kinder to me than I had imagined even though it's hard to fathom any gain as a kind thing. It had been 4 weeks since my last official weigh-in with a public holiday and managing to be caught up at work during meeting times.

So the result - A 2KG GAIN!!

My response was mixed.

Firstly thankful it was ONLY 2kgs.

Secondly annoyed.

And finally, encouraged. Encouraged to get back on track, start afresh and make myself some promises that I will keep, set some goals that I will achieve but most importantly make the decision that if I am going to do this then I have to do it properly.

Bottom line not only do I need to lose weight for health reasons but I need to lose weight in order to keep my sanity. I can no longer battle the emotional demons that have taken up residence within my mind. I have to learn to love me for who I am but I know that I cannot do this while I am disgusted in myself and ashamed of what I have become. Behind my bubbly happy go lucky exterior is a person filled with self hatred, self doubt, embarrassment and low self esteem - not that you would think this but I truly am. This has to change and it's going to change as of today.

It's going to take a long time, I am not niave to that fact. But it will take even longer if I don't pull myself together and face it head on. No more "I'll start again tomorrow", no more "only a little won't hurt", no more excuses....

This is my life and I only have one so I need to reclaim it and make it the best life it can be for me.

"The clock of life is wound but once,

and no man has the power

to tell just when the hands will stop,

at late or early hour.

Now is the only time you own

Live, love, toil with a will

Place no faith in time

For the clock may soon be still"

~annoymous

Let the final weight battle begin....

Moment of truth....

2010-07-05T14:59:00.001+10:00

Today is my moment of truth day as it's weigh in.. haven't been to meetings for a few weeks as I have been busy with work and although I have tried to remain good the focus just hasn't been there and I have had several - to be honest a LOT - of blowouts!!

Anyway, even though I am still busy with work (and have a lot of travelling to do in the near future which means hotel food) I know that I need to get with the program and focus on this weight loss caper.

And I know that the only way I can do this is if I stay focussed, motivated and committed. I have vowed to get to my goal for my 40th birthday in January and for my own sanity I need to be at goal or I think my birthday present will be a breakdown!!

I am soooooo over being FAT!! And it's got to change RIGHT NOW!!

Mind Games!

2010-06-17T14:42:00.005+10:00

Just wanted to say I am lurking but not really playing the weight loss game properly as I am really disappointed with myself and my attitude at the moment. I haven't completely fallen off the wagon - I am hanging on just by my fingernails and it sure has been a bumpy ride this last week or two.

The mind games have started so have the "I'll get back on track again tomorrow" chants which do no end but harm! I wake up and tell myself that today is a new day and it's going to happen but my mind has other plans and tells me to go to the shop and buy crap instead of making myself a nice lunch... I am sure you all know how it goes?

The only problem is I don't know how I ended up feeling like this AGAIN?? I was doing really well - taking ownership and actually realising what I was and wasn't doing. Not to mention I was feeling really good within myself... now I am depressed and unhappy!

BUT NOW I need to snap out of feeling like this, any suggestions?

Here I go again....

2010-06-08T08:33:00.003+10:00

Up and down, up and down, like a bloody yo-yo... yep you all know what I am talking about my weight and the numbers on the scales.

I do really good one week and do really bad the next. I have brilliant motivation for the first day of the second week and then it all goes down hill from there. I have to break this yo-yo pattern. Any suggestions???

Needless to say a gain of 1.2kgs over 2 weeks (which doesn't make it sound any better) and an instand kick up the bum asking myself "why I let myself live this pattern week in, week out?"

Something has to change and I know what it is............ ME!!

It works - it really works!!

2010-05-25T10:03:00.002+10:00

Approaching the scales last night although I knew that I have had a good week I was still a little nervous.

I have taken ownership of the few slip ups I have had. Especially eating pizza and of course there was going out for dinner on Saturday night, which looking back I don't think wasn't that bad. Afterall, I ate what I wanted and stopped when I got full. I didn't over eat although I probably could have but something clicked and I stopped when I wanted to!

On the other hand I had been good too. Tracking EVERYTHING! Writing in my journal. Being honest every where I possibly could.

So the outcome - a loss of 2.3kgs this week and how do I feel? Bloody brilliant!

This week's challenge - just keep it up. Do what I did last week... SIMPLE!!

Taking ownership of eating pizza and not homemade pizza!!

2010-05-21T09:14:00.001+10:00

This morning I am taking ownership of my f@#k up last night!! And yes it is bad.

I went shopping with the kids and promised them dinner at the foodcourt as I knew we would get home late. Ollie had a kebab and Alex had fish and chips. I walked and walked around the food court only to find nothing healthy that I fancied. There was Subway and a sandwich place but didn't fancy either for dinner as I had a salad roll for lunch. The chinese there isn't that great which left McDonalds, Sandwich and Roasts, Kebabs, Chicken Shop, Fish and Chips or Noodle Box.

So I proudly decided that I would go home and cook a quick and healthy stirfry instead.

Upon getting home I had a few things to do - get the kids showered, organise lunch orders, put on some washing (their uniforms) get the kids into bed etc... by the time all of this was finished it was 9pm.

Looking at my husband who had just finished overtime... chubby hubby said "let's just get a pizza"

At that point in time I GAVE IN!!

2 slices of pizza later and I felt sick.. so oily and not even nice!

So there you have it... I fully take ownership of GETTING LAZY!!

No wonder I am fat and not getting anywhere - I just give up to easily....

Oh well today is a new day and it will be a better day!!

My doctor kicked me up the bum......

2010-05-18T11:36:00.002+10:00

Things have to change from now.... I am TAKING OWNERSHIP from here on in!

Been to the doctors this morning as I feel like I have been hit by a bus and then run over by a truck!!

All clear no cold or infection or the like but I got a real talking to about my Blood Pressure and my Blood Sugars!

My BP was quite high - infact it's the highest it has been for awhile now.

He is also not happy with my BS results over the last few weeks as they too are high.

He has said that he is not going to change my medication as he knows that they have worked BUT he did say that I MUST CHANGE MY LIFESTYLE and to take a good long look at my diet!!

He told me I looked stressed and not as relaxed as I normally am. Said that I was tense and have obviously been facing some issues lately, which I agreed and told him that I had recently faced some tough moments especially family related ones. (My doctor knows all about the feud with my sister, etc - I have cried many times with him in the past)!!

I sat in his room thinking to myself "Like I really needed this lecture right now" especially feeling down in the dumps but do you know what?

I have driven home and actually feel that I have been challenged!! And it's a different feeling... It's not me trying to push myself, it's not my family it's my doctor, who I respect greatly and am now very thankful that he said what he said as it was the kick up the bum that I honestly needed this morning.

I am back to weekly appointments now - something I dread as I had to do it for over a year to get my BP to a normal level and now because of my own actions/choices I am pretty much back where I started from, but I am going to make the effort to get everything and ME back to an acceptable level!

Weigh in last night saw a loss of 200grams... okay but I know it could have been better. Although I have been accountable for all my choices/actions this last week I still made some bad ones and the result was what it is... 200 grams nothing more and nothing less.

Today is a brand new day and I have brand new incentive.... God knows my doctor want be saying things I want to hear - he will be speaking the truth.

At peace with the cupcake but....

2010-05-11T09:21:00.004+10:00

Something Super Sam, my wonderful leader, said last night was "It's okay to be at peace with cupcake, eat the cupcake if it helps you to be at peace BUT you can do Weight Watchers and have the cupcake as well!!" Thankfully I am not a sweet tooth but I got what she was saying.

It got me to thinking about this "change of lifestyle" journey that we are all on. It's no longer a diet, infact it's somewhat of a sin to say "I am on a diet" in these times. It's a lifestyle change!!

There are no boundaries to what we can and cannot eat as long as we stay within our points when following the Weight Watchers plan. There is room to have the cupcake, the chocolate or even that glass of wine as long as we remain accountable. And to be honest that's what this is all about - being accountable to ourselves!

A fresh start this morning and I have menu planned this week out, have dusted off my tracker and found my 6 week challenge sheet given to us by Super Sam last week. Week 1 of my 6 weeks has seen an awful start of +1.5kgs but that is going to spur me on this week.

Needless to say I am at peace with the cupcake but I am officially at war with the other foods!

Taking ownership!

2010-05-11T09:12:00.001+10:00

My name is Jo and I am a ......

Does that sound familiar?

It does with me. I could actually put my hand up and say that I don't know how many times I have signed up to start this journey to give up or to just yo-yo week by week never really achieving anything.

And that's where I am now.. I have yo-yoed for many weeks always gaining and losing the same couple of kilos BUT THAT HAS TO STOP.. and it's going to.

I have had enough of giving up..

I have had enough of stuffing around...

And I know that I NEED to do this - for my health and for my family. My two children especially.

I hereby take OWNERSHIP of what I do - what I eat, what I don't, when I exercise, when I sit on my bum... basically WHAT I CHOOSE!!

I cannot keep continuing in the way I am... it's not getting me anywhere. Shock horror - I cannot expect results if I am not prepared to change!!

I had a gain this week of 1.5kgs! I have to be honest and say it was an expected gain. On Wednesday I found out that my uncle died (overseas) and that lead to several days of uncontrolled eating and drinking and then with Mother's Day which was lovely but I was battling demons over the fact the my only sister and I don't talk - and she doesn't know about our uncle - in fact she didn't even contact our mam to wish her a happy mothers day - I must say pi$$ed me off and of course I turned to food.

So I DESERVED my result last night... not because of excuses but because I allowed myself to fail. I let myself loose and as a loose cannon I took it all... and then some!!

Today is a new day and it's also going to be my fresh start! I will do this and prove everyone wrong - yes everyone including my family.

Sorry for the outburst... but I needed to put it out there - it's like talking to a brick wall when it comes to my family (although I love them to bits!)

A small loss but it's a loss

2010-04-20T08:29:00.002+10:00

Well after a week of tracking and tracking everything good, bad and yes the ugly, I am pleased to report not only do I feel better about being honest but also that I had a small loss of 200g. I know you are all thinking "it doesn't matter how much it's a loss" and that's what I am thinking too but considering I did blow out a couple of times I am more surprised that I did loose.

Last week was a hard week emotional wise and while dealing with these emotions I am also getting back into the swing of Sunday football. I can handle watching the football it's the canteen I cannot handle especially when I am working in there. All I seem to do is pick, particularly on the hot chips!! Oh well I will need to get that under control!!

In the meantime though, I promise to track again this week and although I am still facing some issues I am going to be brave and move forward positively!!

I brought a Weight Watchers Journal.... I'm excited!

2010-04-13T11:44:00.004+10:00

Although uneventfull as that sounds - it really is quite an event. I forgot to write about it last night as I was still gobsmacked from my loss!! Even now I still cannot believe I lost 1.4kgs.

I am a "sometimes" tracker... I start then stop then start again struggling to remember what I actually did it and there fore I don't think I can say that I actually have ever tracked properly!!

During our meeting last night we were discussing the importance of tracking and I admitted to buying the tracker as a means to getting back on track. "Super Sam" my leader offered to have a look at my tracker next week to see how I went... and do you know what? I want her too!!!

I had my breakfast and guess what I have did? Yep - I wrote in my tracker!! LOL!! Infact I cannot stop picking it up and I have it sitting right next to me.... who would have thought?

Strangely this little spiral bound 12 week journal has brought me some motivation and obviously my decision to purchase one and commit came at the exacted required time.

Who else tracks religiously? Who is a part time tracker? Who doesn't track at all? I know that we are all different but I think this may just hold the key to my success...

An interesting result...

2010-04-12T22:27:00.002+10:00

Ok so I had a little rant this morning regarding my half arsed recent attempts (well they were actually less than half arsed) but I must say my weigh in tonight brought not only an interesting result but also a new found hope... a new hope that hopefully turns out to be the kick up the bum that I need at the moment.

Anyway let's not worry about my bum and the inpact the boot up it will create - the most important thing for tonight's discussion is the weigh in result... -1.4kgs!!! A loss that I truly cannot believe.. but will take graciously!!

I must work hard this week....

Failed 44 Day Challenge......

2010-04-12T13:05:00.002+10:00

Although I thought I could do this - once again I have failed a challenge that I have set myself. What is wrong with me? I want to do this but something inside my head doesn't or more to the point WON'T!!!

The last few days I have had eratic eating especially yesterday whilst up the football club and I was helping out in the canteen. Infact I was in control of the deep fryer but out of control as to what I ate!!

I am going to my meeting tonight, not that I really want to weigh in but because I want to speak with my leader and see if something will hit a nerve or if she will knock some sense into me!! LOL!!

At my meeting tonight I am also going to buy a tracker book.. only so it's with me all the time in my bag. I do track on line - when I am on my computer at home as I have no access to the online tracker at work. And I know that I am not tracking 100% truthfully because I DO lie at the end of the day or I just forget to enter it the next day, etc. A bit like not blogging my food daily on here... some days I am very time poor and therefore have a few days to remember at a time.

Although I am admitting defeat on this challenge, I am not admitting defeat on weigh loss. I will not give up until this battle has been fought and conquered!

44 Day Challenge - Days 19, 20,22 and 23

2010-04-07T14:17:00.003+10:00

Confession time... I let loose over Easter and not by a little but by A LOT!!!

I didn't focus, I didn't support myself and most of all I didn't track. I gorged when I wanted, I nibbled when I wanted and just didn't care for one second what I was doing.

Saturday night was dinner at the Lynbrook Hotel - an all you can eat buffet!!! No more explaining required.

Sunday wasn't too bad however too many wines again. Roast Pork turned into pasta for dinner as chubby hubby wasn't feeling to good and didn't want the big dinner.

Monday saw a day trip to Phillip Island and lunch at the Isle Of Wight in Cowes. A beautiful meal - 3 of us having parmas - Alex a traditional parma, Oliver a meatlovers parma, Noel an Aussie parma and me, well I had a chicken schnitzel with garlic shrimp sauce. Of course all of us opted for the chips and salad option and boy it was all good but at the same time it was oh so bad!!

Yesterday returned to work - unprepared food wise so brought lunch which was a roll - should have been a salad roll but it wasn't, not saying anymore!! We did end up with the roast pork last night - complete with crackle, roast potatoes, mashed potatoes, carrots, broccoli, brussel sprouts, apple sauce and gravy - little piggy here managed a HUGE serve!!

Today I am getting back on track but fear that MAJOR DAMAGE has been done. Weigh-in is on Monday night and I am fearful that if I do not get back on track and stay on track the outcome will be terrible and although I will not like it I know that I do deserve it!!

I promise to get back to tracking as off 1st thing tomorrow morning.......

44 Day Challenge - Day 18

2010-04-07T14:15:00.001+10:00

Today is Good Friday and following how I was brought up with Christian beliefs no meat for us today. I don’t mind this – infact I would love to eat fish every Friday but that idea isn’t sitting well with the other family members at all.

Day 18 - Friday

Breakfast: 5.5pts
Skim milk 0.5pts
Coffee 0pts
2 eggs 3pts
2 bread toasted 2 pts

Lunch: 2 pts
2 Finn Crisps 1pt
2 Bexlight Cheese Slice 1pt
Sliced tomato 0pts

Dinner: 5.5pts
Seafood and Vegetable Parcels 5.5pts

Other: ??pts
White wine – toooo many

Total points for day: no tally

Exercise - 9134 steps = 1.5pts

Too much wine which I can honestly say I lost count on the glasses not out of drunkness just out of relaxation and not caring – however all were mixed with soda!!!

44 Day Challenge - Day 17

2010-04-07T13:55:00.001+10:00

Okay so I have been a little slack with posting my daily foods…. It’s not that I have been avoiding doing so – I have just been so busy with Easter etc so here is the huge catch up and the honesty that needs to accompany it.

Day 17 - Thursday

Breakfast: 4pts
Skim milk 0.5pts
Coffee 0pts
Porridge 2ts
Fruit Salad 1.5pts

Snack: 2pts
2 x Finn Crisps 1pt
2 x Bexlight Cheese Slices 1pt

Lunch: 4.5 pts
Pea and Ham Soup 4.5pt

Dinner: 13.5pts
Chicken Taco Bake 6.5pts
Mexican Rice 3pts
White Wine x 4 (mixed with soda) 4pts

Total points for day: 24pts

Exercise - 12778 steps = 3pts

As you can see I am over by 2 pts today… I thought I was going well but dinner was the beginning of what can only be summed up as ANOTHER bad weekend.

44 Day Challenge Day 16

2010-03-31T16:13:00.004+11:00

I had to do some driving today with work and also attend a committee meeting tonight so it has definitely a bit of a sit on my bum day. However I decided that I still need to make it to +10000 steps and wasn't going to give up until it was done.

Breakfast: 6.5pts
Skim milk 0.5pts
Coffee 0pts
2 x multigrain bread 2pts
50g chicken supreme 2
1 x aldi cheese slice 0.5pts
1/4 avocado 1.5pts

Lunch: 5 pts
Vietnamese Chicken and Salad Roll - 5pts

Dinner: 9pts
Spaghetti Matriciana - 5pts
White Wine x 4 (mixed with soda) 4pts

Total points for day: 20.5

Exercise - 10009 steps = 2pts

44 Day Challenge Day 15 ~ Back on the Wagon

2010-03-31T15:59:00.002+11:00

Well as you can imagine I am slightly peeved off with myself.... NOT HAPPY JAN!! That's for sure. All my hard work undone because fatso here cannot make good decisions on the weekends!!

Today I have started afresh and got back on track. I cannot change what has been done but I can make better decisions/choices in the future.

Breakfast: 3.5 pts
Skim milk 0.5pts
Coffee 0pts
Porridge 2pts
Fruit Salad 1pt

Lunch: 5pts
Prawn Salad 3pts
Seafood Dressing (homemade) 2pts

Dinner: 10pts
Pork Cutlets with Mushroom, Vodka and Chilli Sauce
Crispy Potato slices 2pts
Bok choy 0pts

Snack: 2pts
Low fat Caramel Choc Muffin 2pts (made by Alex so I had to eat it)

Points for the day: 20.5pts (over by 1.5pts)

Steps for the day: 10464 = 2pts

See it was a better day......

44 Day Challenge Day 14 and Weigh In

2010-03-31T15:37:00.003+11:00

So I knew I was looking to a gain as my scales had already told me plus the fact that my face looked puffy just like my fingers.

My eating was much more controlled today as I am back at work which seems to keep me regimented.

Breakfast: 2.5pts
Skim Milk 0.5pts
Coffee 0pts
Porridge 2pts

Snack: 3pts
2 x Finn Crisps 1pts
30g Low Fat Hommus 2pts

Lunch: 5pts
Salad Roll 5pts

Dinner: 11pts
TBone Steak 7pts
Crispy Potatoes 2pts
Broccoli 0pts
Blue Cheese Sauce 2pts

Total Points for day is 21.5 (once again a little over)

However the bad news is the weigh in result..... a gain of 2kgs!!! I have to say I wasn't expecting that at all!!! So I have totally blown away the good result I had last week and I am now 600g heavier for it. GGGGRRRRR!!!

What is wrong with me??????

Good news though I did buy myself a new pedometre so I can monitor my stepping again.

44 Day Challenge Day 13

2010-03-31T15:28:00.002+11:00

Okay so here is the deal... I well and truly fell off the wagon today.

Bacon and Eggs for breakfast/brunch

Toasted sandwiches for dinner

No points as I cannot fathom working them out..... weigh in won't be good this week especially with not eating my points some days and going well over today.

44 Day Challenge Day 12

2010-03-31T14:31:00.003+11:00

Well this is when I fell apart and gave in to the weekend. Oliver had his party with his mates and we all went to the cinemas. No excuses will be given as these were all my choices!

Day 12: Saturday

Breakfast ~ 0.5pts
1/2 cup Skim Milk ~ 0.5pts
coffee ~ 0pts

Lunch ~ 5pts
didn't eat lunch

Dinner ~ 19pts
Burritos/Tacos ~ 10 pts
White Wine x 4 ~ 4pts (mixed with soda)

Popcorn at the movies ~ 5pts

Total points ~ 19.5pts

Water ~ 2 litres

Exercise ~ still no pedometre!!

44 Day Challenge ~ Day 11

2010-03-31T14:21:00.006+11:00

It's Oliver's birthday today and we are having the whole family over for dinner... his favourite ~ lasagne!!

Day 11: Friday

Breakfast ~ 3.5pts
1/2 cup Skim Milk ~ 0.5pts
coffee ~ 0pts
2 Finn Crisps ~ 1pt
30g Low Fat Hommus ~ 2pts

Lunch ~ 5pts
Salad Roll ~ 5pts

Dinner ~ 14.5pts
Lasagne ~ 7.5pts
Garlic Bread ~ 3pts
White Wine x 4 ~ 4pts (mixed with soda)

Total points ~ 23pts

Water ~ 2 litres

Exercise ~ still no pedometre!!

44 Day Challenge ~ Day 10

2010-03-31T14:18:00.002+11:00

Tummy still a little tender and still not feeling that hungry.

Day 10: Thursday

Breakfast ~ 0.5pts
1/2 cup Skim Milk ~ 0.5pts
coffee ~ 0pts

Lunch ~ 2pts
Fruit Salad ~ 2pts

Dinner ~ 9 pts
Devilled sausages ~ 6pts
Crispy Potatoes ~ 3pts
Brocolli ~ 0pts

Total points ~ 11.5pts

Water ~ 2 litres

Exercise ~ still no pedometre!!

44 Day Challenge ~ Day 9

2010-03-31T14:10:00.003+11:00

Not feeling the best today... bit of a tummy bug so I must say I wasn't that hungry.

Day 9: Wednesday

Breakfast ~ 0.5pts
1/2 cup Skim Milk ~ 0.5pts
coffee ~ 0pts

Lunch ~ 4 pts
Ham Sandwich:
2 x bread ~ 2pts
50g ham ~ 2 pts

Dinner ~ 11.5pts
Swedish meatballs with cream gravy ~ 6.5pts
Mashed potatoes ~ 3pts
Lingonberry Jam ~ 2pts

Total points ~ 16 pts

** Didn't eat all my points today...

Water ~ 2 litres

Exercise ~ I killed my pedometre so I don't know how many steps I actually did. How did I kill my pedometre? It fell into the toilet and I drowned it!! LMAO!!

44 Day Challene ~ Day 8

2010-03-23T10:43:00.003+11:00

Day 8: Tuesday

Breakfast ~ 4pts
1/2 cup Skim Milk ~ 0.5pts
2 bread ~ 2pts
1 egg ~ 1.5pts
coffee ~ 0pts

Lunch ~ 4pts
Left Over Prawn Laska ~ 4pts

Dinner ~ 10 pts
Japanese Beef Curry ~ 7.5pts
Steamed Rice ~ 2.5pts

Total points ~ 18 pts

Water ~ 1 litres

Exercise ~ 1.5pts earned
Pedometer steps ~ 8403 = 1.5pts

Weigh In Result....

2010-03-23T10:11:00.003+11:00

Well I must say that after the week I have had, where I did lose focus a little I had a great result on the scales... -1.2kgs in fact.

I have nearly chipped away at the previous gain (1.5kgs over a two week period) which is really good.

Now to keep on track for the remainder of the 44 days.... I know I can do this.

44 Day Challenge ~ Day 7

2010-03-22T14:17:00.004+11:00

Well it's weigh in day for me so I guess the outcome of the last week including my weekend splurge will be there on the scales tonight.... geeez I don't even know how I feel at the moment.

Day 7: Monday

Breakfast ~ 3pts
2 Finn Crisp rounds ~ 1pts
30grams Low Fat Hommus ~ 2pts

Lunch ~ 6pts
Vietnamese Chicken and Salad Roll ~ 6pts

Dinner ~ 10pts
Prawn Laska ~ 8pts
White Wine x 2 ~ 2pts

Total points ~ 19pts

Water ~ 3 litres

Exercise ~ 1.5pts earned
Pedometer steps ~ 8403 = 1.5pts

Need to pull my finger out with my steps..... didn't move as much today (to be honest wasn't feeling the best).

44 Day Challenge - Day 6

2010-03-22T12:58:00.006+11:00

We had a great time last night and although I did drink a few glasses of wine I managed to stay away from the finger food (deep fried spring rolls, dimsims, etc) that were provided.

Day 6: Sunday

Breakfast ~ 0.5pts
Skim Milk 1/2 cup ~ 0.5pts
Coffee ~ 0pts

Lunch ~ 16 pts
Lunch at the Longbeach Hotel with family

Grilled Barramundi, Mashed Potatoes, Spinach and Hollandaise Sauce ~ pts value only an estimation. Did not eat all the potatoes.
White Wine x 4pts

Dinner ~ 8pts
Teriyaki and Chilli Pork Spare Ribs

Total points ~ 22.5 pts

Water ~ 1 litres

Exercise ~ 4.5pts earned
Pedometer steps ~ 14858 = 4.5pts

I really need to improve on my decision making and choices on the weekend - I cannot understand why I just throw caution the wind. This will be one of the areas that I need to focus on a during the week our world is so regimented.

44 Day Challenge ~ Day 5

2010-03-22T11:57:00.003+11:00

Okay so it's Saturday and I did have big plans until I slept in..... Now remember I said I was going to be honest? Well I am, I am not going to lie to me or you about what gets eaten and yes the decisions will always be mine.

Day 5: Saturday

Breakfast ~ 0.5pts
Skim Milk 1/2 cup ~ 0.5pts
Coffee ~ 0pts

Lunch ~ 15 pts
Hungry Jacks - Alfresco Whopper (which I might add was terrible and looked nothing like the poster!! ~ 15 pts OMG!!! What was I thinking?
Diet coke ~ 0pts as if that compensated...

Dinner ~ 8pts
Flounder ~ 6 pts
Lemon and Thyme Sauce 2pts
Steamed Vegetables 0pts

Then we went out for a 50th birthday party where I had several glasses of reisling over the course of the night (I did put ice cubes in them though)

Reisling x 6 ~ 6pts

Total points ~ 29.5 pts

Water ~ 2 litres

Exercise ~ 4.0pts earned
Pedometer steps ~ 14488 = 4pts

A massive day points wise but like I said this is all about being honest and living life not hiding in the closet. Can I get decision making lessons from anywhere????

44 Day Challenge ~ Day 4

2010-03-19T11:35:00.002+11:00

Still on track - well doing the best I can... the weekends are always my major challenge and normally my downfall....

Day 4: Friday

Breakfast ~ 4.5pts
Skim Milk 1/2 cup ~ 0.5pts
2 Finn Crisp Rounds ~ 1pts
30g low fat hommus ~ 1.5pts
Coffee ~ 0pts

Lunch ~ 5pts
Leftover Shepherd's Pie (small serve) 5pts

Dinner ~ 10pts
Home made fish and chips 8pts
Tartare Sauce ~ 2pts

Total points ~ 19.5 pts

Water ~ 2 litres

Exercise ~ 2.5pts earned
Pedometer steps ~ 10324 = 2.5pts

A little over again but nothing to beat myself up on.....

44 Day Challenge ~ Day 3

2010-03-19T11:27:00.003+11:00

It was Alex's birthday yesterday so we had the family over for dinner. I went a little over in my points but that is okay as I have been pretty good for a few days before! I didn't indulge in the cake but I did enjoy a few glasses of wine.

Day 3:

Breakfast ~ 4.5pts
Skim Milk 1/2 cup ~ 0.5pts
2 Finn Crisp Rounds ~ 1pts
30g low fat hommus ~ 1.5pts
Coffee ~ 0pts

Lunch ~ 4pts
Prawn Salad ~ 2pts
Seafood Cocktail dressing ~ 2pts

Dinner ~ 12pts
Shepherd's Pie ~ 8pts
White wine x 4 ~ 4pts

Total points ~ 20.5pts

Water ~ 2.0 litres

Exercise ~ pts earned 3.0
Pedometer steps ~ 12302 = 3pts

Now to prepare for surviving the weekend as it's Friday today!!!! GGGRRR weekends are my downfall....

44 Day Challenge ~ Day 2

2010-03-17T09:52:00.001+11:00

Day 2:

Breakfast ~ 4.5pts
Skim Milk 1/2 cup ~ 0.5pts
2 Finn Crisp Rounds ~ 1pts
30g low fat hommus ~ 1.5pts
400g watermelon ~ 1.5pts
Coffee ~ 0pts

Lunch ~ 6pts
Chicken and Salad Vietnamese Roll ~ 6pts

Dinner ~ 8pts
Chicken Taco Bake ~ 6pts
Bake Potato ~ 2pts
Steamed Vegetables ~ 0pts

Total points ~ 18.5pts

Water ~ 2.0 litres

Exercise ~ pts earned 4.0

Pedometer steps ~ 14518 = 4.0pts

Still on track..... go Jo, go Jo (LOL)

44 Day Challenge ~ Day 1

2010-03-16T11:31:00.005+11:00

Alright so if I am going to be totally 100% committed to my challenge I need to put everything (the good the bad and the ugly) out there!!

Day 1:

Breakfast ~ 2.5pts

Skim Milk 1/2 cup ~ 0.5pts
Porridge (instant oats) ~ 2pts
Coffee ~ 0pts

Snack ~ 2pts
2 x Finn Crisp Rounds ~ 1pt
20 grams Low Fat Hommus ~ 1pt

Lunch ~ 4.5pts
Chicken and Coriander Salad ~ 3.5pts
Forme Yoghurt ~ 1pt

Snack ~
didn't have an aftenoon snack - not hungry

Dinner ~ 9pts
Red Curry Beef and Vegetable Stirfry ~ 6.5pts
Steamed Rice ~ 2.5pts

Water ~ 2.5 litres

Exercise ~ pts earned 5.5

Pedometer steps ~ 17044 = 5.5pts

Feeling of satisfaction with today's efforts..... roll on tomorrow.

Who am I kidding....me?

2010-03-16T11:11:00.003+11:00

After an expected gain at last night's weigh-in something has to be done.

As you may have already read a fortnight of partaking in a food fest (or should I say eating with no care?) gave me a 1.5kg gain. Although it hurt I am okay with it but it has me thinking about my mindset...

Honestly how the hell do I expect to get great results and reach my set goals if I am not giving 100% to myself or this lifestyle plan???

Really who I am I kidding, right? It's not going to happen overnight, it's not going to happen through wishful thinking, it's not going to happen just because I want it too!

I have to make the effort - yep ME!!

Yes I have set goals, yes they are achievable and yes I have not managed to make any of them passed losing 5%. This is my 26th week on what is my last attempt to be happy with me and I have only managed to lose 4.9kgs. Why? Because of the bloody yo-yo pattern that I am in. I do really well for 1 week, have a great loss, the next week I relax a little too much and whammo it's back on (sound familiar anyone??)!!

Okay so today is a new day, a fresh start to a new week and I am bloody determined to make the most of it.

I have my cousins who I haven't seen for about 6 years coming from overseas to stay with me. The last time they were here I was embarrassed about the size of me especially in group family photo's which I know everyone back in Wales would have seen on their return. To be perfectly honest my size then and my size now haven't really changed - infact maybe increased some!

They are arriving at the end of April... 44 days away! I want to shift some more weight before then. I know it's not going to be a huge amount and I won't make it into the supermodel category in 44 days but even if it was 5kgs I will be happier within myself.

Needless to say I am setting myself a 44 day challenge. I will be tracking and exercising for the next 44 days HONESTLY and RELIGIOUSLY!! I will have challenges between now and then that's for sure including son's birthday, Easter, hubby's birthday, travel with work etc but I will NOT use these as excuses!

Confessions of a little piggy....

2010-03-16T09:23:00.004+11:00

Hi my name is Jo and I am a little piggy.... yep I really am and the scales proved that again at last night's weigh in!!

It's been two weeks since I weighed in. (Our meeting was closed last Monday due to Labour Day but we were away so I wouldn't have gone anyways!)

During that two weeks I went away with work staying and eating at hotels and concsiously didn't make wise choices! I also went away for the long weekend with my family where we ate out everynight and the food was soooo good! Then there was Alex's birthday party/sleepover on Saturday night to which I got my fix eating party pies with tomato sauce.

Forgive me as once again I have also indulged in way too much alcohol and even though I am mixing my wine with soda water I am still drinking more than I should but I am enjoying it!

After two weeks of being on a food fest, which I enjoyed without guilt, the scales told the ending of the story! A gain of 1.5kgs!! And this result was expected, in fact I had prepared myself for a higher number.

I know that I can rectify this situation and get back on track which is exactly what I have done as of this morning...... no further punishment is needed ~ the punishment was the display on the scales.

Today is a brand new day.....

I'm still here... just busy!!

2010-03-10T14:13:00.002+11:00

Unfortunately March and April are our busy months - who am I kidding? Every month is busy for us and with the change in my job role and it's required travel I have just become so much more frantic. On the verge of running around resembling a chook with it's head cut off!

Last week I travelled with work. Stayed away from home Tuesday through to Thursday so two nights in a hotel eating hotel food! I am not going to lie and say I made the best possible choices that I could have. I will be honest and say that I made choices based on what I wanted at the time but opted for the better option, if that makes sense?

On Tuesday evening I could have had the seafood platter (deep friend, crumbed and battered seafood served with chips) but I didn't. Instead I opted for a steak with seafood topping and a sauce. Like I said it wasn't the best choice but it was a better choice that what could have been a bad choice. Same with Wednesday evening I was eyeing off the pork belly, which as everyone knows cannot really be cooked 100% in a Weight Watcher friendly way but ended up with another steak and a different sauce served with vegetables.

Breakfasts was a harder decision especially as I am not a cereal lover to begin with. I did take the option of a full cooked breakfast but instead of piling my plate high I had Eggs Benedict (and enjoyed the sauce) where as I could have done a help myself to bacon, eggs, sausages, etc.

I kept moving a lot whilst away training with my pedometre showing good figures every day considerably over 10000 steps which pleased me. Where I could I took the consciencious decision to take the stairs especially Wednesday night when I stayed on the 3rd floor. On Wednesday evening I even had a sauna and a swim in the pool completing only a few laps but they were a few laps more than I would have done if I was just sitting in my room, right?

I returned Thursday evening exhausted from the travel, only to repack the suitcase on Friday evening for our family holiday in Halls Gap. We went away for the long weekend and returned yesterday, taking the extra day to soak up some more quality time together as a family.

We had a great time staying in a deluxe cabin with a spa ensuite and I was officially given a ban against cooking - no cooking duties for me except breakfasts which were easy. However this meant facing more "good" choices when reading menus for 3 nights.

I have to be honest here as well and say I just didn't think about it. I ordered what I wanted and know that once again I could have made better choices. BUT I enjoyed my meals especially Saturday night devouring Kangaroo Fillet with Caramelized Port, Cream and Seed Mustard Sauce....mmmmm. In fact I could have had this 3 nights in a row!!

We did do a lot of walking going up to look outs etc and the kids and I completed the 1.2 km return trip to view McKenzies Falls (steep uphill climb on steps!!) for which my legs are still feeling today.

With being away I haven't offically weighed this week but according to my scales I have only managed a 1kg gain so I am happy with that. I have pulled back the strings now and it's back on track and back to healthy eating. The holiday is over that's for sure!

Travelling with work...... a new challenge

2010-03-01T14:32:00.003+11:00

It has just dawned on me that I am facing a new challenge now with my new job role at work.

Travelling around Victoria and Tasmania I now face the challenge of eating away from home and not only a meal here or there but full day's worth of foods... breakfast, lunch and dinner! Starting tomorrow!!

I am going to Albury, Wangaratta and Tarrawingee for the next three days and the only meal I will eat at home is dinner on Thursday night. Leaving early in the morning so I have decided to prepare myself some breakfast, more than likely a sandwich I can eat in the car and have decided to stop for a coffee. I don't have a problem with lunch for tomorrow as I will prepare that too but I am facing hotel dinner tomorrow night. Then there is a full day Wednesday and most of Thursday.

I can get my head around breakfast that's not an issue and lunch shouldn't be either. There is always a local shop that I can get a salad roll, etc. It's not like I am going out into the desert!!

Thinking ahead, I have downloaded the restaurant menus for both the hotels I am staying at and I must say most are not Weight Watcher friendly meals and I am convincing myself that I will order one out of two meals I have chosen at each restaurant but make changes to it to make it better for me. Why am I convincing myself? Because other dishes sound absolutely brilliant and made my mouth water already, thats why!!

This is something I am going to have to get used to as it is my job now and there will be a lot of overnight travel involved. I am sure the novelty of hotel food will wear off and it won't be this hard forever.

While it will be strange and confronting for a while especially as I LOVE food, trying new meals BUT I do want to lose weight and not gain it!

Bottom line - the choices are mine!

Size doesn't really matter.....

2010-02-23T15:06:00.002+11:00

Funnily I went to Weight Watchers last night expecting a good result instead I hopped off the scales minus 400 grams. A little disappointed with it I guess but thankful it was a loss.

Thinking about it now I am pleased with it - a loss is a loss, right?

It's 400 grams I lost NOT gained.

My overall weight is going down NOT up!

So I have got rid of my negative thoughts about the quantity of weight loss. It feels so much better than a gain, I guess size doesn't really matter as long as it's going not coming.

Best of all my pants feel loose..... LMAO!!!!

It's weigh-in day today.....

2010-02-22T13:53:00.002+11:00

Well it's weigh in day and I think I should do okay.

My week has been good and although it could have been better I am happy with how I am feeling at the moment. A quick sneaky look at the scales this morning showed a loss but I am not holding tonight's outcome based on the figures "my friend" showed me, if you know what I mean?

I am sure that if I have another loss this week I will have continued motivation etc to get me successfully through another 7 days........

Success feels amazing but so motivating!

2010-02-16T08:48:00.005+11:00

To be honest I haven't stopped smiling from my weigh in last night. The scales were definitely my friends with a massive result of a 3.9kgs loss! Although that figure is worthy of a brag I have to remember that I did gain 4kgs over the last 4 weeks. So I am basically back to where I was a month ago but I am okay with that.

There could have been more progress but it's happened - I cannot change it so I will not carry the excess burden of guilt around with me.... MOVE ON I say!! Strange as it sounds I am learning not to beat myself up about weight fluctuation. Saying this I did draw a lot from an article discussing emotional baggage in this month's Weight Watchers magazine.

Discovering the right head space is the key. I am really comfortable with my weight loss journey this time around. I love the fact that my friend, Vera, is also doing Weight Watchers with me and that I have some extra accountability and someone else to confide in. Vera knows all about my emotional rollercoaster that my sister has put the family on which is a good thing as she understands what I have been going through more than most people do.

The other positive motivator on this journey is my lovely leader, Sam!! She is just a bundle of energy, positiveness and support from the minute you walk into the meeting room to the minute you leave but more importantly she is down to earth and very easy to talk to. I have been to and worked at many different Weight Watchers meetings but Sam is just amazing. This is not my first time of following Weight Watchers that I have joined Sam's meetings, only to fall off the wagon due to my own fault, and I have to say knowing that this would be the last time I was going to rejoin Weight Watchers I knew that I needed Sam as my leader!

The topic this week is TRACKING and it's importance!! Something I am great at Monday through Friday (work keeps me on track) but terrible at on the weekend. For some reason I never think of writing down what I eat/drink or even some weekends sticking to my menu planner is a huge task. This is something I really need to focus on and change. If I am going to do this I need to do it all the time not just when I think it's okay to.

Needless to say this week I am committed 200% to track, track, track!!

Are you carrying emotional baggage?

2010-02-12T14:39:00.003+11:00

Emotional baggage.... a very confronting topic indeed.

There is a great article in this months Weight Watchers magazine concerning emotional baggage and setting yourself free from carrying it! I must admit it triggered quite a bit inside even my head.

Here are parts of the article I found interesting. I am going to share them with you as they might ring some bells with you too....

"It's very common for us to hang on to an old set of beliefs or a bad habit with a certain situation or person. But holding on in this way keeps an element of our energy and focus - consciously or subconsciously - tied up in the past. This means that we don't have 100 per cent of our energy available to use in the present" according to life coach Andrew McCombe.

Trying to achieve weight loss or get healthy can be hard when you don't have all guns firing. You want to be in the moment, feeling like you can take on the world. So how do you did ditch stuff from your past - the stuff that's holding you back?

"The first step is to decide you WANT to make the change," explains McCombe. "Once you're committed, you need to identify what your baggage is." Ask yourself questions to get to the root of the issue such as why you are unhappy, how you got to this point or why you can't move past it. Most of the time, the reason for your current situation is a feeling or a thought - rather than a physical stumbling block - and these CAN BE CHANGED!!

"Your external world is a relflection of your internal world," adds McCombe. "Getting rid of those old feelings of guilt, fear or self-loathing will free you up to be the person that you have always wanted to be."

1. Ditching Body Hang Ups

Many woman have body issues hanging around from their youth. You may have been ashamed of your shape or size since high school (bell number one - I was and even now are ashamed of me).

"People of all shapes and sizes have low self-confidence," says life performance coach Bev Carter. "But, you can overcome it if you WORK at it." Carter suggests keeping a daily jornal so you can identify when you are being down on yourself and change your behaviour. Stop complaining about thinkgs you don't like and compliment yourself on your beautiful smile and eyes instead. "Wear what makes you feel good, not what you think happens to be 'in',' Carter says.

WAIT! Think before you ditch - Not all baggage is bad. It can be beneficial to hold onto...

Old Photos: They can be an instant and extremely powerful reminder of just how far you've come on your journey.
Lessons: When you lose the baggage, don't lose the lesson. There's always something to be gained from experience.
Your Diary: Even if it's filled with bad thoughts, it's a good motivator to not end up in that headspace again.
Postcode: You don't have to physically move house to make a new start. A familiar neighbourhood can actually help when you're making a significant life change.

2. Turning Down Negative Self-Talk

Everyone know's they're supposed to be psitive but for many people negative thoughts just happen!! (bell number two... hello Queen Negative typing away here!!)

"Thoughts just don't happen to you, YOU think them!" says sports psycholosgist Jeffrey Hodges.

"Part of the problem is that negative thinking and fear of failure have become habits for individuals and society in general. Write down all the good thoughts you have in a day. If you don't list more than 10, make a conscious effort the next day to fill the page. Post positive affirmations around your house. Ban words and phrases such as can't, won't and have to; replace them with can, want to and love to. Picture your goal as a mountain," says Carter. "It appears huge until you break it down into small steps. Before too long you see how far you've actually travelled and this brings energy and a sense of personal achievement."

It's true that the only way you can fail is by not trying at all.

3. Dealing with health changes.

An illness is not always baggage you can just ditch. (Pick me I have two - high blood pressure and diabetes II).

However, you can ditch the negative feelings about it. There will always be obstables in life, but it's how you overcome them that makes you who you are. As Lance Armstrong once said, "Pain is temporary, quitting lasts forever!"

Injuries and illness can be frustrating. If you fall out of a routine, get back into as soon as you can. The longer you leave it, the harder it is to start again.

4. Letting go of guilt and regret

We often carry baggage because we are hiding from an issue that has caused us great pain in the past. (Bingo - I have a little bit of guilt floating around my grey matter!)

"Sometimes things happen in life that we wish we could change, but nothing is more soul destroying than harbouring guilt or shame. The best way you can deal with these feelings is to acknowledge them, make amends and MOVE ON," says McCombe. "Learn to live in the present," he advises. "We spend so much of our lives reliving the past, planning for the future and operating on auto-pilot that being in the present is not something many people know how to do."

Take time our every day to be PRESENT. Meditate, lay silently in the bath for 10 minutes, go for a walk on your own, or focus on your husband, kids or a friend so you REALLY SEE THEM. All of these things will help you leave the past behind, move foreard and live peacefully and happily in the NOW.

5. Facing up to you nemesis:

Who is the red devil in your ear? You know, that jealous friend, interfering mother-in-law or nasty boss who tells you you're not good enough. (Hello why I think that would be ME!!)

Having a supportive environment is vital to achieving your goals. There will be people who want to bring you down, but the trick is to drown them out by surrounding yourself with as many positive people as you can.

"I've found that an individual's health is usually in line with the average nutrition and exercise habits of the five people with whom they spend most of their time," says Hodges. "So if your friends have health and fitness habits that are not at least at your own level, you should occasionally aim to swim in different circles."

Pick a new sport, activity or hobby BUT whatever you do, push yourself out of your comfort zone and remember the only person you really need to impress is yourself.

6. Throwing excuses overboard:

Whatever your excuse is, it's time to let it go! (hhhhmmm let me think, I have MANY to chose from!!)

"Being busy and tired are not good enough reasons NOT to accomplish your goals," says Carter. "Instead of wriggling out of things all the time, say you are going to do something and honour your word. Show your children the importance of being proactive and achieving your goals."

ARE YOU SABOTAGING YOURSELF?

Life coach Bev Carter explains why many people hold on to baggage - and how you can begin to let go.

They DON'T BELIEVE it's possible to change and use excuses rather than reason.
They DON'T VALUE their health and body until a vital issue crops up.
They feel OVERWHELMED by the challenge.
They think they DON"T HAVE ENOUGH TIME to make themselves a priority.

THE #1 WAY TO MOVE FORWARD:

"The only way to get any results is to take action," says Carter. "Start mall and do SOMETHING. Anything is better than nothing. Have a vision and a goal to work towards. Seek professional advice is your need to and create a support team around you."

So there you have it. I hope you find this as confronting and as motivating as I did. Many thanks to Weight Watchers Australia for offering this article and the advice to it's readers this month.

As you can see from my little comments I am carrying quite a bit of emotional baggage with me and this is something that I need to work on and work on it starting from now.

What about you? Are you carrying emotional baggage as well?

A MASSIVE gain - but I needed it!!

2010-02-09T12:09:00.003+11:00

Yesterday I really didn't want to go to my weigh in. But I did go. I knew I had to! I was expecting a gain and that's what I got.

I laughed out loud when the weigher said "OMG what did you do this week??"

A whopping GAIN of 2.4kgs was the result!!

Although shocked I have to say it was the kick in the bum that I needed.How did this happen? Easily!! I stopped tracking, relaxed on my portion sizes, out for dinners and lunches over the last 2 weeks, drowning my emotional issues in alcohol (trust me a lot of issues meant a lot of drinks) and of course, no exercise.

Needless to say I am back on track today, tracking everything that I have eaten, there will be no "little" extras and the treadmill will get dusted off and used!

I know I need to continue, I need to lose weight not just for me but for my family's sake. I need to get healthy so I am not going to give up!!

A promising phonecall....

2010-01-27T12:20:00.005+11:00

I have just got off the telphone with Chubby Hubby and I just had to share what could be the "beginning" of a good thing...

To put you in the picture of a few things that happened over our weekend. On Saturday night, we took the kids to Luna Park to have a fun family night... all was going well and yes we were all having lots of fun having gone on the Ghost Train, through the Circus of Screams when the kids decided one wanted to go on G Force and the other on a different ride. Chubby Hubby decided he would go on G Force with Oliver only to find that he could not due to his size and weight. The look of embarrassment on his face said it all but the look on our son's face said more.

After Oliver went on his ride, he decided he wanted to try the ride his sister had just been on and wanted to do again. Once again Chubby Hubby sat on the ride only for the same thing to happen. Both kids sat there with the saddest look on their faces and it was heartbreaking for me to watch but more so for how I can only imagine Chubby Hubby felt. He didn't say anything but I know it would have upset him especially as he is a big kid at heart himself.

Next was the dodgems cars, which we thought there would be no issue but he couldn't get the seat belt around him so they gave him a seatbelt extension. Although he joked about it I knew he was embarrassed and I would even have to say a little ashamed.

During the course of the evening, we were discussing things and the series of events was mentioned. I said "well maybe this could be the turning point for us both and we should use this as incentive to ensure next time we come this doesn't happen again." Chubby hubby replied "yes, I know that I have to do something".

Nothing more has been said since Saturday night except for me last night saying that I have to get back on track as of this morning, start tracking, start sticking to my points as I HAVE to lose weight and WANT to lose weight. I said it wouldn't hurt all of us to live the healthy life for awhile - he said he understood where I was going but that was it.

But you could have blown me away with a feather when he just rang me at lunchtime.

"Guess what I am having for lunch?" he asked.

I replied "I have no idea." "What?" I asked knowing that he was buying his lunch whilst I made myself a salad this morning.

"A chicken and lettuce sandwich on whole grain bread." I could tell he was proud of his choice by his voice and I was really proud for him.

We then went on to discuss dinner and when I told him that I had thought we could try a new WW recipe he was all for it saying that would be a nice change. It was settled. Tonight we are having Prawn Laksa Stirfry as it's only the two of us at home tonight for dinner.

Having just got off the phone I feel that he may have just turned that page and may actually start taking an interest in his weight and the journey he needs to undertake. I am excited, if this is what has happened, not only for him but for me too. Having extra support from him especially if he is focussed will help me also...

This could be the turning point that we (the Murray family) all need.....

I may as well have worn a tent!!

2010-01-27T07:52:00.004+11:00

Firstly let me tell you that yesterday I wore something that I wouldn't normally wear in public. I am normally so worried about how "big" I look that it's like a full scale operation trying to find something to wear before we go out only to end up wearing the same thing everytime.

I vowed that going to the Picnic Races yesterday would be different and with the kids and Noel all dressed up in "aussie" outfits I had to find something that suited. The only thing I could find was a FLAG!

Yep you are reading correctly - an Australian Flag became my top! I had a singlet top on underneath but folded in half and tied around me was this massive flag... not one of the smaller ones a BIG one. Honestly I may as well worn a tent!

BUT I did it - I left the house without a care for how big my belly looked I was in the spirit of the day and that's all that mattered. A few times throughout the day I did doubt my image especially seeing all the "poshies" in their outfits but they were only fleeting thoughts.

Secondly this will be the last Australia Day that I struggle to find something nice to wear... next year I will be wearing something more fashionable that's a promise!!

PS I forgot to mention that I had a HUGE gain last week with my scales face - off. Infact I gained 1.4kgs which was disappointing but the reality was that I DID deserve such a result.... as of today I am back on track and determined that I CAN DO THIS!!

The dreaded scale face off....(before)

2010-01-25T13:31:00.002+11:00

By the title of this post you can probably guess that I am not looking forward to facing the scales tonight at my weigh-in nor am I expecting a miracle result.

In fact I will be mildly surprised if I haven't put on weight again due to the huge weekend we have just had.....

Oh well all will be revealed at 5pm tonight.....stay tuned!

A Frog Story.... a lesson to be learnt!

2010-01-22T06:48:00.001+11:00

Just thought I would share this - it was sent to me by a friend via email... the words rang so true all I have to do is follow the lesson!

Once upon a time there was a bunch of tiny frogs.... who arranged a competition. The goal was to reach the top of a very high tower.

A big crowd had gathered around the tower to see the race and cheer on the contestants.... The race began.... honestly ~ no one in the crowd really believed that the tiny frogs would reach the top of the tower.

You heard statements such as: "Oh, WAY too difficult!!" "They will NEVER make it to the top." or "Not a chance that they will succeed. The tower is too high!"

The tiny frogs began collapsing. One by one.... Except for those, who in a fresh tempo, were climbing higher and higher....

The crowd continued to yell, "It is too difficult!!! No one will make it!"

More tiny frogs got tired and gave up.... But ONE continued higher and higher and higher.... This one wouldn't give up! At the end everyone else had given up climbing the tower.

Except for the one tiny frog who, after a big effort, was the only one who reached the top!

THEN all of the other tiny frogs naturally wanted to know how this one frog managed to do it? A contestant asked the tiny frog how he had found the strength to succeed and reach the goal?

It turned out.... That the winner was DEAF!!!!

The wisdom of this story is: NEVER listen to other people's tendencies to be negative or pessimistic.... because they take your most wonderful dreams and wishes away from you - the ones you have in your heart! Always think of the power words have. Because everything you hear and read will affect your actions!

Therefore: ALWAYS be....POSITIVE!

And above all: Be DEAF when people tell YOU that you cannot fulfill your dreams!

Always think: I CAN do this!!!

I'm getting there and I'm focussed

2010-01-21T15:37:00.005+11:00

Well so far I have survived the first two days and I am well into my 3rd. I am feeling really good this week and have some things that I am not only looking forward to coming up but I am using as motivational tools.

Firstly we have booked a weekend away the first weekend in March. It's Labour Day Weekend here so it's a long weekend and we are as a family going to Halls Gap. Although not that far away I am keen to shed a few kilos. I know I will enjoy myself better if I was a little lighter and definately a little healthier as I will be happier also.

Then my cousin is coming from Wales in 3 months to visit. We haven't seen each other for 6 or 7 years now so it would be great to have lost a bit of weight before she arrives. So the photo's she takes home with her aren't AWFUL of the fat girl who lives in Australia!!

So with this is mind I am really watching what's going in my mouth and with the sneak peak on the scales this morning (showing a loss) it's paying off!!

I don't need EXCUSES any more!

2010-01-19T11:09:00.002+11:00

Okay as you know I had weigh in last night and a gain of 200g, therefore today is a brand new day and the start of a brand new week. So, as usual, I have once again wiped my slate clean of all excuses!!

BUT as of right now I am BANNED from using excuses!!

No longer will I use an excuse as the reason for my decisions or actions, for the reason I choose to eat something or for the reason I binge drank, etc.....I have used to many excuses in the past including this last week blaming things on emotions, family, work, etc but if I am to succeed I MUST STOP blaming other things for what I CHOOSE TO DO!!

There is no-one to or nothing else to blame except for me - so I DON'T NEED EXCUSES ANYMORE, right?

Onwards from this moment,