My Journey to a Thinner, Healthier Me

Hello Everyone

2009-10-21T13:42:00.002-04:00

It has been some time since I have updated my blog and am sorry. It was a busy start to the summer and then my mom had a massive stroke July 31st and she passed away Aug 8th. She was 83 Years old. Her death really took a toll on me and my family. Most of August is a complete blur. Since Mid july, there has been 4 deaths in the family. Just way too many.

So onto good news, I complete my Weight Watcher's Receptionist training and worked alot the throughout the summer (excpt for a few weeks surrounding Mom's stroke and then her death). September I took the Weight Watcher's Leader training and I was just informed today that I am now officially a Leader! WOOOHOOOOOO!

I did my speech in Hamilton on the benefits of weight loss and knee replacement and that went very well. There was about 800 people there.

So now to find a new goal for myself. I have completed every one I have made to date since joining Weight Watchers and am sure the best is yet to come!

Lots Has Been Happening

2009-06-16T14:33:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone

It has been some time since I have updated my blog and I apologize. Times have been busy for me.

This coming Thursday I will be completeing my training for employment with Weight Watchers. I am soooooooo enjoying the work. I really think I have found my calling, being able to assist others with their weight loss journey. It is very rewarding.
For now, I will work as a receptionist and in the near future, I plan on taking the Leadership Training to become a meetings leader.

This morning I had a phone call from the surgeon who replaced my knee. Now for a little background on the knee replacement before I continue.

3 years ago this past March, I had my left knee replaced. I was almost at my highest weight at the time of the surgery, around 280 pounds. The surgeon told me I was at high risk for deep vein thrombosis (blood clots) and deep bone infection. If the latter happened, I could have lost my leg. He was also concerned as I did not have any knee cap and there was a good chance the knee just wouldnt work that well. I had been in terrific pain since my 20's and I was willing to take the risk. The surgery went without incident and I spent the next 4 or 5 days in the hospital. The swelling was unbelievable but I persisted, doing what the therapists and docs and nurses told me to do. It was very hard to walk due to my weight and the fact the other knee has to be done as well. I was sent home with instruction and proceeded to do what I needed to do. About a week after I got home, the swelling was getting worse. It was to the point I thought my leg and foot would explode from the pressure and there was pain. I returned back to the hospital and they did an ultrasound. Due to my size, it was very hard for them to see the deep veins, but they were pretty sure I had a blood clot. I was put on some medication and returned home.

Things were going pretty well, but due to my size, the recovery was slow. 6 months after the surgery, I was in a pretty bad car accident and it set my recovery back quite a bit but I persisted. I joined Weight Watchers Feb 1, 2007. I saw the surgeon March 2007 and he was pleased with my progress and said unless something happened, I would see him in 2 years, March 2009.

So, this past March, I saw him, almost 3 years from the date of the surgery. He looked at the knee x-ray, looked at me and did this a few times and then said...."OK, "I'd know that knee x-ray anywhere but who are you?" I laughed, stood up and he was absolutely blown away with my accomplishment. I told him a very short recap of my journey to date and he somehow wanted to showcase this.

So today, I received a phone call from him personally. I have been asked to be a guest speaker at an Orthoplasty Conference/Seminar in September on all that weight loss can do for a person who had little chance of the surgery working and everything I couldn't do before, that I can do know. He is just so proud of me and wants people to hear my story.

I was totally blown away by this, and very honoured to be asked to do this.

So between now and September, I have to write about a 10 minute speech to go along with a slideshow presentation of my before and after journey and present it! I am sooooooooo excited!

This week I will be completing my training as a receptionist for Weight Watchers and start work next week. After a period of time as a receptionist, I will take the Leader training and become a Leader.

My life could not be better right now and I owe it all to my hard work and Weight Watchers!

I DID IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-04-23T14:59:00.002-04:00

Today was my interview with the Weight Watchers Territory Manager. I got the job with WW! WOOOHOOOOOOOOO! I am soooooo exicted to be able to work for them, share my experiences and help more people with their journey. It was another goal I had set out to do and I succeeded to get a job with WW. Who would have thought that late in my 40's, that these would be these best times in my life. Only onto better and better times now!

Resume is Done

2009-03-22T16:08:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone!

It has been a long cold winter here in Southern Ontario and sure glad spring is pretty well here.

Things have been going very well here. I am maintaining my weight with no problems. I still go to the meetings every week as so enjoy them, and there is always something new to learn.

My resume is completed and all set to take into the meeting this coming Thursday. I am looking forward to possibly being able to work for Weight Watchers and to help people even more than I do right now with their journeys.

I recently went through a slight scare..... found a lump and had to have a lumpectomy. Thankfully, the results came in from the biopsy and it was BENIGN! WOOOHOOOOO! An NSV for me....... no stress eating throughout and I am proud of myself for that. Support from friends and family is so great to have. That is part of the reason I want to work for WW. So many do not have that support and if I can offer some to them, it makes me feel good.

New Pic

2009-01-26T08:33:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone

It has been a while since I have posted on here. There really has not been anything much happening. I just got back from a week and a half trip to Ottawa. Coldest time of the year but it was an enjoyable time.

I also went shopping and got some clothes that fit me! Wooohoooooo. Here is pic of me in my "skinny jeans" and one of the new tops I got. To think 2 years ago I wore size 50 jeans, and these are size 13! I can hardly believe it myself but am so darned proud of all I have accomplished!

Long Time Not Updating

2008-12-15T17:19:00.002-05:00

It has been a while since I have visited my blog and I am sorry. Moved again the end of October and things were very hectic.

I have been very frustrated as of late, still losing while trying to maintain my weight. As you can see, I have lost, though not my choice. Seems I have developed Thyroid Antibodies that are messing with my thyroid meds. (I had my thyroid out 6 years ago) These antibodies, the doc figures, are what is messing with my weight. He is running lots of tests to check for everything to be on the safe side. I find myself having to eat ALL my FLEX points and Activity points just to only lose 1/2pound or more when I go to WI. I don't want to lose anymore!

The new Momentum Plan at WW, is basically what I have been doing all along so things have not really changed for me as far as the program goes.

Christmas will soon be upon us and I am ready early this year! WOOHOOOOO! There will be new pics for you to see from over the Holidays.

LIFETIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-02T12:22:00.004-04:00

Well, after 20 months I have made it LIFETIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It is something to be very proud of. Our Leader Helen, presented me with flowers from the staff at our meetings, my lifetime card, ribbon and key for my ring. I am totally on cloud 9. It has been A LOT of very hard work to get to this point on my lifelong journey and certainly no time to say well that is done and now I can eat whatever I want. I will continue to live this healthy lifestyle.

The next step on my journey is to work for WW, hopefully as a leader one day, so I can inspire and help others to obtain their goals as much as Helen and everyone at the meetings and the WW message boards has done and will continue to do.

Maintaining Well

2008-09-18T12:18:00.002-04:00

So today was the day I decided I would get dressed for the colder temps to arrive and wore long pants to WI instead of shorts. I was up 1 pound but I knew it was the clothing so no worries there.

Today's topic at the meeting was all about our mindset and how our thinking can influence our success or failure, not just with living a healthy lifestyle but in all walks of life. The power of positive thinking is the only way to look at things. I was one who never thought I could achieve my goal when I started WW. 120 pounds was just too overwhelming. But as time went on, I listened intently to our leader and took it all in. As the weight started to come off, I was feeling better, able to do more and then it was like a light bulb went off and I was saying,"I CAN DO THIS. I WILL DO THIS" I learned to say No Thank You and not feel guilty about it. I am doing this for me.

I do say THANK YOU to Weight Watchers and all the wonderful people I have come to think of as friends and my "other" family. Our leader is wonderful. The meetings are interesting and she makes you feel that you can continue to live a healthy lifestyle and enjoy life. You can tell she genuinely cares and wants to help everyone succeed.
I hope one day, to be able to do the same thing.

For anyone reading my blog, I want you to know that Weight Watchers is the BEST and HEALTHIEST way to live. It is NOT a diet and ALL your goals are attainable. YOU CAN DO IT!

Hello Everyone!

2008-09-17T08:47:00.002-04:00

I have not been keeping up with posting as of later so here is an update.

Maintenance is going very well. Tomorrow will be WI #4 and I am currently 3 pounds under my goal weight. Maintenance is tricky. Developing a new mindset, getting used to not wanting to see the numbers go down on the scale.

October 2nd is the big day. I will achieve Lifetime Status at the meetings and I am very excited about that. I feel great. Everyone but 1 person (and she is no longer a part of my life) thinks I look fantastic. I had to go get a new pic taken for diver's license yesterday and even the girl at the counter commented positively by comparing the old and new pics. I plan on taking my camera to the meeting on the 2nd and asking one of the other members to take some shots of me and our leader when I get my GOLD card.

One thing I have learned on this journey is the power of being positive. Positive thinking and getting rid of the negativity around me. Negativity bring on more of the same and can be detrimental to our successes, be it weight loss, healthy living, work, every part of our lives.

My doctor is just so thrilled with me. Everytime I go to see him for a check up etc. he just comes into the room smiling, so happy. He said that in all his years of doctoring, I am the very first patient he has had, that has lost this amount of weight without diet pills or surgery. He is sooooooo proud of me.

Week 2 Complete

2008-09-04T17:21:00.003-04:00

Well, week 2 of maintenance is now complete and I am maintaining my weight just fine so far. Maintenance is a whole new ballgame. Totally different mindset and not easy. After 19 months of wanting to see the scale numbers go down, it is hard to want to see them stay the same or very close to the goal weight. I have some play room with a loss last week but not enough that I want to just say to heck with it and go wild.

We are on the move again by the end of October. Things just are not working out here in the new apartment and it is best if we get outta here ASAP. Most people want to eat when they are stressed and I WAS like that too. Now I find I am just the opposite and I am very stressed right now but am making sure I am eating ALL my daily points.

It is so important to fuel our bodies properly with healthy foods. I have learned that not eating or not eating the proper foods is a surefire way to put the pounds on.

New Pic!

2008-08-23T16:22:00.003-04:00

Starting weight: 299 pounds Current weight: 179.2 pounds

This was taken this afternoon at my mom & dad's place. As you all know, I don't like my picture being taken but here ya go! I will have a few more to add as soon as I get some taken.

GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-08-21T12:00:00.002-04:00

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!! Today is the most special day of my life! I made goal with .8 pounds to spare.

I am so much on cloud nine right now (although I am home alone and no one to celebrate with right now except the dog!)

It has been a long hard journey to get to this point, and not all weeks have been great. There were many ups and downs along the way but the main thing I always kept saying to myself is..... Marsha, You are worth it. You can and WILL do it.

My journey with WW will be for a lifetime. I will work through the 6 weeks of mainenance and then I will become a LIFETIME member. This means a whole new mindset now. Wanting to see the scales read the same weight or close to it, every week.

This is not the end of my blog as this is a lifelong journey and I hope those of you that come to read my blog will enjoy reading how my life progresses through maintenance and becoming a lifetime member.

New pics will be here by the weekend!

Hello Everyone

2008-07-27T20:52:00.002-04:00

It has been a little while since I have posted. Have been busy with all kinds of summer activities (moving, getting settled, playing golf, BBQ's etc.) This past week has been a very long week with the passing of one of my mom's sisters on the 21st of July. It was a sad time, but we have super great memories of her and she will always be in our hearts.

My weight loss has been fairly steady throughout the summer, and I have lost a total of 114.2 pounds! It seems unreal most of time, but I am now seeing a thinner, healthier me in the mirror. With only 4.8 pounds to get to goal, I am soooooooo excited.

My journey will never end. This IS a lifestyle now. I don't struggle with eating out at restaurants or at someone's house any more. I still fiind people get offended when I don't take certain foods when they serve them, but that is my choice and only mine. This whole journey may have seemed selfish to most, but it "REALLY IS ALL ABOUT ME", not anyone else. I did this for me, not for an occasion, or because my doctor wanted me to lose weight.

My Aunt Jean commented to me this past week and she said, " Marsha..... You have always been beautiful to me, but your are absolutely georgous! There is an aura of self confidence around you, you are just beaming with pride. I have never seen you this way and I like it!" I was a little embarrassed but afterwards I thought about it and I should not have been. I thanked her very much and told her it is a new me, and I plan on being this way the rest of my life.

WW is a way of life and for someone who has struggled all her life, this journey will never end. For all of you who read this and are on WW or are thinking about it, I just want you to know that YOU CAN DO THIS! It is not rocket science. It is pure common sense - you have to eat to lose weight, but it is what you eat and how much of it that takes some time to adjust to. After I reach lifetime, I am going to persue a career with Weight Watchers. I want to share my journey with everyone and be able to help others achieve their goals.

I'm Back!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-05T08:47:00.002-04:00

Well I have been MIA for a wee bit. We have moved and are pretty well settled now. It was a stressful time but I managed to keep things under control and stayed OP throughout the move and showed a great weight loss during that time.

Went to the docs yesterday and everything is super great. I have never seen my doctor so excited and happy about my journey. We had a long discussion and he wanted me to reset my goal weight to 180 from 175 and doesn't want me to go lower than 180 (within reason). It is still within my weight range for WW so I am good with it. Also an NSV yesterday! I dropped down another size in jeans.... into a 34 from a 50! WOOOHOOOOO!

So I am now 10.2 pounds from my goal!!!!!!!!!!!!!! How exiciting is that! Never thought I would ever be saying that when there was well over 100 pounds to go to get to my goal. I am so proud of myself and so is my family and my SO is the most proud of me. I have not thought about a reward to myself for when I reach goal so I think I had better get thinking about it. I really want to get a new Tat and it will probably be that.

A Special Day Indeed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-29T21:33:00.004-04:00

So, going to my WI this morning I had no expectations of what was to happen today. I felt great and knew that I did do everything right for my health and my weight loss journey. Standing in line at the scale, the people infront of me we leaving the scale, very disappointed and one woman was just about in tears. It was my turn. I got to the scale and asked our leader if the scale was jinxed today? She just smiled and said no, it won't be. I stepped on the scale and quite to my surprise, I was down -3.2 pounds. That in itself was fantastic news. Then I realized that I was now 100.2 pounds lighter and I was also below 200 pounds..... in ONDERLAND!

I was at the scales fairly early and my leader just let out this hoot..... YIPPEE! Everyone stopped and looked. Then I was just beaming. When the meeting started, Helen, our leader gave me my 100 pounds ring for my keychain. She was just soooo proud. Everyone cheered for me. I was just a little overwhelmed to say the least. 16 months ago, I never thought I would get this far, my self confidence was nil and I was so discusted with myself.

WW has taught me so much, first and foremost, to love myself. I am worth it. This took a lot of soul searching to realize it. Thinking positive. That is so important. Negativity draws the negative towards us. I work on the positive each and every day. I have learned to say NO THANK YOU. Some people's noses get a tad out of joint, but they will get over it and I do what I need to do, for me and only me. This is NOT a diet, but a lifestyle change and I have changed my lifestyle around 360 degrees.

I probably could write a novel after I get to goal, maintenance and then lifetime, but the novel will never end..... so my hope is to oneday, share my journey with others, possibly as a success story and then a WW leader. WW has changed my life.

My WI this week

2008-05-15T14:24:00.002-04:00

Well, it was expected and not as bad as I thought it would be. Am up +.8 but salt causes water retention and it's a part of life. I will kick that .8 to the curb this week and more!

I LOVE GOLF! I sure wish I had taken up the sport many years ago. Had my 2nd lesson yesterday and the pro was very pleased. He saw a lot of improvement in me after just 2 weeks. We have 18 holes booked for this Sunday. It's a friend's b-day and that is what she wants to do and I have no problem with that. We've also entered a tournament for the 25th of this month. It's a fun one with all proceeds going to our local SPCA. Should be a good time.

Saturday Night

2008-05-10T20:29:00.004-04:00

Well. It was another great week at WI this past Thursday. Down another 2.4 pounds. Onederland is just around the corner! Here is pic of me taken at our Cribbage Banquet May 3rd 2008. It's been a lot of work, but I am finally starting to see myself as slimmer.

I went into Walmart today and I actually bought clothes without trying them on! No plus sizes, and it sure felt good. Tried them on when I got home and they fit me great. Well actually, I bought large polo style tops for golfing and I could actually have gotten medium! I will know for next time. But it sure did feel good just buying regualr clothes.

I have decided that when I reach lifetime, I am going to apply to be a Weight Watcher leader. I am very passionate about helping others and would be a honour to be able to help others achieve the same success that I have.

A Couple New Pics

2008-05-05T09:49:00.002-04:00

The 2 new pics to the right, were taken at my Cribbage League Banquet May 3/08. We're recieving the plaques for winning the captain & co-captain playoff as well as receiving the trophy for the team winning the Season's Champs! I am 92.8 pounds lighter here. The lighting in the hall did not do me any justice (I take a lousy pic anways LOL) and the person taking the pics was not familiar with my camera. I'll have some much better pics come June at our family reunion where we will be outside and the lighting will be much better. Hopefully by then I will be very close to reaching the 100 pounds lost mark.

Another Great Week!

2008-05-01T15:21:00.003-04:00

Here we are, the first of May already. Boy how time sure does fly!

WI this morning was great. Am down -2.8 pounds for a grand total of 92.8 pounds. Wooohooo! 7.2 pounds to get to 100 pounds lost and 31.2 pounds to get to my goal.

This past week has been great all around. Got in lots of exercise including my first golf lesson. I have found a sport I am really going to enjoy. We spent 1 3/4 hours at the driving range and also got in 9 holes of golf. Hopefully the weather will warm up somewhat and no rain and hope to get out a couple times this week and arrange for another lesson as well.

This Sat is our banquet for the Cribbage League I belong to. Our team took the season's champs. It is another eating hurdle but I am managing all the unknowns when it comes to eating a meal I have no idea how it is prepared and account for everything. Will make sure to get some new pics as well.

Wooohooo! Good WI

2008-04-24T11:41:00.002-04:00

Was a good WI this morning and I was down 1 pound. That brings me to another milestone of 90 pounds gone! Am sooooo happy.

I had 3 lunches and 2 dinners out this week and was able to lose, so for anyone reading this that struggles when eating anywhere but at home, it CAN be done. You have to eat wisely. Don't be afraid to ask how the food is prepared, choose healthier items when at all possible, get salad dressing on the side and ask for a doggie bag when they bring your meal and put half of it in before you even start. Check ahead online and see if the NI is available for the restaurant and you and figure out ahead of time what you will order. Most all places offer a salads but be careful of hidden calories, like crutons, bacon bits, chees etc.

Tomorrow is my first golfing lesson. I can hardly wait. I did go out to the driving range and also played 9 holes this past week and I absolutely loved it! I did get sunburnt a bit so gotta remember the sunscreen for tomorrow.

Well am off to take the dog for a walk.

HUMP DAY

2008-04-16T13:56:00.003-04:00

Good afternoon

With the lovely weather, I have been a bit busier than I have been. Just want to be outside in the sunshine, getting some fresh air.

Was to see the cardiologist this morning and he is very very proud of me (it has been 6 months since I saw him last). He said he has no reason to see me again, my choloesterol is great now and to keep up the fantastic work. I walked out of his office feeling very good about myself. I am his first patient that he has had, that is is on WW and he took down all info and he is recommending the program to his patients that need to lose weight. He is very impressed with it.

Well I did it. Went out on the weekend and bought a used set of golf clubs. Yes I am going to learn to golf! Now that is something I would not have even thought about 1 1/2 years ago. Still not sure how it work with my knees the way they are, but hey, I am not out to join the LPGA or anything, just some good exercise and fun. A friend is going to take a few lessons with me then we'll be hitting the links!

Tomorrow is WI and am sure hoping for a loss this week. The past month has been a bit of struggle, not program wise, but just the fact the my body doesn't seem to want to let go of any poundage! I have had a loss (1.6 over the past 4 weeks) but that is not as near as good as it has been. But I do know I am doing everything right and just need to keep plugging away at it.

Today I completed 10.3 km on my ex. bike and that puts me 604.7 km into my Trek Across Canada. It started out with quite few people doing it as well on the WW message boards but I am alone now. They gave up! It may take me many years to complete it but I determined to do it.

Sat. afternoon

2008-04-05T13:55:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone

Well I think winter is finally gone and the spring weather is slowly moving in. When all the snow banks are gone, I will be happy. It was very long, cold, lots of snow winter, much like the winters I remember as a child, but I can't enjoy it as I did all those years ago.

Had a great week and the scale was kind to me with a 1.8 pounds loss. I have stepped up the exercise bike a bit, getting in a couple more KM when I ride. I am still at the 2 miles mark with the WATP and doubt I will do much more than that at one time as the knees just can't handle it.

I hope to get in some different kind of exercise in the near future, I just have to get creative. A friend is going back to college to become a personal trainer and she said she would help me along so will look forward to that. I am hoping that possibly this spring, I will try and golf. I love the sport but don' t know if the knees will allow it so we shall see.

Hello Everyone

2008-03-27T16:23:00.003-04:00

It has been a while since I have posted anything here. I am still on track with my weight loss, just busy and haven't been writing anything.

This week's WI was a disappointment for me, being up +.6 and being so good over the Easter holiday (almost makes me wish I had indulged a bit in some Easter goodies) but I didn't and the scale still wants me heavier. Oh well. Hopefully next WI will be much better. I am getting so close to the 90 pounds lost mark and seems like my body just doesn't want to let any fat go! LMAO

We are gearing up for a move in the very near future. I am not looking forward to it and hopefully it will be the last time. I hate moving and it has been 10 years since the last one but this one is necessary. It will put me much closer to my parents so I will get to seem them more often. It will also put me back in the city where I attended high school and spent a great deal of time in my teens and 20's. A blast back to the past!!!!!!!!!!!!

Will try to me more diligent with my posting.

Hit the 80 Pounds Lost Mark!

2008-02-14T11:57:00.002-05:00

Woohoooo! Down 1.6 pounds this week for a total of 80.4 pounds gone. What a great milestone to reach on Valentine's Day. 43.6 pounds to go.

It's been a hard week. Lots of snow, freezing rain and very cold temps the latter part of last week and my SO has the flu. (yes we both had flu shots but they don't cover all the strains.) So none to say the least, I am pooped out. SO is diabetic and had a stroke 7 years ago, so it makes it much harder to recoup from flu.

I have to admit, my activity in form of real exercising dropped this week. Just too busy with other things and no time to get it in. Laundry call me so until next week..... have a great day! HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

Another Great WI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-31T11:31:00.000-05:00

Wow, I can finally see onederland creeping up. I have decided that I would like to see onederland by July 1st, which I think is a realistic mini goal. Making onderland will mean 100 pounds lost. My BMI is now in the overweight range and I am NO LONGER considered to be obese. That feels sooooooo good to say!

I had a NSV last night, I got into a size 38 jeans. I have saved 1 pair of jeans from when I started WW. They were a size 50! I plan on stepping into them and having my pic taken when I reach my goal. Probably with both legs in one leg of that size. How cool will that be!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am now walking 2 miles with the WATP DVD, still riding my exercise bike and working with free weights and my exercise bands. This routine of mixing it up is really working for me and I enjoy it!

Some new Pics

2008-01-24T14:22:00.000-05:00

Ok here we go. I absolutely, am not photogenic at all, but it was time for a new pic so you can see how far I have come on my journey thus far. Also is a pic of the flowers my SO got for me today for my success to date.

Today was my 52nd WI....Woooohoooooo!

2008-01-24T12:02:00.000-05:00

Well , 1 year done on my journey to my ideal weight. It is hard to believe that 52 WIs ago, I was 299 pounds. I met my mini goal of 75 pounds gone in 1 year plus 2 pounds extra! This is a huge milestone for me as my first time around this is where I quit WW (a 75 pound loss) after having surgery. I thought I could get the last 5 pounds off by myself. Well that never happening and the weight slowly crept back on plus.

Am I proud of myself? YOU BET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My new final goal is to real my goal weight of 175 pounds by my 2 year anniversary. That's 47 pounds for this year and I know I can do it! If I can do what I have accomplished to date, anyone can. I was the classic couch potato but not anymore.

Hope to get a new pic taken soon. I am forever the photographer but never the subject. I don't like my pic being taken. Probably because I still have a hard time seeing the slimmer me. Everyone is noticing but when I look at myself, I still don't see it. I see it in my clothes and the numbers on the scale but I guess it is just having that mental picture in my head for 40+ years, of a fat woman, that it is a hard thing to break. It will happen, I'm sure, but what a great day it is today.

I take things one day at a time. There are good and bad days, but it is all good each and every day because I am healthier everyday, every hour. Onederland....... here I come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Onwards and Downwards to Goal!

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

2008-01-01T19:30:00.000-05:00

Well, 2007 sure was life changing for me. Who would have thought that I'd be 70+ pounds lighter than I was last year at this time! Never would I have thought I would be exercising regularly or wearing size 40 jeans rather than a 50 and I'm not done yet!

2008 promises to be an even better year than 2007 was! Some things I want to accomplish this year:

1. A small mini goal of a total of 75 pounds lost by my WI the 24th of January. It will be 52 weeks of attending meetings, my one year anniversary!

2. Quitting smoking in 2008. I have thought about this throughout the year and didn't think I was near ready to attempt it. I go to see my doctor in March and I am going to talk to him about how he can help. He keeps telling when I am ready, to just tell him so I will be doing that. Just think of all the extra $$$ I'll have to buy new clothes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

3. Reaching my goal weight of 175 pounds by Dec 31, 2008. I have 53.4 pounds to go I think that is attainable.

4. Maintaining my weight when I do reach it and to NEVER gain it back!

So Happy New Year to Everyone who reads this and let's make 2008 a FANTASTIC Year!

Holiday Time

2007-12-27T13:54:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I have posted. Holidays have keep me busy. Although I was up +1 pound at WI this morning (TOM arrived Christmas Day) I was totally OP throughout and have been OP a total of 330 days and counting!

Reflecting back on 2007, what a year it has been! I am so happy I joined WW and it sure shows. 2008 will be an even better year and hopfully a year of reaching my goal by Dec 31, 2008.

I went from sedintary to moving my butt and exercising regularly, my BP has been fantastic over the past 4 or 5 months, I feel so good and I know I definitely healthier. I have dropped from a size 50 jeans to a size 40, from a 2 or 3xl top to a large or xl depending on the style... even my bra size has dropped. I can wear my ring that I have not had on in many many years.

I want to wish everyone a very happy rest of the hoilday season and a Very Safe, Healthy and Prosperous 2008!

Sharing my story so far........

2007-11-22T16:15:00.000-05:00

My Story to date:

I joined WW Feb 1, 2007 at my highest weight ever…. 299 pounds. I was a mess. I had knee replacement surgery in March of 2006 and I thought, this is my ticket to getting active again and losing weight. This is not my first time on WW. 5 years ago, I lost about 75 pounds and thought I could do the rest on my own. (Had about 5 or 10 pounds to get to goal) Slowly the pounds started coming back on.

Just when I started feeling good about things and ready to start losing, I had a very bad car accident and injured the knee I had gotten replaced. More depression settled in and I took comfort in food. I was sedentary due to the knees and I ate and ate and ate. I had no idea how much I actually weighed and when I walked into the door at the WW, I was very ashamed of myself and embarrassed.

What took me to walk in those doors? I wanted to see my 50th b-day (in 4 years) and knew that if I did not do something soon, I would probably be dead by my 47th. My BP was sky high, I couldn’t find any clothes to fit (it is very hard for a woman 6 feet tall to buy plus sized clothes that are also tall) and knew that soon, my doc would be telling me I was diabetic as well.

I have not looked back since. I found that I have a lot of willpower and determination. I have NEVER strayed off program once. I do not deprive myself of anything though there are some foods I will not even have like chicken wings and ribs. 3 wings is tease and I will not waste the points on them when I can have a wonderful chicken breast. Ribs are just so high in points, I won’t even go there. I do not eat very much beef anymore and I love a good steak and will treat myself to it occasionally. I only buy very lean cuts of pork and enjoy that as well as venison. I use Veggie ground round and ground turkey breast for many meals. I love pizza and make myself a personal pizza on a high fibre pita or a small wrap with part skim mozzarella cheese, turkey pepperoni, lots of veggies and store bought pizza sauce. I always try to mix things up with food so I never get bored. I did a lot of canning this past summer and am enjoying it.

I read labels ALL the time now. I rarely use salt. I follow the 8 healthy food guidelines, drink more than my share of water, take a multi-vitamin every day, take 2 tsp. of high potency Omega 3 fish oil every day, always try to get lots of protein and fibre in every day and at least 2 cups of skim milk. I try not to eat processed food but sometimes you have to. I go out to dinner and enjoy places like Red Lobster, Swiss Chalet and the Mandarin. About twice a month I will treat myself to a sub from Subway.

I have learned to say NO THANK YOU. Some people’s noses get out of joint occasionally. I explain to them that I am not purposely trying to offend them and explain my reason. Most people understand but there have been some that do not and personally, I don’t care if they understand or not. I have taken on this lifestyle for myself and only myself. Most importantly, is the JOURNALLING and I faithfully track EVERYTHING. I count ½ points, I rarely use any of my weekly flex points (but I do on occasion) and I don’t eat my activity points.

After about 1 month on the program I went out and bought an exercise bike and started to ride very slowly and easy. I am now working out with exercise bands every other day. I ride or walk (walking when weather and my knees permit) in the between days. I went out and bought a book that came highly recommended to me called “The Power of Your Subconscious Mind” by Dr. Joseph Murphy and I have read it twice now. The subconscious mind can be a powerful engine that most of us rarely use. I have so much self-confidence now. I have learned to love me.

My life journey will never be over but my journey to goal is a little over half way there and the story will continue …………………….

Another Successful WI

2007-11-22T13:58:00.000-05:00

I was down another 3 pounds bringing my total loss to date ....... 66.4 pounds! I am thrilled at my progress. Have 57.6 pounds to go to goal.

In the beginning I was so overwhelmed with the thought of 124 pounds to lose but now I know it is attainable. I have never strayed off the program... been OP 294 days now and healthy eating has just become a way of life now. I do my very best to get in some activity every day, be it walking, riding my exercise bike or toning with the exercise bands.

Will try to be more diligent about posting here. It is a busy time of year for us all and it is the Hoilday season that we need the support of friends and family more than ever to stay on track!

Another week, Another Loss!

2007-11-15T16:34:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted much lately. Things are going well with the weight loss. Am down another -.6 pounds bringing my total lost to 63.4 pounds!!!!!!!!!!!

Started slowly working with exercise bands. They are a great, inexpensive way to get in weight training and toning and lord knows, I have a lot of toning to do! LOL

Not much else happening. Even if I don't post, I always update my stats here every week. I still have not gotten a good picture to post. Hopefully soon!

Pumpkin I Carved

2007-11-01T06:22:00.000-04:00

Here is a pic of the pumpkin I carved this year. I was quite pleased with it. Had a few comments from some of the parents out with the kids. Took me about 3 hours to carve it. Not an easy task. I don't remember it being so tough to cut through the pumpkin when I was a kid! LOL Well main thing is it went over well!

Just need to vent. I am sooooooo angry.........

2007-10-25T16:36:00.000-04:00

.........I could spit nails!!!!! The motto of "No one is denied access to the Y because of inability to pay" is a complete crock!!!!!!!!!

Do you know that someone who is trying to get healthy should quit WW and disconnect internet, not make any long distance telephone calls, and get this....... only spend $125.00 a month for groceries so you can give that money to the Y. After my total expenses a month I have about 50 bucks a month left (and those total expenses do not include a hair cut, wear some clothes that fit me or money for gas etc., those are luxury items) I was denied any financial assistance because according to them, I do not need WW or my internet and therefore can can pay out the well over $500.00 a year to become a member there. All I want to do is work with some weights so I can tone up this loose skinned body and get healthier.

I came home in tears but one good thing.... before last Feb., I would have come home and pigged right out, today I came home, cried and had a cup of green tea. Thank you WW and everyone supporting me on this journey to a healthier life. You are the best! Thanks for listening.

Been A While

2007-10-25T13:31:00.000-04:00

It has been a few weeks since I have posted. Losses have been small the past couple of weeks, but any loss is a good loss and they add up quickly.

Most of my stress has been lifted with good results from the cardiologist. Just put my on cholesterol pills as a precautionary measure. It is not in the danger zone and the more weight I lose and the more exercise I get, it will only get better.

Still have not gotten a pic to post here. One of these days I will. I am going to see about joining the Y this afternoon. Hopefully things will be affordable and then let the workouts begin!!!!!!! Need to get tones up here big time! That's all for now.

Getting Close to Half Way!

2007-10-04T11:37:00.000-04:00

Well another good week at WI. Am down another 2.8 pounds for a total of 56 pounds. 6 more pounds to go to the half way mark.

Had a great NSV this week..... I am down another size in jeans. Into a 42 now! Woohooooo! I still have to get a pic taken of me. Will work on getting that done this weekend so you can see the difference instead of just hearing about it!

Have to go for a stress test this afternoon. Think it is a total waste of time but my new doctor is very very thorough. Will see how it goes!

Mid Week

2007-09-18T06:26:00.000-04:00

Sorry no new pictures yet..... have to get someone to take pics and have just been too busy, Will hopefully have a couple new ones this week sometime. The week has been going well, totally OP. All of a sudden a pair of jogging pants I have been wearing are falling off me! It was like one day they fit, the next they were too big! I really need to go out to a second hand store and find a few pairs of slacks or something to wear. I have 1 pair of jeans that actually fit me and that is it. With the cooler weather fast approaching, I am going to need something and just hate going out and paying good money for clothes that I know will be too big in the near future.

WOOOHOOOO Another Milestone Reached!

2007-09-14T07:07:00.001-04:00

Oh I am so Happy. This week at WI I lost 2.6 pounds and making it a grand total of 50.6 pounds. As promised, I will posting new pics of me which I will get my SO or friend to take this weekend.

All I can say to anyone reading is that if you are ready to lose weight, you have to want to do it for you and only you. It doesn't matter which weight loss program you choose or if you are doing it on your own, just remember to eat healthy by following the Canada Food Guide for eating, get in some activity, drink lots of water (at least 6 cups a day), journal your food intake faithfully and don't focus on the end result. It is a lifestyle change, not a diet so it's for life. FOCUS, FOCUS, FOCUS and you will succeed! Slow and Steady wins.

Stellar Week!

2007-08-30T12:51:00.001-04:00

Well I did much better at WI this week than I thought I would. Am down 3.2 pounds! Wooohooo! I will soon be entering a new decade and am 2.8 pounds away from the 50 pounds lost mark!
I also had an NSV this week..... I had kept a pair of Levi's that I have not been able to wear in years. I put them on a couple nights ago and they fit me perfect! Actually a little big in the butt, but I am not complaining.

So a new month starts Saturday. I want to lose 1/2 the total weight I want to lose by Christmas this year. Here's hoping it will be just that! 15 pounds to go for that 62 pound goal for Christmas. I think that is totally doable.

Another Good Week

2007-08-23T15:11:00.000-04:00

I have been pretty busy as of late helping a friend renovate her house and have been neglecting this blog.

WI was this morning and had another great week. Down another 1.4 pounds for a grand total of 44 pounds. I was hoping to make 50 pounds by LabourDay but it won't happen. So close though and I am very proud of myself. Had 3 NSV's this week (an NSV is a non-scale victory). #1 was about a month ago I went out and bought a new pair of jeans and a top. Well after 1 washing the top shrunk and it hung in the closet. I put it on this past week and it fit me again!!!!!!!!!!!! #2 is those jeans are big on me now. #3 was the 30+ Activity points I earned this week walking, painting my friend's house and started using some light free weights for upper body workout.

Well here's to another good week this week on and off the scales. I will have a new updated picture to post when I hit the 50 pounds lost mark!

MIA for a couple weeks

2007-08-16T16:05:00.000-04:00

I have been very busy these last few weeks helping my friend renovating her now house. So busy I forgot to update my blog but it's all done now! I am slowly but surely getting closer to the 50 pounds lost mark. This weeks WI brings me to 42.6 pounds lost to date. Woohooo!

Another Goal Met!

2007-07-26T18:36:00.000-04:00

Well I did it. I wanted to reach 40 pounds lost by the end of July and I did it! Another 1.2 pounds gone this week for a total of 40.4.

I am so proud of myself. Went and got my hair cut to celebrate. I know, it doesn't seem like much of a reward..... but a good reward to me non the less. I will reward myself with some shopping when I reach 50 pounds and I hope to see that by the end of September. I don't like to make my goals too far into the future. I find the mini goals make it so much easier than looking at the big picture.

Another Good Week

2007-07-19T20:30:00.000-04:00

It was another good week, totally OP, and down 2.2 for a total of 39.2 pounds. So close to the 40 pound mark, yet not quite there!

A friend just bought a house and we are going out to dinner at Red Lobster on Saturday. Meal is all planned and points figured out. I find eating in a restaurant doesn't have to be a challenge if I plan ahead. With Red Lobster, it is great as they list all the NI for their Lighthouse Menu online and I decide what I will have before we get there.

I get so much support from the people on the Weight Watchers message boards. Everyone there feels like family. Thank You!

Great WI this week

2007-07-05T20:38:00.000-04:00

I never bothered posting last week. Itwas very busy with a friend arriving from out west and also company from Ottawa. I stayed the same at WI.

WI this week was excellent. Am down 4 pounds and getting close to a new decade in weight. I am so proud of myself. Most of my activity this week has been in the form of walking and hope to get back on the bike again as soon as I get furniture changed around so I can get at my bike again. Have been OP for 154 days now. People at the WW meeting said it is really starting to show now for the amount I have lost. I am down 3 sizes in pants. Wooohoooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Reunion Day

2007-06-24T18:57:00.001-04:00

Today was our Family Reunion on my Dad's side.

What a wonderful time we had, the weather could not have been better. I did very very well, stayed totally within my points, only had 1 light beer, lots of water. The Kentucky Freud Chicken was a huge hit along with the potato & saurkraut salads. I splurged and had 1/4 cup of baked beans, had no desserts and feel really good for staying in control. Here is a pic of the gang.

Good week

2007-06-21T20:35:00.000-04:00

I had a very good week and WI. I am down another 2.4 lbs! Wooohooo! A loss after a night out with the girls from crib and resisted pizza, a BBQ for Father's Day and my b-day! My BMI was 41 when I started, it is now 36.

32 pounds total loss to date. I am really proud of myself to sticking to this. I am totally focused and feel so good about everything. This Sunday is our Family Reunion on my father's side. Have it all planned out. Am making Kentucky "Freud" Chicken from the ES&BM cookbook, a 2 point per serving (3/4c) potato salad from the Cooking Light Magazine, a 0 point saurkraut salad and watermelon for dessert. Taking lots of water and maybe a couple cans of diet pop or Crystal Light singles for the water.

I'm 46 today!

2007-06-18T13:55:00.000-04:00

Well today is my 46th b-day and am proud of myself that I readed my 10% goal before my b-day. I set mini goals for myself rather than look at the big picture and my next goal is 40 pounds gone total, by Labor Day. I think this goal is attainable.

I made through two parties this past weekend, the night with the cribbage team on Friday and didn't didn't touch the pizza and wings and then the BBQ yesterday for Father's Day and my B-day, staying totally on program throughout the weekend. I am very proud of myself.

This coming weekend is our family reunion. I am making Kentucky "Freud" Chicken from the ES&BM cookbook and a delicious sounding Potato Salad from the Cooking Light Magazine. Also bringing along lots of fresh cut veggies and some low fat hummis and lots of water! There is always so many goodies at the reunion, especially desserts, but I will prevail and stay away from them.

A little disappointed but was expecting it

2007-06-14T22:00:00.000-04:00

Well today I had my WI and was up 1 pound. I was expecting it with TOM coming next week but non the less, it is still disappointing. Got in 19 mins on my exercise bike today and burned 150 calories, added another 7.4K to my Trek.

Tomorrow evening my cribbage team is getting together at the SO's of my teammate that passed away 2 weeks ago. We are going to celebrate Faye's life. Am planning ahead. There will be veggie trays and fruit trays but they are ordering pizza and wings. I love them, but will not go there as I won't want to stop. Instead, I am getting a turkey breast sub from Subway (6", no cheese and one of the under 6gm of fat ones) and just have 1/2 of it. Will have crystal light for my water bottles and might have 1 glass of wine to toast Faye's life.

30+ Pounds Reached!

2007-06-08T09:15:00.000-04:00

Well another great WI for me. I am now over 30 pounds lost to date. 30.6 lbs. to be exact. Still a long way to go but it is coming off slowing and that is the way to do it.

I just wish I could really notice the loss myself. I can see it when I put on my clothes, but when I look in the mirror, I don't see it. I have had others come up to me telling me the weight loss was noticeable. I guess it's because I see myself everyday and let's face it, we are our own worst critics LOL.

I will have a pic taken this weekend and post it. Maybe seeing myself that way will make a difference.

I have been on program for 127 days now and have completed 414 k of my Trek Across Canada to date.

Been a Stressful Week

2007-06-02T09:50:00.000-04:00

Well this has been a very stressful week and still managed to stay OP and got to my first 10% goal. Total of 29 lbs lost. Wooohooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I got my key ring from our leader at the meeting. Plan on getting it engraved with the date and my 10% weight so I will always have a reminder.

So this week started off with my significant other ending up in the hospital with bradycardia (low heart rate). Thankfully they found out it was the blood pressure meds causing the problem and everything has been adjusted. Then my friend from my card team passed away on Wednesday after only a few weeks from being diagnosed with cancer. Faye will be missed a lot, but she is not in pain anymore and is at peace. Then this morning, another lifelong friend called and her mom passed away. Alma was a kind and gentle woman and I will miss her very much. I will be looking into having a tree planted in memory of each of them.

Successful WI again!

2007-05-24T13:15:00.000-04:00

I was down another .6 lbs this week. Oh so close to my 10% goal! I thought with my HUGE loss last week there would not be any movement on the scale this morning. Was I surprised!

Here is a poem this is so inspirational and true. Thought you'd enjoy it!

Don't Quit - W.W. Version

When you've eaten too much and you can't write it down,

And you feel like the biggest failure in town;

When you want to give up just because you gave in,

And forget all about being healthy and thin;

So What! You went over your points a bit;

It's your next move that counts...So don't you quit!

It's a moment of truth, It's an attitude change;

It's learning the skills to get back in your range;

It's telling yourself "You've done great up till now;

You can take on this challenge and beat it somehow.

"It's part of your journey toward reaching your goal;

You're still gonna make it, just stay in control."

To stumble and fall is not a disgrace

If you summon the will to get back in the race;

But, often the struggler's when losing their grip

Just throw in the towel and continue to slip,

And learn too late when the damage is done

That the race wasn't over and they still could of won.

Life-style change can be awkward and slow

But facing each challenge will help you to grow;

Success is failure turned inside out

The silver tint in the cloud of doubt.

When you're pushing to the brink, just refuse to submit;

If you bite it, you write it... But Don't you quit!

-- Author Unknown

WI #15...... What a Great Week!

2007-05-18T12:27:00.001-04:00

WOW. I was so totally surprised yesterday when I stepped on the scales at my meeting. Down 6.2 lbs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I still am thinking it was just a dream. I hit and went past my 25 lbs and got my charm to put on my 10% key ring which I will be getting in a week or two. When I get to my 10% I will get a new pic taken for a visual progress. I myself, cannot see the difference yet but am getting told by many others how my hard work showing and jeans are so baggy I can take them on and off without undoing them.

I am 327.9K into my cycling Trek Across Canada and am on HWY 3 in BC, north of the eastern end of Cathedral Provincial Park. Never in a million years did I ever think I would be undertaking a challenge like this one and am enjoying it very much.

I have lost 10 of the 20 pound challenge for Labor Day and have stayed totally on program for 106 days. It's the long weekend and do not have anything special planned, just playing it by ear.

Bad WI on Thursday

2007-05-12T10:53:00.000-04:00

Well, this past Thursday was the worst WI. I gained 2.4 pounds! How can someone possibly gain that much when I was totally OP for the week, got all my water, fruits/veggies/dairy and oils in and even earned 15 AP's for the week, and it's not TOM. I just don't understand and it is very frustrating. So I was very down on Thursday but did not cave in and go off the program.

It's another week, and hope that this week's WI will show a loss at the scales. I know it's just a number and possibly I lost inches that don't show on the scale.

I am very proud that yesterday was my 100th day OP. Woohoooo!!!!!!!!! Have not gone off program since the day I started and am very happy about that.

Another Good WI

2007-05-07T20:43:00.000-04:00

Well after not having any internet service from May 1st until the 6th, it's nice to be back online again. I was going with withdrawl LOL. Seems some now evicted tenants in the building had tapped into my cable line and when they did a midnight run on April 30th to avoid the sherrif, they cut my line. I don't know how anyone could have the balls to do something like that. Goes to show how so many kids today just have no respect for others.

I lost another 2.2 lbs. at my WI on May 4th bringing my total loss to 23 lbs. I am 6 pounds from my 10% goal! Woohooo! I will post a new pic at my 10% so the progress will be visible. I have stayed completely on program for 95 days now. I even was out to my cribbage banquet on the 5th and had absoluely no choice in what I ate and stayed within my points range. Eating healthy is so now a part of my daily life as well as getting in my exercise bike and have now added some low intesity stretching and crunches to my daily routine as well.

I have completed 267.4km of my cross Canada trek to date. I don't think I will ever get out of the mountains in BC. LMAO. I am enjoying riding everyday.

2nd 10 pound Goal Met!

2007-04-26T18:20:00.000-04:00

Woohooo! I made my 2nd 10 lb. goal today and have lost a total of 20.8 pounds. Can't believe it's already the end of April and I'm 3 months into this new lifestyle. I had a huge victory last evening when I went out for dinner with my teammates from Cribbage. We went to the Mandarin. I stayed totally on the program, had a wonderful healthy meal (no Chinese food at all) and came home satisfied and proud that I had the willpower to stay away from all the goodies there were on the buffet.

I started with a nice green salad with a grapefruit/ginger dressing, peel & eat shrimp, baked salmon, mashed potatoes and a small ear of corn. I also allowed myself 1 vodka and soda with a lime wedge to celebrate the team coming in first place for the season. That hurdle completed and conquered! Next hurdle, the banquet May 5th. I got into my dress slacks for the first time in over a year and have bought a new top for the banquet as well. Will take pics and post 1 next weekend.

Good Week

2007-04-21T16:21:00.000-04:00

Weigh-in 12 was fantastic! I lost 3 pounds and am 9.2 lbs from my first 10% goal. I got in 13 activity points this week and for me, that is a huge success. I am aiming for 14 activity points this week. I am 185.5 km into my Trek Across Canada as of this morning.

Spring has finally sprung here. What a beautiful day out there. So nice to have windows open and be able to go out with no coat. Not much else happening here. I just got in from grocery shopping and I think everyone was out getting things for BBQing tonight.

First Gain

2007-04-12T14:11:00.000-04:00

Well I had my first gain this week of .6 lbs. I was a bit disappointed as I was on program all week and never cheated once with an Easter goodie. But being sick with a bad cold, and the 14 hour fasting for blood tests didn't help. I'm sure my body was in shock not feeding it for all those hours. I was sooooooo hungry! I got in 4 less activity points as well. So I know what I need to do this week to get rid of the .6 of a pound and more! Onto a great week and WI for week 11!

Made It Through Easter

2007-04-10T22:34:00.000-04:00

Well I made it through the Easter weekend totally on program and felt so great, only to wake up sick on Monday morning with a nasty cold. Didn't get any exercise in yesterday and only 10 mins on my exercise bike today. I sure hope this cold breaks soon so I get back at it! Am managing to eat all my daily points, despite the fact I can't taste a thing! WI is Thursday morning and hope I am down again. So close to my second 10 lb goal.

Another Week, Another Loss

2007-04-05T13:25:00.000-04:00

Well I had my week 9 weigh in this morning. I am down another 2.2 lbs. for a grand total of 17.4 lbs! I am very proud of myself. It was a good week, stayed on program all week, got lots of water in and stepped up my activtiy. I am riding my exercise bike 16 mins. now at moderate intesity and I actually feel good when I get done. I am enjoying it! I usually watch TV while riding and it makes it goes by fast. I have completed 99km of my Trek Across Canada! (I have to ride yet today so that will add around another 6k or more)

Our meeting today was great as it usually is. We talked about Holiday time and eating out at a restaurant or at a family member's home. It can be a challenge and we need to make good, healthy choices, but not deny ourself that time out. I will be spending Easter Sunday with my parents and we're doing something different this year and having a BBQ instead of the standard Ham & Scalloped Potatoes. I am going to make my 0 point sauerkraut salad, and we're also going to have a nice tossed salad and I am going to slice some potatoes, brush them with olive oil mixed with spices and grill them as well. Should be a great dinner!

HAVE A HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!

Starting another New week

2007-03-30T10:23:00.000-04:00

I was so upset that I would not have a good weigh in on Thursday morning. I was pleasantly surprised that I had actually lost 1 pound! My scale at home is digital and brand new but still is not weighing me what the one does at the meetings, so it is now in storage. I get so stressed when it doesn't read a loss.

So I am now down 15.2 lbs. and a little over half way to my 10% goal. I would like to reach that by my birthday in June and will try hard to achieve it!

Not too much exciting happening right now. Will post more later on.

Just one of those nights

2007-03-26T02:27:00.000-04:00

Well here I am at 2:30am. I get nights like this, when I can't sleep but it is happening a bit more lately. So what better thing to do than post to my blog.

Last Thursday was my 7th weigh-in at Weight Watchers. I'm down 14.2 lbs so far. Have a very long way to go, but slow and steady wins the race. Some weeks have been better than others for amounts lost, but looking at the overall time, that is 2 pounds a week. I will post a new picture of me when I hit my 10% goal of 29 lbs.

I joined the Easter Sunday Challenge, to lose 5 pounds by April 8 (I joined 2 weeks ago). I thought for sure I could lose 5 pounds in 4 weeks but so far only 1.8 lbs. Regardless if I meet the challenge or not, I am staying on program, following the 8 healthy food guidlines, and getting all my water in every day. 2 Weeks ago, I bought an exercise bike and started riding 10 mins a day. This is a feat in itself as I have been basically sedintary for the last 2 years. Now I have decided to virtually (on my exercise bike) Trek across Canada. 7248 km from Vancouver BC to St. John's NL. As of Sunday morning, March 25th/07, I have 50.3 km completed. I am averaging between 4 & 4.8 km a day.

2007-03-25T21:23:00.000-04:00

Everyone seems to be Blogging these days. So I decided to set one up too. I am chronicling my weight loss journey, which began Feb. 1, 2007. This my second time around on Weight Watchers. I first joined in 2002, with a 100 pound goal in mind. I lost close to 100 lbs but I ended up having to have my thyroid removed and one thing led to another, not journaling, enjoying my newfound thinness, and before I knew it, I had put on every pound I lost, plus some.

Here is pic of me with my friend the summer of 2003. I was slim and trim, felt great and looked pretty good too!