Happy Halloween or Do These Pants Make My Butt Look A Pumpkin?

Greetings Friends~

We never get any trick or treaters at our house but each year I continue to purchase lots and lots of candy. Usually I start foraging through the mixture of Twix, Dots, mini Three Musketeers, etc. right about 7 pm on Halloween night. I take it slow at first because the last thing I want to do is run out of candy, on the off chance that our first goblin or super hero finally materializes. When 9 o'clock comes, the gloves are off. Mrs B should get a picture of me because I probably look like a chipmunk with my cheeks so full of goodies.

Funny, this year hasn't been the same. In fact, yesterday was the first time that I even thought about Halloween candy. That may not be the case for you if you are a sweet lover. Candy isn't something I crave but I sure like to devour it if I have a big tempting bowl of sugary goodness sneering at me and chanting, "Eat me, eat me".

So this year I think I will resist the temptation to purchase candy. If you are reading this between the hours of 7 to 9 pm, be aware that Mrs B is probably pretty miffed at me right now because I didn't buy any candy. In fact, I can hear her trying to convince me that I should have, at least, bought a bowlful of SUGAR FREE candy. I don't know Honey, do they make SUGAR FREE candy corn?

If you find yourself with a big tempting cauldron of sweets...back slowly away. If you have sweets leftover, hide them in the freezer until Monday and then take them to work. If you find sweets at work on Monday, once again...back slowly away.

Rest assured, if Superman appears at my doorstep tonight, he is probably leaving with either an apple, a banana or a crockpot. There won't be candy at Chet's house this year.

Here is a little Halloween treat for you.

You are strong enough to resist the candy bowl, if you back away One Step at a Time.

Disclaimer: No pumpkins were hurt in the development of this posting. For further information about the rampant unnecessary abuse of pumpkins during Halloween and Thanksgiving, please contact the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Gourds and Squash at info@PumpkinLover.com

Happy Trails!

Weekend Update or Girls (and Boys) Just Wanna Have Fun

Greetings Friends~

I am lucky enough to be able to afford a gym membership. As I get in better shape, I hope to be able to utilize all the options they have to offer, like the cycling class, kick boxing, latin dance aerobics, etc.

Here's the thing with me. I HATE most kinds of exercise. I don't know if this is because I was the chubby kid who always got picked last during P.E. or if it's the boredom that I experience when I do repetitive physical activity?

Regardless of the reason, there are two things that I do know concerning myself and exercise. The first is that it is essential in my struggle to overcome my morbid obesity. Second, I really like the kinds of physical activity that are FUN.

Racquetball is fun...competing against Susan...or Bruce. I don't play as well as I once did nor do I win as much. The thing is, I get a huge sense of accomplishment from returning that little blue ball when the odds were I wouldn't be able to. It is good plain fun...and...when I am having fun, the time flies.

Now things like the treadmill or the elliptical, not so fun (in MY opinion). But here is the thing. With the aid of my miniature Ipod Shuffle and a playlist that includes the Rocky theme, Dion, ZZ Top, The Beatles, Aerosmith and the Rolling Stones, it becomes fun...and the time flies.

This got me to thinking about exercise or activity that doesn't involve a health club because, let's face it, not everyone can afford it.

I know most of you Members and Followers and let me tell you, there isn't a person among us that isn't pretty smart, and resourceful when we need to be.

So, tonight while I was on the treadmill, I thought about exercise alternatives that are either fun, free or very darn cheap. Here's what I came up with.

~Take a walk along Budd Bay on a Saturday or Sunday morning. Maybe around Capitol Lake, if you are up to it. When you are done, skip proudly through the Farmer's Market. Maybe you can pick up a bunch of carrots from Colleen from Rose's Skok Valley Farm or Blueberries from my sister Rebecca from Black River Blues or just a cup of joe from the Heyday Cafe. Then, since you did so well walking, sit for a spell. Watch the entertainment on stage or maybe just observe the unique people that you see strolling by.

~Go to the Capital Mall now before the Christmas shopping rush is upon us. See how many laps of the Mall you can make. Keep track so the next time you can shoot for more. Even one lap or just one length of the Mall may be enough to get you going. When you are done, walk around through the stores and window shop for the fancy clothes you are going to buy when you get fit and slim. Don't be depressed that you might not be able to afford something. Be happy that someday you'll be slipping into that nice snazzy suit or a cute dress.

~Go to Priest Point Park (or any park will do) and go for a walk. If you don't like rain, take an umbrella. Enjoy the fall foliage. Pick up some maple leaves to take home and dry. Gather some fir or pine cones for a Christmas project. When you get in good enough shape, take the trail down to the bay and explore the beach. If you aren't in good enough shape yet, be happy that you one day will be.

~Get some of your friends together on the weekend and see if you can find a restaurant or bar that has live music. Maybe go to the Red Wind Casino Lounge. It is free and so is the soda, coffee and hot chocolate (not low cal though). I love to dance even though I look like an idiot doing it. What the heck? If we can laugh at ourselves as we shake like a bowlful of jelly then who cares if other people think we have escaped from Western State. (If you are going to start whining about the smoke, then find a bar with music. They are now smoke free). Get out there and shake your rear end like your life depends on it, because it does.

So now Travelers, it is your turn to suggest fun and inexpensive alternatives for exercise that is fun. Post your comments People. Let the world know your ideas.

One of these days, I want us Members and Followers to take over a place and dance till we drop. Don't worry, someone will be there that knows CPR, I'm sure.

Inspiration of the Day

Dance like nobody's watching; love like you've never been hurt. Sing like nobody's listening; live like it's heaven on earth. Mark Twain, 1835-1910, American Author and Humorist.

Recipe of the Day

Here is a hearty, healthy dish for you to warm yourself with after your walk.
http://www.recipezaar.com/Potato-Bacon-Soup-Weight-Watchers-Ww-288440

 My small steps for the weekend are; to eat healthy at the birthday party on Saturday and to get a workout in on Sunday. Don't forget that there is a gallon of blueberries riding on your weight loss this week so get out there and BE ACTIVE. The group's progress so far is proof that this works when you are taking it One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

"Get busy living, or get busy dying"

Greeting Friends~

Those closest to me know that the Shawshank Redemption, with Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, is one of my favorite movies. I am sure that I've watched this film at least 100 times. What is it that appeals to me so much about this movie? I think it's the amount of symbolism, which is scattered throughout the movie, and how it relates to my life.

Today's blog title was a line spoken by Tim Robbin's character, Andy Dufresne (Du-frane). While there are MANY lines that I truly love in the story, this is one of my favorites.

What is it about this line in particular that causes so much emotion in me?

"Get busy living, or get busy dying."  Seven simple words...short, sweet and to the point...kind of like carpe diem....seize the day. The idea appeals to me. Live or die. Make the choice.

For the first 27 years of my life... I was selfish... immature... irresponsible... I could go on but there's not enough space on this blog to list all of my transgressions, character flaws and bad behaviors so I'll leave it at that. I have many things to cherish during this time, such as a very patient, forgiving, supportive wife, parents who were understanding and non-judgmental, and children who proved they inherited the best of me. Suffice it to say, in all other things, I was a total putz.

Most of you didn't know me then and may have a hard time believing what I am telling you. Don't. I could use all of the profanities that I am known to utter...strung into one long colossal curse word...and it would not even come close to being an adequate adjective... to summarize what a lousy human being I was. You don't have to believe it but you should take my word for it.

"Get busy living, or get busy dying."  My life was at that point. I had to figure out how I wanted to live or if, by continuing my destructive behavior,  I wanted to die. Not die as in suicide...croak...the Big Finito... but die as in a slow downhill slide, from then, until the time of my death, never having done much to improve myself or the world.

So, I decided to get busy living and, for the majority of the last 25 years, that's what I've done. Sure, I've had my bad times mixed in, but all in all, I got busy living.

It is my desire that each of us choose to "get busy living". If you haven't, now is the time. If you need help, reach out. You are not in this alone. I promise that I will help you. You have my word.

Inspiration of the Day

Seek out that particular mental attribute which makes you feel most deeply and vitally alive, along with which comes the inner voice which says, "This is the real me," and when you have found that attitude, follow it. -William James, 1842-1910, American Psychologist, Professor, Author

Recipe of the Day

My apologies to all you broccoli haters. Here is a dish that should tickle your taste buds. I think I'll add mushrooms and olives.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Broccoli-Chicken-Dijon-south-Beach-Diet-120351

Let me leave you with one additional quote from the movie...

[In a letter] "Dear Red, If you're reading this, you've gotten out. And if you've come this far, maybe you're willing to come a little further. You remember the name of the town, don't you? I could use a good man to help me get my project on wheels. I'll keep an eye out for you and the chessboard ready. Remember, Red. Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies. I will be hoping that this letter finds you, and finds you well. Your friend, Andy".

Remember Travelers, "if you've come this far, maybe you're willing to come a little further. Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies." Please continue to travel with me on our journey, One Step at a Time.
 
I love this movie so much that I just can't resist one last quote!
 
"And, it's Fat Ass, by a nose!"
 
Happy Trails!

I'm a Loser...and proud of it!

Greetings Friends~

I'm not sure how many of you watch the Biggest Loser each week but I do.

I find most of it helpful...there are food segments like the one last night that showed healthy alternative foods...they made a turkey burger with all the fixin's and instead of a bun they used portabella mushrooms. It looked pretty appetizing.

I also enjoy watching the trainers put the contestants through their paces as well as seeing different kinds of exercises that I'm not familiar with...mostly the weight or strength training...since I only do cardio.

This week's episode had two events that I felt were significant.

The first was that Rudy reached a 100 pound loss in 7 weeks on the show which made him the all time quickest contestant to accomplish this gargantuan feat. Even more impressive than the actual loss was the idea that from Day 1, he set out to break that record.

The second event was very emotional...Abby, the contestant who had lost her husband, young daughter and newborn son in an auto accident, realized that everybody deserves a second chance at a healthy life. I was very moved by this part of the show, especially at the end when they wrote that this episode was in memory of her family. I was trying...quite unsuccessfully...not to cry like a baby.

If you would like to see a recap of the show, (I recommend at least watching the end), here is the link; http://www.nbc.com/the-biggest-loser/

Now, the part that I didn't like was all the sobbing and crying by the women on the Black team. I had to fast forward through the dramatics. I'd like to apologize but I won't. Hey, I'm a guy...save that gushy stuff for a chick flick. But, there was something that happened with this that you may not have caught. Each of the three women that were struggling, with their emotional demons, had a poor showing on the scale.

That, Travelers, is the crux of today's posting. Rudy set his goals and did each and every small and large step possible, in order to reach that. Other contestants were so wrapped up in all the emotional baggage they were trying to carry that they couldn't concentrate on their objective. Guess what? They weren't able to successfully drop the weight like they usually do.

Emotions can obviously play a very large part in our success. I know when I am feeling low or unhappy, I'm more likely to NOT workout...more likely to withdraw into the couch and television...more likely to grab that jar of peanut butter, a stick of butter and the Ritz or saltine crackers. Then watch out...it's Cracker-pa-looza time. I know when I am happy, feeling like I accomplished a baby step or two, proud that I took those (fill in the blank) stairs, that I function at a higher level.

I'm setting my goals high, taking small steps repeatedly to progress in the right direction and striving to maintain a positive upbeat attitude. With a state of mind like this, how can I possibly fail?

Look within yourself to discover how strong you really are. I think you will be surprised at what you find.

Inspiration of the Day

Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together. – Vincent Van Gogh, 1853-1890, Dutch Painter

Recipe of the Day

Fall days are a perfect time for soup! Here is a low calorie alternative.
http://www.recipezaar.com/Zero-Points-Soup-Weight-Watchers-189795


Shopping Tips

Albertson's has Bumble Bee Albacore tuna, 5 oz can, for $.88 each, Lean Cuisine Entrees for $1.88 each, green bell peppers for $.69 each and Roma tomatoes for $1.49 a pound.

Safeway has red seedless grapes for $1.28 a pound and boneless skinless frozen chicken tenders (3 pound bag) for $5.97.

Top Foods has, Wed-Saturday only, Reduced Fat Triscuit and Wheat Thins (don't eat the whole box in a sitting like me) for $1.59 and Jennie O Turkey Franks for $.89 a package. Other items that are on sale the the entire week are Hass avocados (med) for $.49 each, Yoplait yogurt (reg and light) 10 for $5 and cilantro (mmm...home made pico de gallo), radishes and green onions for $.49 each.

Ralph's Thriftway has Fuji apples for $.77 a pound, asparagus for $1.57 a pound, Yoplait yogurt (reg and light) 10 for $5, english cucumbers 2 for $3, local celery for $.58 each, and yellow onions 4 pounds for $1.

I think one of my small steps for this coming week is to take advantage of the produce on sale to make a nice hearty pot of either french onion or vegetable soup.

I know that I can set goals. I know that I can put out effort everyday to get closer to those goals. I know that I can feel good about myself if I chose to. All of these things ARE being accomplished because I am taking this One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

Week 5 Results

Greetings Friends~

Here are the results for Week 5. Congratulations (again) to Jeanine who is this week's Biggest Loser. I can feel her breathing down my neck. I don't mind though since competition is good for my soul (and waist line).

Jeanine tells me that she is doing a plan from Curves where she gets 1200 calories and 60 g carbs per day for the first 2 weeks. Starting this week, she gets to eat 1600 calories and 60 g carbs per day. She has not been exercising but hopes to start 30 minute workouts soon. This seems to be working with flying colors.



As you can see, quite a few people posted a zero this week. I'm not sure if it was a convergence of certain stars in the galaxy that resulted in a diet anomaly or if some members are starting to lose their excitement and motivation. Whatever the case, please let me know what I can do to help you begin moving again.

I am now 7 pounds from the goal I set for November 9th. I wanted a larger loss this week because Chet is Mr. Impatient but my body can only do it One Step at a Time so I am going to accept that four pounds for what it is...progress...in the right direction.

I started doing the stairs again yesterday.  I still hate them as much as before but this is another instance of forcing myself to do a small step that will benefit me over the length of my journey. I'm sure there are other things that I hate doing but, lately I have found that I am getting accustomed to new things, so my list is not as long. Jennifer knows that I often say it takes me 21 times doing something before it becomes a habit or a learned behavior. My "healthy" habits are increasing as my bad habits are decreasing.

Today's pictures signify a couple of ideas. Some members seemed to have encountered a road hazard on their trip to healthier living this week. Ask yourself if you are going to jump in, get your hands dirty and change that tire? Or, are you going to stand there and watch someone else do it. I don't think this is a matter of not knowing how. I believe that each and everyone of us has lost these same pounds, several times over.
It is not a matter of whether we can do it but a matter of wanting to do it...really, really, REALLY wanting to do it.

Ask yourself, am I the problem or am I the solution? We each have to search for that answer.

Inspiration of the Day

Achievement is largely the product of steadily raising one's levels of aspiration and expectation. - Jack Nicklaus, American Golfer

Recipe of the Day

Want an alternative to your favorite pasta salad? Here is one that is much lower in fat. Once you master this, vary the ingredients to add some variety to your meals.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Weight-Watchers-BLT-Pasta-Salad-154715

I urge you to remember that every journey such as ours is a long one. I promise, if you take it One Step at a Time, you will be able to look back and wonder how you got to your goal as fast as you did. Keep your chin up.

Blueberry Alert!       Blueberry Alert!      Blueberry Alert!

There is another gallon of wonderful frozen blueberries from Black River Blues up for grabs this week. The Biggest Loser this week will be enjoying those delicious berries as a reward for their hard work. Who is interested?

Happy Trails!

Why?...And ISO Dynamics

Greetings Friends~

There are lots of "why" questions about the world and myself that I can ponder. Why did I let myself get into this condition? Why do I make the wrong choices? Why do I need to change? Why did I decide to take control of my life NOW?

In my mind, I can come up with multiple explanations for each question. Some answers are accurate...some are not...some are emotional reasons...some are not. In brief, the answers (for me) are as follows.

I let myself get like this because I was raising a family, working a job, trying to juggle family and work...(but, the real reason is that I always felt I had more time).

I make the wrong choices because it is comforting, because it is easier than doing the right thing, because I am lazy, because I like to blame others and MOST of all, because it is a learned behavior.

I need to change because I am 52 years old, I'm scared that I might not have much time left, I want to be a grandfather and not just any grandfather but the kind that people remember forever, because I really have a lot left to contribute to my friends and family that I love and care about.

I decided to take control of my life now because of...well...I've had this concept in my head for about ten years worth of struggle...I decided to take control of my life now because of ISO Dynamics. I came up with this a LONG time ago and I believe that it is central to change in my life.

ISO Dynamics is simple...ISO means I'm Sick Of (fill in the blank). Having been an addict and abuser my whole life...food, alcohol, cigarettes, diet soda and the insidious nicotine gum, I know quite a bit about my weaknesses. The conclusion that finally hit me like a grand piano is that I don't ever decide to change (and actually carry it through) until I'm Sick Of being something.

I'm Sick Of wearing the same 4 shirts to work because they are the only ones that fit...and they don't sell 5X at my store.

I'm Sick Of having a whole closet full of nice clothes and suits that don't fit.

I'm Sick Of the way I look in that picture with Governor Gregoire...my stomach looking like I am 11 months pregnant...Gosh, there is a picture that my grandkids can be proud of.

I'm Sick Of watching the Biggest Loser season after season...wishing I could get those breaks...wishing I could have Jillian as my trainer...wishing I had the money and time off from work so I could do that.

And, most of all, I'm Sick Of sitting on the couch eating, sleeping, watching TV and at the end of the season of Biggest Loser, sick of them losing all that weight...even the ones who are at home like me...and I'm still FAT and unhappy.

I think you get my point. As they say at Alcoholic Anonymous, a drunk is not ready to help himself to change until he has hit his absolute bottom. When I think that there is no place to go except up. Then, and only then, will I decide that the cure is better than the continuing illness.

I know that there are a lot of us that are struggling right now. I wish that I could do it for you. I wish that I could be there to physically hold your hand and walk beside you. But I can't. I have hit my bottom. You have to find and recognize your own.

Only when you have decided "I'm Sick Of (fill in the blank)...and I mean really sick of it...will you be able to convince yourself that there is an easier way. Sure, it will be hard at first but let me tell you that it gets easier. It gets to be routine. It gets to be rewarding. So, for your own sake, be honest with yourself and get with the program. Your life, and mine, really does depend on it.

Inspiration of the Day

No one can cheat you out of ultimate success but yourself. - Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1803-1882, American Poet and Essayist

Shopping Tip of the Day

Fred Meyer has the following items on sale through next Saturday; Honeycrisp apples (these are delicious) for $1.29 a pound, whole chicken fryers for $.69 a pound, frozen chicken tenders (3 # bag) for $6.99, canned tomatoes or variety beans 2 for $1, asparagus for $1.68 a pound, hot house tomatoes $1.29 a pound and Lean Cuisine frozen entrees 6 for $10.

Recipe of the Day

Craving a french fry? Try this healthier alternative.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Easy-Low-Fat-Oven-Roasted-Peppered-Potato-Wedges-193370

I know that right now it seems like part of you Travelers took the route across the Rockies and things are slow while others are making faster progress. You've heard it all before. We didn't get this way over night. If you can remember that this is a lifetime journey, One Step at a Time, and you surrender yourself, I think you will find that things do get better. I wish you strength in your struggle and if I can do ANYTHING to make your burden lighter, please do not hesitate to ask.

Happy Trails!

This is My Brain...And This is My Brain on Potato Chips

Greetings Friends~

Here is an extra post that I hinted at yesterday. For those reading faithfuls, I hope this gets you through the weekend.

The bite out of that sign was probably me...before, when I had devoured all the carb loaded food in the house, I would move on to anything handy.

We all have our weaknesses when it comes to food. For me it is anything "starchy" such as bread, rolls, pizza or snacks like popcorn and chips. Some people use the term junk food but I don't think that's really a proper description of my cravings. I view junk food as things like chips or something fast from Ronald McDonald. Don't get me wrong, I do love that kind of food as well. It is accurate to say that I like ALL foods, especially junk and comfort foods.

At this point I may need to take several cold showers because I've just had a craving for a wonderfully squishy hot loaf of Albertson's french bread smothered in butter. SEE...I can't even write about it without experiencing a desire to "cheat" on my diet.

I have spent the last 30 plus days following a different system of eating. Healthy eating. Low carb eating. No junk food eating (well, there were those Ritz crackers that one night). No comfort food eating. Only healthy eating. And, do you know what? While I occasionally get a twinge of craving, I don't miss it. Even better, I have found some alternatives that make my mouth water too.

Yesterday, I had an excellent salad. I cooked a potful of lovely jumbo shrimp on Thursday night and Mrs. B was nice enough to peel them. Thanks! I added 15 of them to a standard salad and they really boosted it from standard to DELUXE. Earlier this week I added some leftover quarter sliced mushrooms to an omelet and it had the same result. In both instances, my mouth was watering just thinking about it.

Now, it could be that I am just so desperate for anything different that I'm easily satisfied. I don't think so. I think I am beginning to understand that there are other delicious options instead of the crap food of yesterday.

Most of all, I LOVE broccoli (Sorry Rene`). I don't mean broccoli smothered in ranch dressing. I mean steamed broccoli. I can eat it several nights in a row and still want more.

It just goes to show that with a little inspiration and a small amount of effort, that I can create food that is healthy, fun and satisfying. I look forward to many more cooking discoveries that I can get excited about and share with my fellow Travelers.

Inspiration of the Day

It doesn't matter if you try and try and try again, and fail. It does matter if you try and fail, and fail to try again. - Charles F. Kettering, 1876-1958, American Engineer and Inventor

Recipe of the Day

Here is an old fashioned favorite that is a wonderful alternative to the standard green dinner salad. http://www.recipezaar.com/Cucumber-Salad-51721

One day, one step, one exercise, one task. They all amount to a huge accomplishment when I do it One Step at a Time. Thanks to all of you for your support and encouragement. We can do this if we keep at it.

Happy Trails~

Weekend Update or I'm melting...I'm melting...

Greetings Friends~

This is your weekly reminder that you need to have your current weight to me (in whole numbers) no later than Monday evening to appear on Tuesday's Week 5 Results post. Remember, give me your current weight and NOT your pounds lost. I have a fancy machine that does the calculations and computations for me.

Wow, this weather is unbelievable. It rained so hard this morning, and it was so dark, that the street lights were still glowing at 8:30 am. This got me to thinking about how I behave (or react) when the weather is like this...which, I think we can all agree...will probably last until...hmm...I guess April 10, 2010.

I don't know if I have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which, in a nutshell, is a fancy term for getting depressed, having mood swings, etc., during and because of, the shorter days of winter. What I do know is that I go through some changes during this time of year. Mrs. B will tell you that these changes are not for the better. It is entirely possible that I spent most of my spare time last fall eating and then slept most of the winter. "Hey hey, Boo Boo, let's go steal a pick-a-nic basket".

It is going to be a BIG step for me this year to resist those temptations...that natural (or unnatural) desire to hunker down on the couch with a couple of REALLY big sandwiches followed by the long winters nap. How can I change this? I think the most successful tactic for me will be; to keep busy and keep exercising.

Keeping busy. I hate to say it...I really do...because we already have way too much stress in our lives..but...there are 62 days - 2 hours - 8 minutes...until Christmas. There should be plenty of projects for me to start NOW which will keep me active. I don't always have to wait until December 5th to start that list. Maybe I can start latch hooking that rug now.

If Christmas or the holidays aren't your thing, I'm sure there are lots of other activities that can keep you active. Look for a class at the local rec center, volunteer someplace, start a diary, come clean my gutters. Not you RU, you are banned from ladders for life.

Keep exercising. I'm fortunate that I have the gym available. I know that there are others that do not have that luxury. There are alternatives. Go to the mall. (No, that's not evil Chet talking...he's really not trying to send you to the mall during the Christmas season). Or, as Rene` suggested, go to a parking garage...it's nice and dry. Or, exercise in your own home. You can easily come up with a hundred ways to move your body at home. If you have a system that works for you, please post a comment so other Travelers can give it a try.

Inspiration of the Day

Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough. - Og Mandino, 1923-1996, American Motivational Author and Speaker

Recipe of the Day

The Man behind the curtain says, "pay no attention to the potato chip reference! http://www.recipezaar.com/Low-Calorie-Dip-for-Raw-Veggies-or-Potato-Chips-92719

My small steps for this weekend are to keep myself busy, workout and, maybe...just maybe...see it anyone notices an extra post over the weekend. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and that all your efforts are rewarded. I urge you to get off the couch or out of your chair, and do something to benefit your health this weekend, One Step at a Time.

I can't wait to get your results on Monday.

Happy Trails!

I would not join any club that would have someone like me for a member...Or...

Greetings Friends~

Readers have commented about my choice of pictures for the blog. Comments range from "awesome" to "weird" to " yeah, I didn't get it." While I like to think of myself as a reasonably articulate person, I find that writing on a daily basis can be challenging. So, I sometimes surf photo sites on the web for inspiration and subject ideas. At other times, I have a subject in mind and I try to find a photo that matches. I'm not always successful.

Such is the case with lots of things in my life...always has been...always will be. I think if I were successful on all my first attempts, life would be very boring. And, most of you that know me, friends and family, can attest to the fact that life is NEVER boring around me.

This blog and this group of friends, members and followers contributes significantly to my motivation...to my success. I find that I now think about my choices or options and the results that they carry with them. I feel a responsibility to do well so that I'm able to lead by example.

In the last month, these are a few of the changes in my life that are now becoming habits...and not a hum-drum habit like taking vitamins or brushing my teeth (each week)...habits that I actually am looking forward to.

I am eating breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. No skipping meals. I am drinking at least six 16 oz bottles of water a day. I am limiting my coffee intake to one cup a day. Monday through Friday, it's black. Saturday and Sunday, I indulge in a Starbuck's drip with half and half. If I go out to eat, I choose the healthiest item on the menu that fits my requirements of being low carb. I am slowly working myself off a regiment of drugs for diabetes and depression. I am planning my activities so they include exercise.

It is my hope that over the next four weeks that this list of habits continues to grow...as I continue to shrink.

My short term goal is to get to be a "2" by the time I leave for Las Vegas in 18 days...by the way..."2" means that I get into the 200's. I have 11 pounds to go. I will achieve this...I will...One Step at a Time.

Inspiration of the Day

Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. – Helen Keller, 1880-1968, American Blind/Deaf Author and Lecturer

Recipe of the Day

Lettuce wraps are my newest food find. Here is one example of a delicious alternative to using tortillas or low carb wraps.
http://www.recipezaar.com/Hoisin-Chicken-Lettuce-Wraps-130295

Remember, Travelers, this journey (and the blog) are not just a means for ME to be successful. As I have said in the past, your progress is extremely important to me also. Please, do one small (or large) step for yourself today in the road to recovery for your addiction. If you can't do it for yourself, do it for me. You will be glad that you did. All things are possible if we take it One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

Dazed and Confused

Greetings Friends~

I am on the diet wagon and feel as if I have just started another long bumpy journey westward. Although this isn't new territory for me, I am taking a different route this time, One Step at a Time.

There are some common sense things that you and I know about dieting. Obviously, eating candy, doughnuts, chips, dips, pizza, ice cream...(need I go on?)...are NOT part of a healthy plan to lose weight. If they were, I'd be all of 98 pounds. But, there are other food choices that are not so black and white.

No Fat, Low Fat, Sugar Free, Reduced Calorie, Low Carb, High Fiber, Sodium Free...the choices are really confusing and sometimes down right deceptive.

I have to constantly remind myself to read the labels on products while shopping so I can get the real picture of what is in something. For instance, those salad dressings that proclaim they are "low in fat" are often higher in sugar...and those that say they are "sugar free" often have a higher fat content. Couple this with the reality that food manufacturers add extra salt to everything and you have a recipe for diet disaster.

Speaking of which, I have given up salt. Hmm, let me re-phrase that. I have given up salting my foods. I haven't gotten to the point yet where I will eat only sodium free products but I know that by ignoring the salt shaker, I've reduced my sodium intake significantly.

My goal is that when Monday morning comes and I step on that scale, I want to be aware of the reason for my loss (or lack of). Did I eat something with a high sodium content last night that caused me to retain water? Did I neglect to drink enough water over the weekend? Did I enter my food into my FitDay food log and find that I ate way too many carbs? Did I recognize that eating those 3 avocados this weekend resulted in my fat intake being WAY out of whack?

I don't want to get on the scale, see the number and go "Huh?" I do want to have a good idea what effected my progress this week.

Do you know what caused your loss (or lack of) this week? If not, then start playing Sherlock Holmes and figure it out. "Elementary, my dear Watson." You will be glad that you did.

Inspiration of the Day

Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or lose. – Lyndon B. Johnson, 1908-1973, 36th President of the United States

Recipe of the Day

Try this as a side dish the next time you grill some chicken.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Very-Low-Fat-Black-Bean-And-Corn-Salad-52500

Shopping Tips

Pretty slim pickings this week for those of us looking for healthy buys at the grocery store. Safeway has the following on sale through next Tuesday; whole chicken for $.69 a pound, peeled carrots for $1 bag, 8 oz sliced mushrooms for $1, Del Monte Fruit Naturals for $1 each and pears for $1 pound.

Once again, I will suggest that members and followers post comments regarding the blog, your struggles, suggestions, whatever words of wisdom you have or even some new diet or low cal food that you tried and want others to know about it. We are all here because we know how hard this task is. Who knows better than ourselves the difficulties of achieving what we recently set out to do? This is another small step you can make in your efforts to get fit, One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

Week 4 Results

Greetings Friends~

Here are the results for week 4. Kudos to our newest member Jeanine who had a GREAT week.



As promised, below is a list of how members rank after the first month.



To date, the group has lost 119 pounds for a loss of 3.1%. A big round of applause to all!! If you are discouraged by your progress, now is the time, as we start the second month, to really apply yourself. I challenge you to bump me out of first place!

Today is my first day back to the gym after a weeks hiatus. I was leery of going because my knee didn't feel 100%. Funny how my mind tries to convince me NOT to do things that I know are beneficial. As I was riding home after work, I was thinking, "no one will blame you if you take another day off...after all, you are hurt." While that may be partially true, I know that this is evil Chet talking to me, and when Chet talks, no good will come of it.

So, I told Chet (who by now I hope you know is my evil inner self and not just another of my multiple personalities) to take a leap. Off I went to the gym and...it turned out okay...not great...but I made some progress with the pain. I did limit myself to a mile on the treadmill and passed up the notion of doing the elliptical and the rowing machine. Too much...too soon.

So I made my way to the jacuzzi where I stuck that sore knee directly in front of one of those water jets. I can't even describe how good that felt. I think by the time I finished with a sauna and a shower, my knees actually felt better than they had all day.

So it just goes to prove that when I follow through with my small step(s), things have a way of working out. I am looking forward to more of the same tomorrow.
Inspiration of the Day

The starting point of all achievement is desire. Keep this constantly in mind. Weak desire brings weak results, Just as a small amount of fire makes a small amount of heat. - Napoleon Hill

Recipe of the Day

Speaking of heat, here is a spicy recipe for you shrimp lovers that I hope you enjoy. Feel free to lighten up on the heat if you don't care for spicy foods.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Szechuan-Shrimp-25596


So now I've been at this for a month and been blogging for almost three weeks. I'm not sure who all reads this other than a few people I'm aware of, but I am enjoying myself...and I know the things that bring me pleasure on my journey to getting healthier, make this experience much easier.

Happy Trails!

Heading in the Right Direction

Greetings Friends~

This last week has been filled with challenges and opportunities.

My knees are still aching. The small step that I wanted to take this weekend, to get a workout in, didn't really materialize. I may have been able to push myself with a Last Chance workout but feared I would do more damage than good. Instead I concentrated on making sure that I made the correct choices in the foods that I ate.

My cousin got married on Saturday so I baked two huge pans of Mexican Tortilla casserole to take to the reception. It looked pretty tasty but I have no idea whether it was because I sure wasn't going to start down that rocky road of carb goodness. My aunt asked me to ride shotgun over the reception...kind of like the master of ceremony...so that there wouldn't be too much of a stampede to the buffet line.

I must say that attempting to eat healthy sure has changed some of my perceptions and behaviors. I had a good opportunity to watch as wedding guests streamed past the food, and it appeared to me as if the end of the world was certainly near. It had to be...people were taking SO much food that certainly they must have had plans to stockpile it in their suit coats or purses. It was really embarrassing, and at times, down right gross. There is nothing visually appealing about seeing that green lime jello with cottage cheese oozing across the fried chicken like gravy.

Then, after a brief moment of feeling superior, I realized that just four short weeks ago, I was one of the jello scheming hoarding masses. Intent on making sure that I got enough the first time through the line to sustain me until I could rush the line again.

It is nice to know that I am changing. I'm aware that I have a VERY long way to go but at least I am headed in the right direction. Soon I hope to be able to get back on the treadmill. I have to tell you that I do miss the activity...I do miss the stairs also...go figure.

But, I think I learned my lesson about trying too much too soon so now I'll continue to do small steps that are more realistic for me. My small step for tonight is to pack my gym bag so I can be ready for a light workout tomorrow.

I hope that you all had a good weekend. This is the start of our second month. Please ask yourself if you are satisfied with the effort that you have devoted to this so far. If you are, keep it up. If you aren't, there is no time like today to change.

Our member Randy took a fall this weekend off a ladder and hurt his knee. We are all waiting to see just how bad it is. Last I heard, it is broke. Not the ladder...the knee. You are in my thoughts RU. If you get well soon, I promise I'll bring you a bag of sugar free peppermint Lifesavers!

Shopping Tips

Fred Meyer has the following items on sale through next Saturday; Apples and pears, $.68 pound, Campbell's Chunky Soup, 10 for $10, medium avocados and bags of peeled carrots, 2 for $1, bone-in chicken breasts, $.97 a pound, and wild Alaskan silver salmon fillets, $4.99 a pound.

Inspiration of the Day

There is real magic in enthusiasm. It spells the difference between mediocrity and accomplishment. - Norman Vincent Peale

 Recipe of the Day
 
Here is a simple alternative to the standard steamed cauliflower -
http://www.recipezaar.com/Low-Fat-Cauliflower-with-Bacon-778

Tomorrow I will be posting the Week 4 Results as well as figures for how we have done over the last month. Keep up the hard work everyone. I know how tough it can be to be excited about depriving ourselves of the pleasure we get from food but remember that we are only doing this One Step at a Time. In a few months this will all seem like it was a piece of ... er...piece of cheese... hang in there Travelers.

Remember, if you see someone in your family or a co-worker or a friend struggling with their weight, or if it is just yourself, join us for this journey. I guarantee you'll enjoy the ride.

Happy Trails!

Weekend Update or Walking the Tight Rope

Greetings Friends~

This is your weekly reminder that you need to have your current weight to me (in whole numbers) no later than Monday evening to appear on Tuesday's Week 4 Results post.

I often feel as if I am walking through life on a tight rope and let me tell you, my balancing abilities are lousy. On top of that, I am terrified of heights and afraid of falling.

The last few days, that I have not been able to work out, have taken a toll on me mentally. I find that my motivation and determination are waning. Hence, the analogy of the tight rope. In my case, the tight rope signifies how hard it is for me to walk the straight and narrow (healthy) course. As I begin to lose, I often start questioning whether I can actually do this?...Will I fail?...And, if I do succeed, isn't it just a matter of time before I put it all on again anyway?

Thursday night I gave into these anxieties. I crept out of bed at midnight and, like a ninja attacking his enemy, I proceeded to pounce on (and devour) any food in sight. Walnuts, an apple, some leftover taco meat, half an avocado and a bowl full of Chex Mix. Damn, damn, damn, I was on a healthy ninja snack run until I gave into that last one.

The entire time that I was doing it, I knew I shouldn't. Even the healthy snacks aren't appropriate at midnight, especially since I have such a problem with nocturnal eating anyway. Too many carbs...too late at night.

This morning when I got up, I was sluggish and tired. I did NOT want to check my blood sugar because I knew that it was going to reflect the binge of the night before. Sure enough, I was at 120. While this is still lower than usual, it certainly was not as good as the 90-99 that I had been posting the rest of the week. In the past it has always been a danger signal when I don't want to check my count regularly. I'll start skipping that lovely poke in the morning and at night, so I can ignore the results of my foolishness...that is the road to 8.5 on the A1C chart...a road that I am very familiar with.

What to do?...What to do?...What to do? First, like I've said before, get back on the horse. Second, next time I feel the urge to creep out of bed...I'll stay put...turn on the light...get a drink of water...and read.

I think others can relate to my weakness. Today is a new day and I plan on doing much better today. I think part of the problem was that I neglected to set any small steps for myself so it was easier to succumb to temptation.

My small steps for the weekend will be to eat sensibly at my cousin's wedding tomorrow and to get in a light workout.

Inspiration of the Day

If you view all the things that happen to you, both good and bad, as opportunities, then you operate out of a higher level of consciousness. - Les Brown


Remember Travelers, this week is not over...what we do this weekend...right and wrong...will determine the outcome on the scale Monday morning. It is not too late to lose one more pound this weekend, One Step at a Time.
 
Happy Trails!

Can I please have something that tastes good?

Greetings Friends~

Since I now have some extra time over the next few days (see other post below), I thought I would throw a few food ideas your way.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Ww-Hawaiian-Turkey-Loaf-Weight-Watchers-6-Points-Per-Serving-124651

http://www.recipezaar.com/Sicilian-Style-Halibut-Weight-Watchers-3-Points-130269

http://www.recipezaar.com/Weight-Watchers-0-Point-Tortilla-Soup-152207

http://www.recipezaar.com/Weight-Watchers-Mexican-Chicken-Breasts-155442

http://www.recipezaar.com/Weight-Watchers-Coleslaw-158648

http://www.recipezaar.com/Weight-Watchers-Chicken-Salad-162386

These are but a few of the recipes that are available at http://www.recipezaar.com/

I found these by typing in "Weight Watchers" in the search field at Recipezaar. Other delicious dishes can be found by entering "Low Carb" or "Light" in the search field. There are also dessert recipes for those of you that have outdone yourself on the treadmill this week.

Happy Trails!

I'm Mad as Hell (at Myself)

Greetings Friends~

So here's the deal. I'm a new man. I'm rejuvenated. I am feeling better than I have felt in years. I am eating right and going to the gym. I am climbing stairs. Drum roll please...I AM SUPERMAN!!

Or at least I though I was. After four straight days of playing racquetball in my super competitive manner, I awoke yesterday with knees that hurt so bad I could hardly walk. Forget taking the stairs...forget any kind of exercise...I was having trouble with the simplest types of movement...it's hard to even raise or lower myself into a chair.

I am not Superman. I am an idiot. I know my knees are not the best but because I am feeling better I decided to give racquetball my best efforts...repeatedly.

I hobbled into the doctor's office yesterday for a very painful series of steroid shots in each knee. And now, I am not allowed to do any type of exercising until at least Saturday.

I'm mad a hell at myself because I certainly knew better. It's not like I haven't been through this before. My brain was telling my knees to "buck up" and "push through it". Stupid, stupid, stupid.

I think that the moral of this story is that it is possible for me to do the wrong thing, even when I have the best intentions. I will now let the medicine do its' job, I'll get better, and this time, I'll ease back into it. Maybe play one day and then give my knees a couple of days to recuperate before I try it again. I'll keep you posted.

On another note, I also had an eye exam yesterday. Because of the diabetes, it is important that I have regular check ups. Everything was excellent, probably due to the decreased blood sugar levels. During the appointment I had an in-depth conversation with the doctor about diabetes and its' effect on the eyes. One thing that he said really stood out. He said he has seen a significant increase, in patients with eyes problems, that are the result of Type II diabetes. More shocking than that is that there is also a significant increase in patients that are in their thirties or younger who are developing the disease.

Please encourage anyone you know that may be at risk because of their obesity, to do something about it.

Inspiration of the Day

I wanted to change the world. But I have found that the only thing one can be sure of changing is oneself. - Aldous Huxley

Keep up with your good work Travelers and take it One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

Where does the time go?

Greetings Friends~

We have now gone out of state for our newest member, Jeanine, who lives in Oregon. A rousing welcome for taking that step towards better living. This group is never too crowded to make room for others so spread the word. It's my mission to make the world healthier one person at a time -- One Step at a Time.

I've been at this for three weeks now and time is passing faster than I anticipated. It seems like only yesterday that I gathered three other people together to provide support to live healthier. Now we are 15 strong individuals banding together...and that figure is even larger when multiplied by friends and loved ones who are supporting our efforts. Congratulations to ALL!

Time is a crucial factor in my success. If I do this One Step at a Time, those days add up. The small progress that I make each day adds up to much more when I look at it each Monday. For myself, I try to think about my challenges as they relate to today only. All I have to do is today. Tomorrow I can concentrate on tomorrow. No sourdough rolls today. No pizza today. No alcohol today (the reason, I tend to skip meals when I drink so I get filled with empty calories and then become ravenous when I finally get around to eating that next meal). No junk food today. I will _________ (fill in activity such as walk, workout, take the stairs) today. I will eat sensibly today. I could go on forever but I think you get the point.

I won't do the negative things AND I will do the positive things, TODAY.

So, what should I do if I can't keep that commitment? If I "sneak" that piece of pizza at Costco when Mrs. B isn't there? Hmmm...I think I need to admit my mistake...admit my moment of weakness...even if it is only to myself. Then I need to get back on the proverbial horse...or in the case of this food addict...that may be "get back on the wagon". Either way, there is no sense beating myself up over it.

On the other hand, I think it is important that I don't slip...day...after...day, because those setbacks add up just as quickly.

Finally, I must keep pointing out how much easier my life has gotten by pre-planning and preparing my foods. This has reduced the amount of stress and anxiety that I am experiencing each morning. I no longer scurry around like a rat trying to leave a sinking ship. Last night I prepared food for today during the commercials of Biggest Loser. So what if I miss all the Viagra commercials. Life goes on.

Inspiration of the Day

Experience shows that success is due less to ability than to zeal. The winner is he who gives himself to his work, body and soul. - Charles Buxton

Shopping Tips
 
Safeway has Gala apples for $.58 pound, broccoli crowns for $.79 pound, Cheerios for $1.67 and Eating Right entrees 5 for $10. Also, Saturday and Sunday only, they have asparagus for $1.49 pound (use the recipe from yesterday for Oven Roasted Asparagus!)
 
Top Foods has Lean Cuisine entrees for $1.99 each, Fresh Express Salad Kits for $2 each, Turkey bacon for $2 and Campbell's Select Harvest soup (a quick, nutricious lunch) 2 for $3.

Take the time today to do something that makes you feel good. The health of our spirit is just as important as that of the body. Keep on doing it One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

Week 3 Results

Greetings Friends~

Here are the eagerly awaited results for last week. As you can see, we are still moving in the right direction.



Kudos to this week's Biggest Loser, Rebecca, who joined last week and is definitely in this for real. (By the way, she's my cute, much younger, sister). Congratulations to our 2nd place finisher Ken who is the winner of 5 pounds of frozen Black River Blues blueberries.

Today I'd like to touch on eating right.

I'm obviously not too smart when it comes to making food choices...well, maybe the choices have been okay, in some ways, but the quantities are obscene. Anyone that has seen me tear through the lunch buffet at The Rock can attest to that. I lovingly refer to the aftermath as my pizza/olive coma. The Rock manager calls my visit Black Tuesday.

Recently I rediscovered an aid to assist me in learning about my eating habits. You should check it out. It is called FitDay. I love it because; IT'S FREE, you can track your food intake, daily calorie burn and it will add in any activity you tell it. Then it gives you a total for the day. The website is http://www.fitday.com/

Why do I think FitDay, or other programs like it, are important?   Because I am disappointed in my loss for this week and knowing that I didn't cheat made me wonder why the result was a low number. Yes, I am well aware that patience isn't one of my strong points. But since I am extremely careful about what I am eating...working out everyday...and still climbing those dreaded stairs...I really thought I could do better. Then as I was working out last night, I wondered what my calorie/food intake was for today. I try to shoot for 1200 to 1500 calories with limited carbs (20) a day.

When I got home, I logged in and sure enough, I am averaging around 1000 calories the last few days. In my efforts to eat less, I have dropped below what I should. This isn't good. The body loses muscle and it goes into starvation mode. When that happens, weight loss slows significantly.

By tracking my food intake, I can better balance the mix of fats, carbs and protein as well as my caloric intake. I plan on eating my regular breakfast, have a snack at 10, eat my shrimp salad for lunch, have a snack at 3, and finish with dinner (after some exercise). This should place me in the correct range.

So, if you are interested in seeing how the food you eat adds up over the course of the day, check out the website or do a Google search for other alternatives. There are quite a few free sites out there. It can be a VERY eye opening experience.

Inspiration of the Day

Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. – John F. Kennedy, 1917-1963, 35th President of the United States

Lighter Recipes

Many easy and tasty recipes can be found at http://www.recipezaar.com/
Here is one for Oven Roasted Asparagus that I am hoping to try very soon; http://www.recipezaar.com/Roasted-Asparagus-50847

Please take the time this week to drink plenty of water, pre-plan and prepare your meals and get active. It is important that we take things One Step at a Time.

Also, Jon is wondering if there is any interest in a walking group that would meet weekly to go for a walk around Capitol Lake. Please post your thoughts and comments.

Happy Trails!

Me and My Shadow(s)

Greetings Friends~

Kudos to all those that took the time recently to sign up in the Followers section as well as those that posted a picture. It is greatly appreciated.

I hope that everyone had a great weekend. As I said on the Friday post, I wanted to do several small steps for myself this weekend and I accomplished that. I suppose that I am the kind of person that requires some type of motivation...(usually nothing less than a cattle prod is successful)...but in this case, just the fact that I publicly said I was going to do those steps significantly increased my desire and drive to get them done.

Dinner Friday night at Budd Bay was excellent. I was able to indulge a little bit while still maintaining an overall goal of making healthy choices. I had one cocktail...thought about another but one was the limit that I had set for myself so I stuck to that. I bypassed the wonderful sour dough roll with butter...that was tough. I am a bread junkie. But once I said "No, thanks", the moment passed and I didn't really give it another thought. The server helped by offering advice and I asked questions (just like they said on Biggest Loser) about the manner of cooking. I ended up with a mixed grill platter of salmon, some other kind of fish, shrimp and what had to be the best scallops I have ever had. This was accompanied by steamed green beans with no butter. At first I was alarmed that the amount of food was too little. As I started with my dinner salad and moved onto the entree, eating slowly, I discovered that I was quite satisfied by the reduced portions. I plurged with two cups of coffee for dessert.

Saturday we went to the movies. Mrs. B. smuggled in a sliced apple and a bottle of water. We were both amazed at the difference in our experience without popcorn. We usually polish off the first tub during the 20 minutes prior to the movie starting. It was kind of boring sitting there and not stuffing my face but I think I'll get used to it. As soon as I figure out healthy alternatives, I'll join in the smuggling operation.

I also worked out both days with several competitive games of racquetball followed by some light walking on the treadmill. I know that I could have done more but at this point my body is still screaming "ouch" frequently so I have to take small steps in this area as well.

You may be asking yourself, "what is his @!## point today?"

The point is...I set my step(s) small and did everything I could, to stick with it. Even though this wasn't as pleasurable as it normally would be, because I didn't get to eat that huge bowl of clam chowder or buttered popcorn that I love so dearly, the end result was just as good...but different...and right now, different is what I need.

This is all about desiring little changes which when all added together will equal an accomplishment that I didn't think was possible.

This is also about telling people that I am going to do (or not do) something. When I do that, I can feel each and every one of you right behind me. If I get my choice of who I'm accountable to, it is this group...my friends...my family...and myself. And, I don't want to disappoint anyone.

We are each other's shadows. I know you are watching me...and I am watching you...and our families are watching us. You should ask yourself, are you making the right choices? Are you holding yourself accountable for your decisions? Are you doing ALL that you can do?

Finally, my biggest JOY today is that a loved one who was bordering on being at dangerous Type II diabetes levels has now reduced their A1C count below 7 so the doctor is NOT going to prescribe medications. Just another example that this disease can be controlled thru diet, exercise and healthy choices.

Shopping Tips

Fred Meyer has the following items on sale Sunday thru next Saturday. Make sure to pick up an ad on the way into the store or at Customer Service so you can take advantage of coupons and other great deals.
Half Gal. FM milk or orange juice $.88 each, FM canned veggies 3 for $1, Oranges $.78 pound, Green/Red/Black grapes $.99 pound, Peppers in assorted colors $.98 each, organic apples in several varieties for $.98 pound and oven roasted sliced turkey in the deli section for $3.99 pound.

Inspiration of the Day

Without ambition one starts nothing. Without work one finishes nothing. The prize will not be sent to you. You have to win it. – Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1803-1882, American Poet, Essayist

For most of us, we are beginning Week 4. By next week we will have been doing this for almost a month. On next week's results I am going to post what the total weight loss is so far for the group as a whole. Ask yourself, "Am I satisfied with my efforts so far?"
 
One Step at a Time will get me someplace but I must be willing to take that first, second, third, etc. step.
 
Happy Trails!

Weekend Update or Am I Heading in the Right Direction?

Greeting Friends~

This is your weekly reminder that you need to have your current weight to me (in whole numbers) no later than Monday evening to appear on Tuesday's Week 3 Results post.

Second, I know that there are LOTS of people viewing the blog as evidenced by the counter and our Member participation seems to be growing daily. PLEASE take the time to read the Follower instructions to the left and sign up as a Follower. I can't force you to do it but it sure would be appreciated. Every Member should take the time to sign up, for sure!

On to the business at hand, Travelers.

The weekend is quickly approaching. I can't begin to tell you how much I enjoy 5:01 pm on a Friday. I'm like a kid on the last day of school...every Friday...bursting out those big glass doors yelling and screaming with the rest of the cubicle and office dwellers. Woohoo...all that free time to get things done, to go places, to do whatever...whenever...I want.

This used to be much easier because there were no restrictions...no limits...that I imposed on myself. Heck, I love food and don't really ENJOY much in the way of activity (read exercise). And judging by this 300+ pound frame that I am carrying around, this plan obviously was HUGELY successful!

But now that I am attempting, and succeeding, in making changes, things are not as routine as they used to be. Or maybe they are but it is the "healthy active" lifestyle which is such unfamiliar territory. It is easy for me to lose my direction or to just stall out.

Case in point, I love to go to the movies. But, the enjoyment is probably 50% about the movie and 50% about eating 2 very large tubs of buttered popcorn (and the Jujyfruits which I so deviously smuggled in). So now I can't seem to get excited about going to the movies.

I love to go out to dinner. Any kind of food that is fried...or better yet...deep fried...is always on my radar. Now I am eating healthy which really rules out a lot of what I would consider ordering in the past. So now I can't seem to get excited about going out to dinner.

Right about now I can picture you composing your comment to me about how I should be thankful for my choices, be proud of the changes, be resolute in staying the course. Yada, yada, yada. Save yourself the effort (although a comment from most of you would be a welcome surprise). Poppits, I know all the reasons why I should do "the right thing." The problem is that I can't always get enthused about doing "the right thing".

Do you ever feel this way? If so, let me know that I'm not alone and what you do to overcome that feeling.

Inspiration of the Day

Good ideas are not adopted automatically. They must be driven into practice with courageous patience. - Hyman Rickover, 1900-1986

My small steps for this weekend are to go out for a healthy dinner, sit thru a "popcorn-free" movie and to workout on Saturday and Sunday, bad knees willing.
 
I hope you all have a great weekend. Be strong, vigilant and active! You are my inspiration.
 
Remember, our journey has just begun and we CAN do this One Step at a Time.
 
Happy Trails!