My Top Ten Reasons I Work Out....

I have not written in quite a while...I am sure you have missed me, but I feel motivated to write today so I want to share my top ten reasons I work out. And of course, we all work out to feel healthy, lose weight, blah, blah, blah. I want to share the reasons that obviously relate to being healthy but are a little more colorful.

1. Vanity is a fabulous motivator...and I am not ashamed to say I enjoy looking at myself now rather than myself 24 pounds ago. And for those that care, I mean my clothed self, not my naked self. Still having a hard time with naked...
2. Two of my best friends, Ben and Jerry, can visit more often when I work out regularly....and their Danish cousin Haagen Daaz tags along occasionally.
3.We live in a society that can deliver pizza within 10 minutes, but we don't have time to exercise? Seriously??
4. My husband FINALLY got a DVR for our TV so my excuse of "but I will miss my T.V. show" no longer works.
5.Liposuction is much more attractive when there is only 10 pounds to suck versus 50 and seriously, who doesn't want their monies worth?
6. I now know lots of new terms like plank, burpee, and side lunge....and I can actually perform the moves multiple times without passing out!
7. Some parts of me weren't meant to jiggle...I am not Bill Cosby so I wish to lose the Jell-O on my thighs.
8. Who DOESN'T want to live till 100! I have got places to see and people to influence! Not to mention, when I am 100 I plan on being cantankerous and say EVERYTHING I think....and I mean EVERYTHING...because who cares? I am 100.
9. Exercise is an excellent conversation topic and one that is accepted and safe in many different situations. Meeting someone new? Exercise. Girls night out? Exercise. Business meeting? Exercise and you should probably talk about your business, too.....but you get the picture, right? Universal topic and way better than the weather!
10. I love how I feel and I am beginning to appreciate how I look....and that is priceless!

The "C" Word....

The word that strikes fear into every dieter's heart...how many CALORIES??

Calories are a mess to explain- I can hardly understand the science behind assigning a number to certain foods. The calories we know and hate are a measurement of energy, yet in science they can also carry a meaning 1,000 times greater than we use. The energy in food in actually measured in kilocalories...confusing right? Well, for our general use, let's talk the talk and walk the walk. A calorie is a measure of the energy content of food. One calories- the kind we see on food labels- is the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of a liter of water by one degree Centigrade...I took this definition from Marion Nestle. Sounds complicated, right? Ultimately, what we need to know is this:

Diets are about calories. Eat too many, your weight will go up. To lose weight, you can do one of the two: eat fewer calories than your body needs each day or use up your excess calories by increased physical activity. Or try both for a double whammy! Either way, if you are on a diet, the only kind that REALLY work are those that incorporate fewer calories.

Now I am sure you are DYING to know how I claim that high profile "low carb" diets do NOT work. For my knowledge (which is immensely vast), I turn to an explanation of Marion Nestle, amazing all-knowing nutrition champ. If youi know how calories work, you know to base your diet around two numbers:
1) 2,000 to 3,000 calories a day are the range of calories that maintain body weight in most people.
2) 3,500 calories per pound equals the number of calories in one pound of body fat.

Now, knowing what we know, in order to LOSE 1 pound, you would have to eat 3,500 calories fewer than what you need to maintain your body weight. So if you are focused on a diet that involves high fat intake, you are bound to get discouraged because you are not really adjusting your calories intake. We should pay attention to fat, sugar and carb intake, but overall, be careful that you are not falsely losing water weight...it has a way of coming back!! To lose one pound of body fat a week, you have to take in 500 fewer calories per day or increase your activity to burn 500 calories per day...I choose to do both. And when you think about it, that candy bar you need after lunch...500 calories right there!! Or give up the tater tots from the lunchroom...yes, I know how GOOD they are, but when your jeans fall off, that feeling beats the taste of tots hands down!

Overall, understanding calories is tough, but weight loss doesn't have to be- burn more than you take in each day. I can promise you if I can do it, anyone can. I recently ran for 8 minutes straight at the gym and yesterday I ran a mile around my neighborhood and I ran .5 without stopping! That is BIG for me- so if I can do it, you can too!! Start logging those calories and keep them down...eat some veggies and fruit, give up the Big Macs and chips and soda.

And if you need to vent about why losing weight has to be so hard, remember that your health and fitness are worth a little sacrifice....and you can complain to me!! I will totally agree with you- then we can share a smoothie....all natural, of course!

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Vegtables Give me Gas...

Yes, it is true....broccoli and cauliflower give me horrible painful gas and raw veggies can give me stomach cramps, but I love to eat them! Lots of fruit makes me poop like a blue goose, but I still suck down my smoothie every day! And when I eat egg whites, especially boiled egg whites, my toots smell like last year's garbage shot through a stink machine.

Yet I keep eating these things, because I know they are healthy for me- why? Dairy Queen is true to the slogan- it treats me right! Cheeto-Puffs? Bring it! I could pound down a whole bag and then be ready for some Papa John's Pizza with a side of Varsity. I sometimes dream about Entenmann's cinnamon rolls wrapped in bacon.....

Then add in a healthy dose of sweating it out...and I mean sweating like a ho in church. Did you know that briskly walking 1 mile burns about 100 calories?? That's it!? I go to the gym and when I run on the treadmill, I notice the my boobs feel like they are about to bounce slap off my chest and I am pretty sure the gym staff refer to me as hobo lady....I obviously DO NOT care what I look like when I choose to sweat off my poundage....

So for the past four months, I have stopped eating junk food....started exercising...5 days a week....and I feel great. Changing my diet is the best thing I could have done for myself. Exercising has improved not only my attitude, but my energy level! And the absolute....best part?? My clothes fit and my husband says I can buy more! WINNING!

SO even though I hate that I don't really eat junk food and I hate sweating it out at the gym around all the blond ones....it is worth it. My health is worth it. I have lost 22 pounds and gained quite a bit of muscle. I am so proud of myself and I am beginning to like what I see in the mirror more and more (when I make myself look). And yes... I still have a hard time looking at myself naked!!

And while I am here, I confess I ate three small pieces of chocolate today and a divine cupcake made by the fabulous baker Pam Sherrer! And five boiled eggs (no yolk)....and a wedge of laughing cow cheese with about 20 wheat thins...and a BIG glass of wine. Which I earned, yes I did!!

BUT- I am keeping those calories under 1600 per day....and I am so proud of myself! What are you proud of this week??

Signing off,
Miss Mad

What's in Your Wallet?

Okay...so...over the past few weeks, I have really tried to increase my cardio and strength training. It is great one day and a great big piece of hell the next day. Needless to say, while I have been busy the past few weeks, my dieting and exercise have remained and I am 21 pounds down! Also, I really notice my clothes fitting much better and I have more energy...I just FEEL better and that feeling is priceless.

So speaking of price...instead of asking "what's in your wallet", I began to think in terms of "what's in your fridge". Ever notice how you almost have a predictable route through your house that almost always includes opening your fridge? I never really thought about the power of the fridge until I began to notice everything in my fridge. What options do I have for snacking? Ever notice that most unhealthy snacks are easy access? Ice cream is wrapped, pudding cups, frozen food (just open and heat)..need I go on? So I wondered what food is in my fridge that at a glance is easy access.....AND I (I mean my husband) could create a healthy meal with minimal effort? Here my easy access list:
1. Chobani Greek yogurt- I LOVE the fruit you stir- it is also 3 times the protein and fat free!
2. Low fat Skim milk string cheese- it takes...what...3 seconds to open? Great snack to keep on hand for the kiddos...if I had any...
3. Laughing cow cheese- I love the Garlic and Herb- 35 calories per slice!!
4. Cottage cheese- I like the kind in 90 calorie cups
5. Hershey's chocolate syrup....Don't judge me...I never said "the perfect fridge"
5. Pickles- Did you know that each mini-dill has, like, 5 calories?! You could eat the whole jar! Just watch the sodium...
6. Apples- easy snack- just eat it!
7. Better n' Peanut Butter- this is peanut butter, but with fewer calories and sodium...I freakin LOVE it!
8. Marinated Mushrooms- Yummy.....

Hmmmmm....what else is in our fridge that maybe is used as an ingredient? The above items are present right now in my fridge and foods I like to snack on- they are SUPER easy to prepare and not too expensive...so now the staples in our fridge right now:

1. Cabbage- It is just good. You can make cole slaw, steam it...so good!
2. Potatoes and Onions- I don't eat too many potatoes, but once a day is good....
3. Carrots- Steamed or added with a meat, they work well with salads too...
4. Spinach- A little olive oil and garlic on medium heat- it cooks down and tastes great- we use in salads also...
5.Minced Garlic- We keep this in the fridge at all times...
6.Grilled Chicken- We buy a family pack of chicken each week (or freeze it and use as needed) and Scott grills it on Sunday. Then we have grilled chicken through the week...so this is in my fridge right now....
7. Leftovers- yeah...this isn't an ingredient, but if you cook, why not go ahead and cook extra to feast on later? Then you are saving time and maybe money if you eat leftovers for lunch the next day.

So there's a little example of what's in my fridge...keep it healthy and you will be surprised to see that your trips to the fridge get fewer and fewer. Happy snacking!

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Battle of the Bulge

My battle wages on....

The past few weeks have been busy and while I am still maintaining my now 21 pound weight loss, I find that what I am now experiencing is the AFTER diet. Trying to decide what to eat and how much, then fighting the guilty feeling of eating. Now don't get me wrong, I am one girl no one EVER has to worry about developing an eating disorder- I think my idea of nirvana involves my floating on a giant chocolate eclair in a sea of coca-cola icee while Tiramisu rains down from the sky.....I only wish that food was calorie free! It is definitely hard to manage trying to eat healthy with such a love of food. I am beginning to learn that dieting is the easy part- maintenance is the hard part!

In addition to the food side of town, I am crossing the proverbial tracks to experience more of the country called Jillian Michaels...it is a tough land to navigate and I am slowly learning the language. Spider planks, Burpees, and Mountain Climbers...so basically at any given point in the week, something on my body is sore. And the more I do, the more I am enjoying myself. So maybe exercise is a form of Masochism? Oohhh....I like it!

So as I continue my journey, I reflect on the battle we wage each day and wonder what choices I will make tomorrow? Hopefully good ones. I recently read of a weight loss author who said each week she eats 20% unhealthy and 80% healthy, incorporating exercise at least three times per week. I cannot recall her name, but she wrote a book called "300 under 300"....meaning 300 meal options under 300 calories! If I can locate a copy, I will share. Rather than looking for diet information online, I have become interested in looking at different options to fulfill my picture of good health for Amanda.

What's your picture look like? Mine is looking better all the time! But I still feel guilty for eating a lot, even though it never has nor will it ever prevent my from unhinging my jaw....

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Why Does Food Equal Guilt?

I feel incredibly guilty when I eat unhealthy food OR I eat a lot of food, whether that food is healthy or not. Let me clarify what I mean by guilt....I have spent the past three months exercising at least three times each week, eating only 1500 calories per day, little to no alcohol, no bread, no pasta, no refined carbs, no refined sugars....so when I drank a can of coke yesterday, I felt HORRIBLY guilty to the point that I was obsessively counting up my calories.Today I ate McDonald's for lunch and I found myself counting each fry I ate as 10 calories, 20, 30.  Beyond that, before my healthy lifestyle change, I would spend entire blocks of time sitting on my floor in front of my closet CRYING and worrying about my food intake and weight problems.

Now, it is NOT easy to write and admit that I am so concerned about my weight...even loud girls like me get shamed sometimes. But...I am trying to dig deeply into the psychology of weight loss so that I can hopefully keep off the weight I lose. Obviously I have some psycho issues when it comes to food, and if I do not address them, then it is foolish to expect better results if I don't fix the formula.

First of all: Guilt over what we eat is nothing new. Usually, we look at food in terms of "good" food and "bad" food; chomp on carrot sticks and you're a "saint," devour Death by Chocolate for dessert and you're a "sinner." Putting all this pressure on ourselves to eat perfectly starves the eating process of any pleasure. Gone is the ecstasy of relishing the tastes, the textures, the salty, the sweet. Whether it's a well-seasoned steak, a lobster dipped in butter, or a freshly cracked creme brulee, the appreciation of food is its own little heaven. The more judgmental we are about every bite, the less delicious it all tastes. And let's face it: Over thinking every single thing we put in our mouths can make us obsessive, leading to cravings and bingeing—the farthest thing from the "good" we set out for in the first place!

Many psychologists throw out reasons of guilt, low self-esteem, motivation, filling a void......gosh, I must be pretty messed up!! But I think the answer is a little more simple....we are conditioned to believe that food is more than fuel; it's a holiday, celebrate with food, it is a birthday, celebrate with food, special occasion- food....food has become part of the family, a best friend, something to lean on. Food never fails. And until I learn to put food back where it belongs, I will have many more episodes of crying in front of my closet.

So I am resolved to enjoy my food, but keep some guidelines. For starters, I am going to continue to avoid refined carbohydrates and refined sugars and get lots of veggies, fruits and water every day. Where I will keep things a little different this time around: I will stop beating myself up for eating "cheat" foods once in a while. And when Wal-mart starts selling a lipo suction machine for home, then I will start eating McDonald's every day....well...maybe not....

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Running Makes you High...

Usually, I want to die when I run....my chest hurts, my head feels like it will explode, and I cannot breathe. However, today I ran/walked 2 miles...and....miraculously....I did not die and felt pretty good! Also, I have begun to notice the fabulous influx of endorphins when I work out, which, let's face it, feel heavenly when you have a big dose! So while I am NOT in love with running, like turnips, I find i can tolerate it much more now that I have tried it out. PLUS....I am carrying 19 pounds LESS than 3 months ago, which means I am hauling less butt!

So all my dwelling on running and good feelings made me think: what exactly about working out feels so good? Well, it has to do with endorphins, which are chemicals that are able to cross through the gaps between neurons in order to pass along a message from one to the next. There are many different kinds, and much remains to be learned about their different purposes and functions. The thing for you to know about endorphins: their ability to make you feel oh-so-good. When your body is subjected to certain stimuli like sex, food, or pain, your hypothalamus (part of your brain) calls for endorphins, and the cells throughout your body that contain them heed the call. When endorphins lock into special receptor cells (called opioid receptors, because opiates also fit them), they block the transmission of pain signals and also produce a euphoric feeling. So they are kinda like crack without the crack....and we ain't talking butt crack!

But here's the heartbreaking part: researchers have found that light-to-moderate weight training or cardiovascular exercise doesn't produce endorphins, only heavy weights or training that incorporates sprinting or other anaerobic exertion. When your body crosses over from an aerobic state to an anaerobic state, it's suddenly operating without enough oxygen to satisfy the muscles and cells screaming out for it. This is when the "runner's high" occurs. I have experienced this a few times now, but I felt GREAT afterwards, rather than like I would die.

So...now that I have discovered I won't die, maybe someone wants to join me on the track??

Soon to be changed into NOT Miss Mad?

Clothes Don't Lie...

If you are like me, you examine all clothing from every possible angle to test whether that clothing is flattering to you; I wear nothing that I feel even slightly shows my fat rolls. Seriously, my mama raised me right. Recently, however, I have been watching a lot of "What Not to Wear" which upholds the virtues of wearing clothing that fits. Well, no offense Stacey London and Clinton Kelly, but clothing that shows the rolls is OUT like white pants after labor day (yes, I still follow that rule). I have sworn for weeks now that I am going to get myself some Spanx- according to several fashion authorities, these are a must have. I came across several tips on dressing to look thinner, which is a major part of my getting dressed routine. I thought I would share my favs with you:

1. Do NOT wear a skinny belt, unless, well....you ARE skinny. Go with a wide (at least 3-4 inches) belt. It will give you a smoothing effect.
2. Empire waist and A-line dresses are flattering- they graze the waist and give you an hour glass appearance. For some of us (ME) I don't jut get an hour glass...I get a 24 hour glass....so I prefer darker colors to give a slimming effect.
3. I NEVER wear tank tops- I HATE the flab under my arms...I think most women hate this. So I usually invest in a cute bolero jacket to wear over my shoulders or a light, 3/4 sleeved cardigan. You can also go with a sheer top over a tank to hide that skin somewhat.
4. Let clothes fit your waist. Most women have a natural dip inwards on the waist, so if you fit clothing there, you will have a very feminine shape to work with.
5. More skin does NOT mean more sexy...check out People of Wal-mart.com and you will see why. I shudder when I think about it...
6. If you have big boobs, like me (I should say saggy boobs like me), don't wear spaghetti straps or tiny bras. You will look ridiculous and large. And come one, like that is comfortable!?
7. Clothing that is OVERLY baggy looks like an additional five pounds, so watch out! Big t-shirts are only good for sleeping. I try to balance a large shirt with skinny jeans, wide leg jeans with a more fitted shirt. And I like Loft's modern skinny jean which is not too tight...we aren't trying to make sausage here!

So those are my dress for looking thinner tips. I really must admit that even though I am overly conscious of how my clothing looks, I am really trying to keep up the exercise- because that makes me feel like I look great! And...I am down 17 pounds. I have to say that that is one of the best looks I have had in quite some time!!

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Survey of weight loss....

Over the weekend, I watched several shows about (morbidly) obese people who are trying to loose weight. Friday night I watched Heavy, which chronicles the weight loss journeys of people over a six month period. They are provided all the right tools, and it is amazing how much weight they loose and keep off. It truly is inspiring. Yet another show I watched, while at the gym, is Too Fat for Fifteen. This is a show about teens who are extremely overweight and attend a special school that helps them not only loose weight but learn how to live a healthy lifestyle. Again, truly inspiring....And my final show of the weekend is Ruby, a show about a woman in Savannah who weighted around 700 pounds and got all the way down to 300! Again, inspiring...

So here is my issue- all of these shows picture a percentage of the population...the morbidly obese. I am many things, not always positive things, but morbidly obese...or obese...is not one of them. After watching that show, I felt BETTER about eating....not inspired to work harder and eat healthier. I didn't feel MORE motivated to work out...I felt empathy for those on the show and impressed with their bravery. Overall....it made me question the psychological side to weight loss and how EACH and EVERY person has their own triggers and issues. That weight gain is MORE connected to our emotions than our stomachs.

So while I will continue to watch my shows (I DO love them!) I want to be more aware that I cannot relate my journey to theirs and need to concentrate on finding my own path, with all the bumps in the road belonging to ME! That's the only way to fix the psychological in my mind...

And speaking of my journey, I am holding strong at 17 pounds. I feel like I have definitely hit a plateau...so I am trying to crank up the cardio this week and keep the calorie intake down. I actually made it 50 minutes on the elliptical without passing out. And of course, blondie two rows over looks perfect and is barely sweating with her machine set to the highest resistance....I looked like a HOBO!

Why can't people who have NEVER been overweight have their OWN section of the gym?? Or at least periodically spray people with water so we all look alike! Seriously??

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Zip Up your Abs!

Boredom occurs easily with cardio. I don't always enjoy running or walking, the treadmill and various machines get old (even though my gym's machines have TVs on them). So what I do to beat the boredom is mix it up with a variety of videos. Right now, I own about 6 different videos of length between 12 minutes to 60 minutes of work out. Today I experienced Denise Austin's Daily Dozen...she has seven different workouts, each being 12 minutes and targeting either upper or lower body, abs, and cardio. I tried the cardio blast and lower body workout...and I SUCKED WIND! And frankly, I do not understand how Denise can go through the whole video and hardly look sweaty or winded....why can't I look not sweaty and winded when I work out? I always feel I look like a hobo when I finish working out!

So I am sure you are wondering what other videos might be exciting for you....here's a run down of my favs:
1. Denise Austin's Daily Dozen: A dozen different exercises in 12 minutes. The idea behind this fabulousness is you go through each day of the week working on a different set of exercises.
2. Jillian Michaels: I use two different videos. One is a fat blaster that will WEAR YOU OUT....the other is a daily 20 minutes workout that progresses as you get stronger. The fat Blaster is set up as a 45 minute workout...you can use any of the levels and customize your workout...always a good option when you are already carrying 30 extra pounds- who needs weights?
3. The Biggest Loser collections: these hit all levels- upper and lower body, cardio, weights, you name it. Great workout and you can customize your time.
4. Giam Pilates- I seriously cannot breathe without my abs hurting after these workouts...great for working out your core muscles.
5. Walk Away the Pounds: This collection simulates walking from 1-5 miles and range from jogging to cross training and is easy and fun. I promise you will get your heart rate up.

The best part about most of these workouts is that they all mix weight training with cardio, which is essential for optimal weight loss. Of course, coming home to try and work out is not only tough, sometimes it feels downright impossible. However....with some of these videos being only 12 minutes, it is easier to feel a little motivated. I leave my workout DVD for the week in my player and all I need to do is press play and go.

So....all these choices make a nice selection to fight the boredom!

Signing off,
Miss Mad

So I have been on a quest to find tasty food low on calories. And while yes, lean protein and leafy greens are high on my "to eat" list during the week, I am trying to not only improve my healthy eating habits, but understand the psychology that makes me over eat and crave junk food. I must admit that after a few days off of the sugar and refined carbs, I find myself not as hungry and feeling full after eating less. So that is definitely one giant check mark under my Kick A** checklist. But...the point of this is to not just loose weight but change my eating habits.

First of all, before I continue, let me tell you the past week I have jumped back on the healthy train and lost the four pounds I gained through my weekend away and then my dad's birthday party. I have been counting my calories and putting in some exercise time. So I feel back on track!

But I am trying to examine this week some good food tips, especially for going out...here's what I discovered...

Fast food can make you fat, so dinner at a sit-down chain must be better, right? A menu analysis from Yahoo of 24 national chains revealed that the average entree at a sit-down restaurant contains 867 calories, compared with 522 calories in the average fast-food entree. And that's before appetizers, sides, or desserts—after all that, you better be pushing your car home!

That “medium” soda may actually be a large. Most people subconsciously pick the middle option without considering the actual amount, says study author Richard Staelin, Ph.D. Remember, 8 ounces is one serving. That means a “small” Coke at McDonald’s is already 2 servings of carbonated sugar—and a large is 4! Hope you rode your bike to McDonald's!

DRINK WATER BEFORE YOU EAT...Now German researchers have found another reason: Water fuels your body’s fat burners and the increase is partially attributed to the energy your body generates to warm the water during digestion.

Food isn't always a bargain, no matter the "value size". Here’s exactly how expensive it really is when you go for the “bargain”:
•    7-Eleven. Gulp to Double Gulp Coca-Cola Classic: 37 cents extra buys 450 more calories
•    Cinnabon. Minibon to Classic Cinnabon: 48 more cents buys 370 more calories
•    Movie theater. Small to medium unbuttered popcorn: 71 additional cents buys you 500 more calories
•    Convenience store. Regular to “The Big One” Snickers: 33 more cents packs on 230 more calories
•    McDonald’s. Quarter Pounder with Cheese to Medium Quarter Pounder with Cheese Extra Value Meal: An additional $1.41 gets you 660 more calories
•    Subway. The 6- to 12-inch Tuna Sub: $1.53 more buys 420 more calories
•    Wendy’s. Classic Double with Cheese to Classic Double with Cheese Old Fashioned Combo Meal: $1.57 extra buys you 600 more calories
•    Baskin Robbins. Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, Kids’ Scoop, to Double Scoop: For another $1.62, you’ve added 390 calories

The bottom line: For 8 bucks, you’ve bought yourself 3,620 calories.  After all, you’d also save 188,240 calories a year, or 54 pounds of belly fat! DUDE...that is a small child....so start your weight loss small and go for the smaller size...then move towards the bigger staircase of stopping with not only fast food, but junk food in general....

Signing off,
Miss Mad

It's a cruel, cruel world....

Why does ice cream taste so good? Why is 6 ounces so small...I mean, WHO is satisfied eating a 6-ounce portion and only vegetables? Why do the best tasting foods have to be full of sugar and why does sugar have to love my hips and thighs so much? And while we are on the subject of my hips and thighs....well...maybe I shouldn't go there....

To continue my b***hing, I am completely undone by the fact that so many foods I enjoy are full of preservatives and ingredients I cannot pronounce that apparently will either give my a tumor or cancer or make me constipated...the list is long. Why can't cheeto puffs be as good for you as they taste....why can't Kashi make McDonald's hamburgers?

Life is tough with work...I have two jobs....I am in school....not to mention my family...my home...so WHY can't all food be fat free and only 20 calories per 20 ounces?? I think the world would be a happier place if cream sauce and pasta came out of fountains and chocolate was the standard. I mean, I would probably listen to Jehovah's Witnesses if they gave me a Hershey Bar...wouldn't you?

So....I am going to make it my business to compile a list of foods I enjoy that still taste good...and don't cost my entire paycheck!!

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Cake, Cream Sauce, and Life....

Okay....I am now convinced that writing down either how often you exercise or how much and what you eat really helps to control your intake and boost your output. I recently went out of town and then celebrated my father's birthday this past weekend- let's just say I didn't exactly count my calories. I have gained about three pounds, which is not terrible, but I know how EASY it is to fall out of the habit of "clean" eating and no exercise. Not to mention, all the yummy leftovers in my fridge...and I thought briefly about throwing away the food but had a personal crisis and just could NOT do it. not to mention that my husband would stroke out if I threw away lots of perfectly good food. He still eats Chinese food that is two weeks old....he likes my mama's idea of dieting and feel comfortable putting his intestine through torture. Me, however...no way!

So...I feel like I fell off the bandwagon. Writing everything out makes me feel accountable, because I know the WHOLE WORLD will know my downfall and maybe I can pick it up (if I don't start working out, it will take me two trips to pick my rear up!!) So, I am trying to "detox" and stick with lots of veggies and no bread or pasta again for a while.

I will say, however, that even though I have gained a few pounds, my doctor assures me that weight fluctuates and just keep sticking to the diet. Also, I am told I need to have a day that I can relax the diet and have some foods I really enjoy....I am not sure, because I am afraid I will pig out and spend the whole next week trying to fix what I screwed up. So I discovered a little trick....READ THE LABELS ON THE PACKAGING...eat the ice cream, but stick with ONE serving. NEVER NEVER NEVER take the entire package to the couch or to the table...and don't ask me this story...but don't take packages to the bathtub either...hot water, wine, and snacks equals five pounds. Period. Always......I said don't ask!

So...hopefully this week I can make up for the week I took off from healthy town and get back on track...minus one more night of leftovers...just small portions of leftovers....

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Falling off the Turnip Truck

Well, maybe I didn't FALL off, but I think I am half way there! In short, I have been snacking a little too much on foods I need to avoid. I ate some chips earlier today, and even though I chose Kettle chips, which are made in a healthier way, I still don't want to eat them. this week I have been SO freakin hungry. I am wondering if it is because I have been exercising more and I have been weight training. Many people believe that engaging in exercise leaves you feeling hungry. So does exercise increase hunger?

Researchers in the UK have concluded that exercise does indeed make you hungry - but the overall result will still give you a calorie deficit.
Researchers took 6 men and 6 women through the following steps.

1. Ate the same breakfast.
2. Wait for an hour.
3. One group did 60 minutes of stationary cycling (at 65% max heart rate). The other group did nothing.
4. Wait for an hour.
5. Everyone enjoyed an all-you-can-eat buffet.

The Results
The exercising group consumed 913 Calories at the buffet. The non-exercising group ate 762 Calories. However, during exercise, the first group burned 492 Calories compared to 197 Calories.
The net result: the exercisers ultimately took in around 144 less Calories.

So I guess it is natural for me to feel a little more hungry, even though this study does not seem to speak much toward anything but exercise means you are burning more calories so when you eat, you are negating some of your intake. But...it makes me feel better, so THERE!!

Oh, and my good news is....I'VE LOST 15 POUNDS!!!!! I am very excited and motivated.....and hopefully, even though I have been hungry this week, I am trying to make sure the snacks I eat are as healthy as possible...green veggies, no chips or chocolate, and yogurt. Or high levels of protein...I feel like I am getting to the point I need to step up to avoid the plateau. Also...I really want to try swimming- great overall body workout!! It's just that whole bathing suit thing...I am just not ready to put one on yet! Maybe in a few more months when I hit another 15 pounds....maybe....

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Confessions of a fat girl...

My food confessions:
1. I once ate an entire bag of cheeto puffs....and not one of those little bags, either.
2. I think french fires are delicious and when you put feta cheese on them, I cannot say no.
3. I ate cheesecake today- it was one of the BEST I have ever eaten (made by my friend Pam).
4. When I was in high school, I ate at Dairy Queen at LEAST once per week- onion rings, DOUBLE cheeseburger, milkshake...
5. Until AFTER college, I hated drinking water...
6. I used to eat two and three servings of food...with salt...and extra cheese...
7. I was drinking at LEAST 2 glasses of wine almost every day (this has been off and on the past few years...)
8. I over analyze my caloric intake.
9. I used to drink at LEAST 2-3 Cokes a day.
10. I once ate a medium pizza BY MYSELF...and then had ice cream...

I'm sure that most people can relate to any of these confessions and everyone has had moments in their food history that they regret. One point I am trying to make to myself is that I have really changed my eating habits into something not perfect, but perfect for me. I think it is important to look at what you eat and put things into your body that make you a better you....so here are the top ten points I am most proud to be changing:

1. I drink 2-3 liters of water every day.
2. I have discovered I can feel full AND eat smaller portions.
3. Soda can kill you....
4. My skin is looking better with all the good food.
5. I discovered I love vegetables...especially beets!
6. I get at least 45-60 minutes of cardio at least three times a week.
7. I discovered I can still eat cake and be healthy- a slice, not a "hunk".
8. I now drink maybe 1-3 sodas per month and NONE in the past 8 weeks.
9. I sleep better and have better BMs....seriously...THAT feels AMAZING to be regular!
10. My clothing fits and I feel like it looks good!

So I guess if I can change my bad habits and get healthy, anybody can!

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Jack it up!

Okay...get ready for it.....ready.....I'VE LOST 13 POUNDS! Oh, yeah, that's right, 13 down!!! I am almost half way to my goal of losing 30 pounds. I could hardly believe it this morning, mostly because I have been sick over the past few days and haven't really worked out since early last week. But I have been very careful about what I eaten the past few weeks and I think that is the biggest difference. I cannot tell you how nervous I was to weigh-in this morning; all I could think was "please don't let me gain any back." It felt GREAT...and it feel really great when other people comment that "You look like you've lost weight." I wanna shout "HELL, YEAH I'VE LOST WEIGHT....WOO HOO" and maybe dance around in a circle while I smack my ass. That's I feel like doing.

However, I must admit that I worry about the dreaded "plateau"- you know, when your body adjusts to what you are doing and stop LOSING and start MAINTAINING the weight...so, how can we keep dropping the LBs without starving yourself or having a stroke at the gym...

Here are my suggestions for pumping up the volume:
1. Increase your gym intensity. Did you know that toned muscles burn 50 more calories per HOUR? So start throwing in a little more weight training. You can find really good workouts online...and they even have those "dummy-proof" ones with pictures if you are like me and will literally hurt yourself unless you have a picture.

2. Start a food journal to make sure you are cutting out anything unnecessary OR if you can go to a healthier version: cut the whip cream on the latte, switch to the fat free salad dressing, put the salt DOWN!

3. Buy Spanx (that's on my to-do list also)

4. Uhhh...let me think...there was something else...Oh yeah! Stretch regularly to help relieve body stress. When we are stressed, our body produces excess Cortisol which triggers our bodies to store and hold onto fat...think survival mode.

So there are a few ways I avoid the plateau. Of course, sometimes you need a splurge- go ahead and treat yourself, but remember that means you will have to work a little harder at the gym....with the skinny blond girls...sucking your IQ down....sorry if you are skinny and blond. My favorite splurge of the week- fat free Klondike bars. Holy COW did it taste DELISH and I promise it tasted better because I felt like I really earned it!!

I think maybe I might earn that treat again in a few days!

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Small steps forward is still progress!!

Being sick wreaks havoc on your diet- some medications, like steroids, can increase your appetite and when your breathing is wheezy, that is not exactly conducive to regular work outs. So basically, the only sick that you would probably LOSE weight is the stomach flu...funny story: My mama once said that a quick way to lose 10 pounds is to eat rancid fish....2 days and you will be 10 pounds lighter! But I just don't think the misery is worth it.

So...being sick the past two days and either on the couch or in the bed. I truly have NOT been hungry but I began thinking about all those times I didn't feel good or perhaps was hurt and just SNACKED. I think we all engage in mindless eating at SOME point. So in order to combat this, I am trying a few alternatives:

1. Lots of magazines. I recently read all about Reese Witherspoon's engagement to Jim Toth- how exciting! But this alternate habit to eating can get expensive, unless you look up the tidbits online.
2. I tried movies, but honestly...I just want to eat popcorn, which is not helping my weight loss...because popcorn sucks without butter. Avoid this alternative
3. Paint your toenails...or your husbands if he will let you, which mine did not...I don't get the big deal- like he EVER wears open toed shoes...

I will say that I have still kept off my 10 pounds...I actually have lost another 1/4 of a pound, which depressed me a little. I was hoping for another 2-3, but only 1/4?? REALLY? I haven't even sniffed bread or pasta and I have been sweating like a ho in church at the gym...for only 1/4??? Then Scott pointed out that my behind looked nice. And then I felt better.

But of course, I had to stop and think about the mentality behind my feelings- I feel so healthy and great and I am upset that I ONLY lost 1/4 of a pound? This plays into the whole acceptance problem I have with my body. So....I made myself look at my naked body again to remind me that I am changing even if my numbers weren't. And I still wear the same sizes in clothing, but I can tell a difference in fit and comfort. In addition, I truly don't even miss bread...I miss pasta, but I am getting to the point I can add that back on occasion and in extreme moderation. Tonight Scott made hamburgers and fries; I didn't even WANT more than 2 fries and I nixed the bread. I was very proud of myself. I added a bowl of mushrooms and beets and felt completely satisfied.

Okay, world, I am tired and my head is hurting...time for my meds....signing off,

Miss Mad

That Which Jiggles is not always Jolly....

While running my 5K this morning and listening to the Black Eyed Peas...I had time to reflect on all the parts of myself that jiggle. Here's a list of my jiggly parts: underarms, upper inner thighs, belly, and back. My boobs jiggle too, but I figured that is just part of the "I am woman" deal. I guess my toughest question is how to get rid of the jiggle I want to lose? Hours of toning?Yeah....THAT'S how I want to spend my evenings...being sweating in odd positions so that my my skin will shrink wrap and fit- a tight fit. However, I wanted to figure out some ways I could work on the tone without feeling like I am getting nowhere. PLUS- who wants to feel sore all the time?

So while working on this new and exciting problem, I discovered lots of 15-20 minute workouts that tone and most of them have to do with a movement called Pilates.The Pilates method seeks to develop controlled movement from a strong core and it does this using a range of apparatuses to guide and train the body. In contemporary Pilates other props are used, including small weighted balls, foam rollers, large exercise balls, rotating disks, and resistance bands.I just bought a pilates workout video by Denise Austin, the perkiest trainer on the planet...BUT...of each of the three 15 minute workouts is pretty good and focus on my jiggly parts.

Of course, I am still trying to push the cardio and keep up the intensity, which is tough. I am worried about what will happen as time goes on- how do I follow a "normal" routine and keep the weight off? Making a lifestyle change is tough...too bad fried chicken isn't fat free...I might be okay! However, I feel good knowing I am not on an expensive weight loss system and I am not spending loads of cash on food- I have only changed the foods I was buying. Also, I wanted to share that yesterday, I ate a do-nut (if I was a guy, I totally would have had a woody..) and I didn't feel bad at all. I really think it tasted BETTER because I am not overeating and I knew I was going to the gym.The only piece of this journey that feels EASY is trading foods off- it feels like a challenge, which I LOVE...

So...all in all...the weight loss is going well, but I have a feeling that I will have some gain along with the loss as I adjust to a new lifestyle, not just a new diet!

Signing off,

Miss Mad

Double Digit!

Yes- that's right! I have lost 10 pounds! I am so excited and proud and happy and hungry and....relieved! Before I got on the scale today (and I try to use the same one so I can get a decent reading) I was nervous; if my weight stabilized, then I needed to amp it up...if I gained weight, then I would feel so discouraged...but losing another 3 pounds this week really boosted my motivation...cause I just don't have time to work out more. Unless I start doing lunges while I teach...or invent a home liposuction machine...

What makes this so exciting for me is I have only been "healthy" for the past three weeks...pretty good, huh? And in those three weeks, I have drunk wine a few times, I have eaten Italian food, I have eaten two small bite sized pieces of chocolate almost EVERY day, and I still have sugar in my coffee and hot tea. So...it can be done!

Now that I have finished my update and covered what up....let me share some foods I am really enjoying at this moment in time...that means this week:
1. Ancient Red Peppers....taste just like red bell peppers...awesome snack!
2. Individual cottage cheese cups- 90 calories baby and low fat!
3. Beets...from a can...with salad dressing....YUM...
4. Green beans with water chestnuts....try it, I assure you- you will enjoy...
5. Brown rice with a little Terryiaki sauce...Amy Chun makes a sprouted brown rice- find it in the organic section- and it is delish...and pre-portioned!!

So...I guess you get the idea? A good point to make, however, is not to eat or buy things you won't eat. I LOVE all the foods I mentioned, so spending money on them makes sense because I will eat it...losing weight really isn't hard...motivation is hard! But once you hit a few pounds, you just feel soooo much better!! Hopefully next week I will see another few pounds go...10 down, 17 to go!

Signing off,
Miss Mad

The Naked Truth

I do not look at myself naked. I do not like for my husband to see me naked. I do not like to think about my body naked and I am fearful if I ever have a car accident, I will frighten the doctor who may have to see me naked. I do not like to feel my body jiggle when I walk (I have more jiggle than Bill Cosby in a room full of Jell-o)...so WHY should I look at myself naked?

I have spent a significant amount of time sitting in front of my closet crying about my weight and I have pitched fits and once actually ripped a shirt I was so upset about how I looked in it. Usually, I pull and shift my clothes because I WILL NOT wear something I feel might even remotely show a hint of fat or muffin top. This has cost me many a good moods; I think what is most difficult is realizing the mental state BEHIND the weight. I have really been searching into why I feel so obsessed by my weight- my mother never berated me, my friends never teased me, and I don't really remember being called fat (and I was a CHUNK!) The more I  think about it, the more I realize that it is an image issue and even Heidi Klum has issues with her body and she is THE body. I have come to the conclusion that I must take my journey one day at a time and that sometimes you have bad days.

I do have to say that one of the changes I have decided on is not to follow The Dukan Diet. I just don't think I can continue the diet forever so I do not want to start it, but the changes I am making now I feel like I can continue. I feel like I can commit to the gym 2-3 times per week, and maybe shrinking my portion sizes. I am really excited to say I have LOST 7 POUNDS and it feels great. I can tell a big difference in not only my clothing, but in my attitude. No to say that I do not have moments of weakness. I still have little individual chocolates at my desk and I usually eat one or two each day. I still have a little ranch dressing ON THE SIDE to dip my veggies in. But the difference is I am taking in probably half the calories I was a month ago.

Just one month has made such a difference- I actually made myself look at me naked....and it wasn't as bad as I thought! I still hated it, but it wasn't as bad as I thought. And maybe I will look again in another month.

Eating out is tough when your body shouts at you....

And what exactly does my body shout at me, you ask? It screams...a minute on the lips a lifetime on your hips! However, while my head tries really hard to keep up with my stomach, my stomach is a LOUD party animal and frequently drowns out my head. So I have been working on dealing with not only eating healthy and exercising, but also dealing with the voice in my head that constantly whispers "eat".

Controlling the voice at home has not been as hard as I thought, but last night I went out to eat with my cousin and her son. We went to Depalma's, a popular Italian eatery in Athens. PANIC! PASTA! CREAM SAUCE! Sweet Jesus....help me say no. But what I discovered is this: it is okay to eat a "celebration meal." It is NOT okay to gorge until you feel like you should push your car home. Just remember to balance out your meals. And in case you are wondering, I ate half a cesar  salad, and about three quarters of lasagna. However, for breakfast that morning, I had a smoothie and for lunch a salad with lots of veggies. I also spent an hour at the gym and drank about 3 liters of water during the day. So what is important is the balance you have in your diet; when you add something on the "yummy junk food side" you have to add something on the "health and exercise" side.

Observations on Dieting...

Okay, friends...progress update first, then we will get to observations. I have lost about 5 pounds, which didn't feel like much until I opened my freezer and looked at 1 POUND of meat. WHOA MAMA! Fat adds up, so I feel pretty good so far and I have noticed that my clothing fits better. So...what is my secret? A sensible diet and exercise. A sample daily menu may include: a smoothie for breakfast (made by my sweet husband who uses frozen or fresh fruit, honey, yogurt, and juice); a snack around 10:00- usually a plum, apple, or yogurt; for lunch, a salad with cottage cheese and maybe some grilled chicken or fish; a afternoon snack- repeat from morning snack; and for dinner something sensible. The biggest difference is that I am trying to avoid refined sugars and carbs. So no soft drinks and around 2 liters of water per day.

Okay....now that I have shared my personal journey, here are my observations so far on dieting:

1. Water is very satisfying, but I hate having to go to the bathroom ALL THE FREAKIN' TIME.

2. Skinny people must be miserable 85% of the day because they do not eat chocolate...or bread....or butter...or gravy...my apologies if you are tiny and reading this and NOT hungry....liar,liar, pants on fire.

3. Even though I enjoy the foods I AM eating, it is no fun to eat your cold salad with no cheese and low fat dressing while your friends eat a hot Chic-fil-a sandwich and delicious french fries...there really is just no way to get over this.

4.Eating right takes a lot of work! Planning the meal, having a variety of snack foods on hand...I spend lots of time just planning the meal and cutting up veggies....

Of course, while being on a diet stinks, I am seeing the results! And that is worth all the "hardships" I can see in my dieting future.

Signing off, Miss Mad

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly...

So far, so good! Well....maybe a few bumps along the road. I broke down on Saturday night and had potato chips with a hamburger (no bun), BUT...today I had whole wheat cereal (Kashi Berry Blend), some corn chowder for lunch (about a cup), and a salad with salmon for dinner....pretty good huh? AND...I felt satisfied all day! In addition, I went to the gym today, but did NOT go all weekend...not good.

I wanted to draw attention to some articles I saw on Yahoo today- it chronicled eight people  who blogged about their weight loss! If you’re trying to lose weight, health experts recommend writing down what you eat. Why? Because it works! A Kaiser Permanente study found that those who jotted down their intake lost twice as much as those who didn’t. Here is a sample from the article:


Blog: RonisWeigh.com; Total Pounds Lost: 70
How I Did It: I finally realized that not everything revolved around how I looked in a bathing suit. I stopped seeking some insane vision of skinniness and joined Weight Watchers with the intent of learning how to eat, not reaching a certain size. The small shift in focus made all the difference for me.
How My Blog Helped: I decided to post a weekly update on my blog to report my progress. This small commitment to post the good, bad and ugly was a huge part of my success. It gave me a place to face the emotional side of weight loss: I celebrated my losses, cried about my gains and vented when I felt like whining.
Top Tip: Set non-weight-related goals to build your confidence. Sometimes the scale will not be your friend, so you should set goals that are within your control: Sign up for a 5K, start a food journal or blog and commit to it, ditch the diet soda, have a four-day-a-week walking goal. Declare the goal, reach it and then set another.

 I can completely relate to her struggle with the shift in focus on the attitude of "getting healthy". It is a daily struggle with me on "am I trying to be healthy....or skinny?" So writing it down for everyone to see really helps me be accountable to myself. It is amazing to me how many of the people featured changed their food habits first, then added in the exercise. It takes time, but after a while, you feel so much better when you eat good, whole foods. OF COURSE, I will still eat McDonalds.....but ONLY rarely. Of course....I will still have Coca-cola- but only 1-2 a month. I have surprised myself that I am still really enjoying eating all the raw veggies and salads, etc. It has really been easy to cut out the refined carbs and processed foods. YES...it does cost more, but my health and weight are worth it. Besides, do I REALLY need another pair of shoes? I wear sneakers to work, so I can do without new shoes for a while! 

I hope that you all are enjoying following my weight loss journey. I will be weighing in tomorrow to see how much I have lost. At my last weigh in, I was down four pounds. hopefully more!! And on a side note, I am still waiting on my diet book- The Durac Diet. I also have a doctor appointment tomorrow to discuss options and make sure this diet is a good choice. I want to keep the weight off this time!


Hoping you all have a great week!
Miss Mad

Surviving "Snow-Palooza"

Living in Georgia, we are not used to regular snow showers, so when we are gifted with a snowstorm, Southerns basically go into hibernation for a few days. Of course, with each day being stuck in the house, my vow to not snack and eat "healthy" felt like a chastity belt around my mouth. So...how did I handle no regular cardio and my eating?

Well, to begin with, I planned; the weather was going to be bad, so I made sure I had healthy snacks- no, mom, not tofu, but snacks I enjoy like dill pickles, apples, sliced veggies, cheese, etc. AND...the best part is that most of these foods come in individual packages, so the measuring is already done! If you are counting calories, this is extremely helpful. According to my Dukan diet (which I am STILL waiting on the book, AMAZON!!!), as long as foods are zero carbs, zero fat, and zero sugar, you can have as much as you want! Happily, this is where dairy fits into the diet. So I stocked up and got ready for a few days of snow. Of course, what we thought was a few days turned into an entire week, so how can I fit in some exercise? Easy peesy! For starters, I have two videos that I try to participate with at least once a week. One is Jillian Michaels "30 Day Shred" and the other is Denise Austin's "Daily Dozen". I try to incorporate these into my weekly routine because both use strength training, so I get some weights into my exercise plan. Plus, both videos are quick and easy to follow! BONUS!

Now...I did snack some but I tried to be cool about it- if I had a glass of wine, then salad for dinner it is and my salads are delish! I use LOTS of colorful veggies and usually choose two different dressings to use, so I am not bored (and those salad dressings are on the side). In addition, I ADORE potatoes, especially fries and chips, so I tried Veggie Chips (found in the organic section) and I really enjoyed them! As for fries...I just don't think there is a low fat option, so I just have to think of fries as Brad Pitt and adore them from afar.

Overall, I feel pretty good about the week- I am still not tired of salads, but I have nixed the lettuce and just started to eat lots of raw veggies...really good! And maybe I should go ahead and throw this out there- for about the past 7 years, I have only drank about 2-3 carbonated beverages per month, usually none. Water, water, water, people!! And since giving that up and sucking down the H2O, my bowel movements have really become regular! Thank you, Lord!

I was able to incorporate exercise and I ended up at the gym twice and walked around 'hood a few times. In addition, I pulled out the hands weights, then tried some old fashioned push-ups and planks. So...truly there is no reason that exercise can't be incorporated into the day and with videos as short as 11 minutes....just do it!

Miss Mad, signing off....

It's time to come clean...

Okay...I admit it...I want to be a size 4. I have always said that I just want to be healthy and I only want to lose a few pounds, but the truth is, I hate my body. When I look in the mirror, I hate the parts I can see...my flabby arms, the extra pounds around my middle, the pieces I can pinch on my back. However, when I reflect on this, I realize that it is unhealthy to wish to be that small. With my bone structure, I would look like something out of a Dr. Suess book....or Stephen King, depending on your literary flavor.

So, I am coming clean and admitting it out loud.And now that I can admit it to everyone, how do you change that image? Because I love magazines and T.V. and I don't see too many "hefties" on the boob tube. So what is the first step to improving my acceptance of myself?

First of all, being healthy doesn't equate to skinny. Many health professionals agree that health is a cultural problem. We are a "grab and go" society, always moving, never stopping- unless it involves our couch and T.V. And the moves we throw out aren't the right ones- otherwise gym dues would be included in our health care plan, right? I wish!

So here are Miss Mad's tips for being healthy:
1. Don't be sedentary- it is linked to disease. Walk around every hour, even if only for five minutes.
2. Get at least 7 hours of sleep each night, unless you can't. Then talk to your doctor cause you are weird.
3. Eat fewer packaged foods- and don't throw the "expense" excuse. you don't have to have fresh blueberries every day, but you can buy fresh veggies and fruits like apples and oranges inexpensively. Money is better spent on good food than expensive face cream....
4. Have breakfast- not McDonald's, either...it is not hard to grab some yogurt or oatmeal...and they do make a whole grain waffle.
5. Dump the five food felons: saturated fat, trans fat, added syrups, simple sugars, and any grain that isn't whole grain (took that from Dr. Michael Roizon).

Ultimately, I know I will always battle not my weight, but my PERCEPTION of myself. But I also know the more information I have and the harder I work to be healthy, not skinny, I can win the war. I don't want to mold myself into something I am not; it is an unnatural state to be skinny, shaved, waxed, Botoxed, plucked, and have no hips....it's stressful for the mind and body and will never create happiness in life.

So my struggle goes on, but I feel a little better putting it out there that I will not give in or give up on myself in my journey toward loving myself and being healthy. Top that, Gisele.....

The Fall?

Before I begin my usual post, I would like to comment on the number of people at Kroger this morning. I saw a woman with four gallons of milk and another with three loaves of bread. Seriously, people, we are not going to be cut of from civilization for the next month! It's just a snow storm. I promise by Wednesday you will be able to make it to Kroger. Calm yourself....

Now, onto my favorite subject- dieting! It SUCKS.....and it is hard. Trying to avoid fatty foods, carbs, increase protein, and balance a gym schedule....I want to pull my hair out while I rock back and forth in the fetal position. And then I want to eat an entire bag of potato chips...

Seriously, it isn't THAT bad, but it is tough to maintain a diet. I am trying to lower the portion size and cut the snacking with fatty, gross food. But actually cutting carbs is hard. Like Chinese arithmetic hard. I finally caved today and bought some bread (whole wheat, 35 calories per slice) and had a grilled cheese with soup for lunch. With the increase in working out, I feel like decreasing my carb intake is not the best idea, so how can I make things work for me, yet still be healthy? Well, limiting my carbohydrate intake to a better level, but not completely limiting them. Maintaining the gym time (this past week, I went 5 days!), and increasing the healthy snacks ( apple with peanut butter- Better n' Peanut Butter is my fav).

And most importantly, telling myself I AM WORTH IT! Seriously...it is time to believe it!

Let her eat cake....

So here I am on Friday afternoon and I am feeling nervous. Why, you ask? Weekends are tough on me...food-wise. I have an easy time not snacking when I am working, but Saturday and Sunday afternoons, I feel like snacking. Dieting is hard work, and I really want a reward! However, I thought the only type of cheating to feel quilty over involved a man that you were NOT connected to....but cheating on your diet is planty bad! And for the record, I ADORE my husband.

So, here are Miss Mad's tips for beating the weekend snack attacks:
1. If you need a "free meal" have two other healthy meals during the day. For instance, I am married to a man that could whip Bobby Flay's ass, so I will eat yogurt for breakfast and a salad for lunch. That way, I can enjoy my dinner. In addition, I am also going to the gym, so I can have added peace of mind.
2. If you have to have something crazy, cut the calories somewhere else. Have some chips, but drink water.

One thing I know FOR SURE: I will not deny myself. It just isn't going to happen, so I am trying to be smarter about the choices I make for myself. And for the record...I lost FOUR PUONDS ALREADY! Don't hate me cause you ain't me, just get on the treadmill beside me.

Well....here's the menu for the day: Greek yogurt for breakfast, spinach salad with salmon for lunch, and a piece of chocolate pound cake for snack (it was a friend's birthday- WHAT? Like I can say no to birthday cake?). Dinner includes some of my left overs from last night.

So...have a GREAT weekend! I know I will!

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Jillian Michaels must die....

Don't get me wrong, I love everyone, but Jillian Michaels is trying to kill me with her squat thrusts and walking push-ups. No matter the wonderful results that you WILL get if you continue trying, I have a physical reaction when Jillian tells her viewing audience they will look like her in NO TIME. This, to me, is like saying "Size 6 is only 54,763 miles away so start running." It just doesn't happen in no time, Jillian. Liar, liar, pants on fire...

So...in trying to organize my workout schedule I have tried to increase cardio to 40-50 minutes at LEAST 3-4 times per week and throw in weight training at least twice. Did you know that you burn up to 50 MORE calories per hour with toned muscles? Hello?? That adds up...

Also, wanted to throw out my menu for the day: fruit smoothie for breakfast, spinach salad for lunch, mushrooms for a snack with balsamic dressing and just a TOUCH of ranch for a snack. Tonight I am actually cooking dinner; I have chosen a chicken stir fry with fat free terriayki, incorporating mung beans, mushrooms, onions, and water chesnuts. Sounds yummy huh?

Miss Mad, signing off....

The Plan

I weighed myself today for the first time since last week when I went to the doctor's office- I still don't understand why they INSIST on weighing me. I never though I would share my actual weight with the world, but my weight is....YEAH, RIGHT! Like I am ever gonna share that. But, for the sake of my blog experience, let's say it is somewhere in between 150 and 250....and for the love of GOD, do not guess and post that number. So I am sure you all wondering- what exactly IS your plan, Miss Mad? Let me share...

Trying to decide what diet to try is like walking through a clearance room of Jimmy Choos- you have to look at each one, try it on, and make a tough desicion on whether you really want to pay  your mortgage or buy shoes. However, in the world of diet, time is money. If you don't lose weight, your motivation will dwindle. So...I came up with several points to consider when picking out the right diet for you:
1. Easy- DUH! Mama is not a chef and I sure ain't gonna buy some crazy food. This eliminates Nutri-system and Slim fast, both of which I saw commercials for while at the gym today.
2.Quick weight loss- I know my motivation and I would like to see some pounds drop quickly to keep me interested. Could Atkins be the right move?
3. Will this diet help me change my eating habits- I want a diet that has a LONG TERM plan built in so sorry Atkins, you are not for me.

Now, I have considered several diets and when I visited Barnes and Noble, there seems to be a plethora of choices, some of which GUARANTEE to make your ass disappear. I am wondering if they were written by the Wizard of Oz.

So...which diet did I choose? The Dukan Diet; currently, it is not available in the U.S. until May, but people in France and Englad have experienced this for years. So I had to IMPORT my book....hence my 45 days- 15 days to start and then 30 days to begin implementing my new eating plan. Here's the skinny on The Dukan Diet:

There are four phases: Attack, Cruise, Consolidation, and The rest of your life.This diet works for me because it uses low-fat protein and dairy, leafy greens, and lots of water, all of which I love. And, it meets my three criteria in a major way. Now, I am waiting on the book to get the specifics, so I will fill you in later.

So....my plan is to begin trying to cut down on portion size, eat more veggies, and get my white ass back in the gym for 15 days...so when I add the diet, I won't feel like I have committed myself to 45 days of misery.

So...today is day two. I had a fruit smoothie for breakfast, a banana for a snack, a salad for lunch with low fat balsamic dressing, an apple with peanut butter for a snack, and I haven't decided on dinner. This is accompanied by 3 liters of water. AND...I went to the gym and glared at the tiny little blond girl who doesn't sweat. For 50 minutes. I have been a good girl today....

Signing off,
Miss Mad

Is today the day?

Do you know the saying "A minute on the lips, a lifetime on the hips"? Well....for me....it is more like "A second on the eyes, a lifetime on the thighs"....depressing, right? I have never thought of myself as fat, just plump, maybe chunky; I was once called "fluffy". Fluffy is only nice if someone refers to your hair. A few years ago, I started going to the gym and spent the equivalency of a year in a private school on a trainer. Naturally, I lost weight. However, I got married....and gained the weight of my wedding dress. So...yes...I am now- officially- fat. And I hate it. The problem certainly is not my ability to get off my couch. No, no! It is my love of food- specifically potatoes, wine, pasta, and sauce. Just typing it makes me want some...in my bathtub so I can luxuriate in it!

This is where the diet comes in- I have never tried to diet. I have never believed it could work because eventually you will have to go OFF the diet, thereby changing your eating habits toward being a slob. However desperate times call for desperate measures and I have decided that perhaps if I try, I just might make a good change and lose some pounds in the process. Or it will kill me.

So I have decided to chronicle my journey and share it with whomever wants to read...and probably laugh at me. Enjoy my pain as I give up potatoes, wine, pasta, and sauce- for 45 days. Well...maybe not wine COMPLETELY...