Out With The Old and In With The New

Greeting Friends~

It is the very last day of 2009. Out with the old and in with the new. Another opportunity in life is about to begin. A New Year with new possibilities.

There is always something about the New Year that appeals to me. maybe it's because it is a type of holiday or time that is different than Valentine's Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving or Christmas. It's like I am a little kid again and I can be anything I want. Remember the times when we were young and dreamed about being firemen, nurses, astronauts, spies, movie stars or doctors? The New Year is my opportunity to re-live that.

I think about all the things that can be this year. I can be thinner. I can be healthier. I can fill all the holes in the driveway. I can see old friends. I can travel. I can do more for others. I can plant a garden. The possibilities are endless.

Notice that I said, "I can" and not "I will." Right now I know I CAN do them but I need to convince myself...sell myself...invest myself...in the idea that I WILL do them.

Resolutions, which are really only lists of what is possible, are fun as long as they are realistic. I have several for 2010. I will not bore you with my list...Chet LOVES lists...Chet makes lists of the lists he wants to make.

Suffice it to say that all of my resolutions are things that will make my life, and the lives of others, better and happier.

I hope that each and everyone of you have a Happy New Year.

Inspiration of the Day

In 1966, Andy Dufresne escaped from Shawshank prison. All they found of him was a muddy set of prison clothes, a bar of soap, and an old rock hammer, damn near worn down to the nub. I used to think it would take six-hundred years to tunnel under the wall with it. Old Andy did it in less than twenty. Oh, Andy loved geology. I guess it appealed to his meticulous nature. An ice age here, million years of mountain building there. Geology is the study of pressure and time. That's all it takes really, pressure, and time. That, and a big god-damned poster. Like I said, in prison a man will do anything to keep his mind occupied. It turns out Andy's favorite hobby was totin' his wall through the exercise yard, a handful at a time. I guess after Tommy was killed, he decided he had been here just about long enough. Andy did like he was told, buffed those shoes to a high mirror shine. The guard simply didn't notice. Neither did I... I mean, seriously, how often do you really look at a mans shoes? Andy crawled to freedom through five hundred yards of shit smelling foulness I can't even imagine, or maybe I just don't want to. Five hundred yards... that's the length of five football fields, just shy of half a mile. -- Ellis Boyd "Red" Redding, Prisoner at Shawshank from 1927 - 1967.

 Recipe of the Day

Here is a list of the Top 100 recipes for 2009 on Recipezaar. Most are high in calories and other bad stuff but maybe you might find a way to make a lower cal version (and share it with us, through the comments, thereby getting another entry into the contest). http://www.recipezaar.com/sitenews/post.php?pid=1062

My small step for today is to eat reasonably tonight from the many h’orderves that I prepare.

I want to thank everyone for taking part in our 2009 journey and I hope to see you all (and more) in the New Year!

Happy Trails!

Make The Most of Your Time

Greetings Friends~

I live in an age where it is easy to get distracted. Each generation has their own distractions. Our great grand parents and grand parents had the radio. We, our parents and ourselves, had the television. Our children have computers, video games, cell phones for texting, Facebook and MySpace, and much more.

I am often drawn in, with ease, to spending countless hours in front of the television or computer, doing nothing of value other than being a 52 year old man who is babysat by a box. While there are times that this is acceptable, there are largely other stretches of time that it is not.

Part of my obesity problem is because I amuse myself endlessly with electronic distractions. I am fond of saying that I hate television, that it is really a waste of time, that I will never get these hours back, that it is a direct cause of where we are at today as a society. In truth, I am as addicted and hypnotized as the rest of society.

When I am watching television or surfing the net, I am NOT doing the other things that I should be. I'm not getting ready for tomorrow AND, I am usually eating mindlessly, hand in the bag or bowl, with my eyes glazed over.

Here is what I would like to challenge each of us to do. Get our responsibilities done first and then, and only then; play with the magic glowing box. If that doesn't jive with the time that our "favorite" show is on, well, just record it for later.

Take some "me" time after you have packed your lunch for tomorrow, after you have packed your gym bag or planned your walk, and then surf the net. But this time, surf for tools, hints and ideas that are going to assist each of you in your journey. Have you ever looked at what is available to us Chubsters in the way of information about dieting? There are tons.

MSN has a whole Health and Fitness section. I love to occasionally check out the Weight Loss section where I find "before" and "after" pictures as well as how each person lost the weight. There is plenty of inspiration to be discovered in there journey.

AOL, Yahoo, Google and many others, have the same type of content and resources. Why do you think that is? Because such a large part of our society is over weight and desperately seeking answers and inspiration.

Give it a try. You might find yourself entertained in a positive helpful way and discover that ONE thing that will help you lose some weight.

Inspiration of the Day

Do not anticipate trouble, or worry about what may never happen. Keep in the sunlight. - Benjamin Franklin, 1706-1790

Recipe of the Day

Here is another appetizer for your New Year's Eve menu. If you use light thousand island dressing, you can save some calories. http://www.recipezaar.com/Stuffed-Reuben-Mushrooms-347783

Shopping Tips

Safeway has the following items on sale this week; Dungeness crab for $3.47 a pound, Fuji apples for $.98 a pound, large avocados for $.88 each, zucchini squash for $.99 a pound and ground turkey buy one get one free so your two 20 oz packages works out to $3.50 each. (I am going to try the zucchini and turkey in this week's lasagna recipe).

QFC has Alaskan Coho salmon fillets for $6.99 a pound, 31-40 ct frozen raw shrimp for $3.99 a pound and Kroger peanut butter for $1.29 each.

Albertson's has assorted Lean Cuisine frozen entrees for $1.67 each, fresh green beans for $1.49 a pound, Del Monte Fruit Natural cups for $1 each, assorted pears for $1.29 a pound and Special K cereal, granola and bars for $2.49 each (buy 4 and get the 5th one for free).

As I mentioned yesterday, we are going to have another contest that is running simultaneously with our weight loss. Here is how it will work.

Beginning on January 1, 2010, each member and follower that makes a comment on that day's post will receive an entry into a drawing to be held at the Finale party in May. You are allowed one entry per post. I will add up the comments at the end of Part 2 and all tickets will go into my big old black top hat. The name (or number) that is drawn will entitle the winner to a $50 gift certificate to a store or restaurant of their choice OR you can have the cash. You do not need to be present to win. The more times you make a daily comment, the higher your odds of winning. If you are not currently a follower, there are directions on the left on how to sign up. If you need assistance figuring out the comment part, drop me an email or give me a call. You can comment about anything (within reason), leave diet and exercise tips, or just provide a word of wisdom.

Don't forget, as we close in on the prospect of a fresh slate in the New Year, that this journey is about more than myself. I know that there are compadres out that that want to shed pounds and be a mere shadow of their current self. Sometimes it is for health issues and sometimes it is for something as simple as looking good on vacation or at a class reunion. The reasons don't matter. What is important is that you can make this long journey by taking little bitty steps and soon you will be on your way. Do it for you, do it for me, do it One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

Week 2 Results

Greetings Friends~

Here are the results for last week. As you can see, there are quite a few people who are waiting until the New Year to begin. That's okay with me. I have a few pounds to get rid of anyway so I am thankful that I don't have many others getting a head start on me for the moolah.



This week's Biggest Loser is Rebecca. Congrats! I am very impressed with your self control and dedication. You are an inspiration.

I spent most of yesterday evening trying to get my diet and exercise program back on track. There is more to this than meets the eye. I find that lots of things that effect my routine. One example is the condition of the household. If things are disorganized...it the dishes are dirty...if the clothes need washing...if my gym bag isn't packed...etc., then it makes things just that much more difficult because I am disorganized. That is why I am constantly striving for a well organized household. Mrs B spent time washing clothes and I cleaned up the kitchen.

Today it's back to our regular schedule of workouts at the gym. I am really going to attempt to make progress this week (in the correct direction). It seems like it's been forever since I've recorded a loss. I can't complain about my overall progress but it is pretty important that I show myself that I am still able to lose and that I haven't reached the end.

The new season of Biggest Loser premiers next Tuesday. It would be great to post a loss. Another season of inspiration for me. If you missed the fall season, you can watch them on the internet. I can't wait for it to begin. I think I'll take a progress picture of myself so I can look back on it in May and marvel at my change.

Since New Year's Day is this Friday, I would like to invite all of you to join myself and our friend Jon in the Polar Bear Plunge into Long Lake on January 1, at 1 pm. I'm going to start the New Year with some excitement. Anyone else game?

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

Since everyone likes a little snack on New Year's Eve, as we wait for the ball to drop, I thought you might want to try a lighter version appetizer.  http://www.3fatchicks.com/diet-recipes/blt-spread/

Tune in tomorrow for an announcement about how you can win a $50 gift certificate to the store or restaurant of your choice. All followers and members can participate and your chance of winning has nothing to do with weight loss. More details to follow.

I managed to make it through yesterday by setting small goals and following the basics. Chet wasn't able to convince me to raid the refrigerator at midnight. I am back on track. My small step for today is to go to the gym after work and act as if I am weighing in tomorrow. I hope to see other Travelers joining me next week on the minus side in the weekly results.

Happy Trails!

Basic Training

Greetings Friends~

Christmas has come and gone. It was fun while it lasted but the result is that I gained five pounds. Chet is so proud of me.

I have lost some of my previous enthusiasm and motivation, so for my own benefit (and possibly yours), I am going to write about some of the basics that I have gotten away from.

Drink lots of water. The effect on my body is amazing. Here is the link that I published before, which lists why we should drink large amounts of water. Drinking water and weight loss I have slowly started drinking less water and increased soda, alcohol and coffee. I need to get back on the water wagon.

Exercise regularly because this helps the weight fall off. The combination of proper eating and regular exercise increases the body's abliity to burn fat. I have to remember to do different types of exercise or if doing the same routine, that I change something like the intensity or duration. If I go to the gym and do 30 minutes on the treadmill at 3 MPH each day, after awhile my body gets use to this routine and the benefits are lessened. Change it up but do so within reason.

Eat correctly. This is a biggie. I have to get back to stocking the cupboards and refrigerator with foods that are good for me. I must plan ahead to shop and to meal plan as this enables me to prepare foods that are both healthy and appetizing. I must prepare breakfast and lunch for the next day if it is a work day and allow myself time in the evening to do this. I must try to eat a small snack in the morning and afternoon because it keeps my metabolism ramped up.

I must go to bed and stay in bed. My nocturnal eating is the major obstacle to my weight loss. When I give into this, not only does it derail me from the gains that I have made but then the next day I am sluggish and not apt to eat meals as I should.

These are a few of my basics. I hope you take the time to review yours as we enter the New Year.

Inspiration of the Day

If you don't know where you are going, you'll end up someplace else. - Yogi Berra

Recipe of the Day

This looks great. I am hungry just looking at it. Sub ground turkey for an even better healthy dish.
http://www.recipezaar.com/Zucchini-Lasagna-Lasagne-Low-Carb-749

Shopping Tips

Fred Meyer has the following items on sale through next Saturday; frozen turkey breast 4-8 pound range for $1.48 a pound, large avocados for $1 each, select T-bone steaks in the family pack of 3 or more for $4.99 a pound, 16-20 count raw frozen shrimp for $4.99 a pound and broccoli crowns or cauliflower heads for $.98 a pound.

My small steps for today are as follows; pack my gym bag, pack my breakfast and lunch, and take something out of the freezer for dinner tomorrow night, that is fast and easy, since I'm planning on going straight from work to the gym.

Happy Trails!

Merry Christmas

Happy Holidays~

I and Mrs B wish you all a very Merry (safe) Christmas.

In lieu of a post for today, here are some holiday eating tips that were passed to me by a friend. I hope you find them as helpful and enjoyable as I did.

Disclaimer: The following tips are provided for informational purposes only, were not written by the owner of this blog and do not necessarily represent the opinions of this blog.

Important... read carefully...

HOLIDAY EATING TIPS

1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.

2. Drink as much eggnog as you can, and quickly. It's rare...You cannot find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-oholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!

3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.

4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.

5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?

6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.

7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.

8. Same for pies. Apple, Pumpkin, Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?

9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.

10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention.

Re-read tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner. Remember this motto to live by:

"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO what a ride!"

I had already written this post when I received the following email from our good friend Fran. I felt I should share the following with you. Whether this really happened or not is immaterial. It is the point of the story that moved me to tears. Possibly it is because I am exhausted or maybe it is because I love to hear things that remind me that there is still a lot of good in this world.

"I was doing some shopping and decided to look at the dolls. A little girl with a roll of money in her hand was looking at the Barbie's. When she came upon one she liked she would turn to her father and ask "Do I have enough?" He would shake his head "Yes", but she would keep looking and asking after each doll ask, "Do I have enough?"

As she was looking, a little boy came in and started sorting through the Pokemon toys. He too had money, but a much smaller amount. He was looking at the video games. Each time he picked one up, he would look at his father, and his father would shake his head, "No."

The little girl had chosen her Barbie; but she had stopped to watch the boy and his father. Rather dejectedly the boy had given up on the video games. Instead he had found a book of stickers, and then went to another aisle with his father.

The girl put the Barbie back and went over to the Pokemon games. She picked up the one that had been left on top and raced toward the check out stand with her father.

I, with my purchases, got in line behind them. To the girl's obvious delight, the boy and his father got in line behind me.

After the toy was paid for the little girl whispered something to the cashier who smiled and put it under the counter.

I paid for my items and was looking through my purse when the boy came up to the cashier. She rang up his purchase and then said, "Congratulations, you are the 100th customer today. You have won a prize!" With that she handed him the Pokemon game. He stared in disbelief and said that it was exactly what he had wanted.

The girl and her father who had been watching, then exited the store. As they walked through the parking lot with me following a few steps behind, I heard the father ask his daughter why she had done that. I will never forget what she said.

"Didn't Grandma and Grandpa want me to buy something that would make me really happy?"

"Of course" he said.

"Well I did!" and with that, she giggled and skipped toward their car.

Apparently she had answered her own question of "Do I have enough?"

Have a very Merry Christmas and be thankful that you have enough.

Happy Holidays to you and yours!

It's Not Too Late To Get A Workout In

Greetings Friends~

Breaking News....since I have heard whispers behind my back (and to my face also) about my baggy britches, I made a quick stop today to see if I could find some new pants. Bear in mind that as a chubster, clothes shopping is nothing less than humiliating. Not today. I started this journey wearing pants in a size 46 waist. That is the biggest that you can find at a regular store like Shopko or Target`. When I started, I was worried that if I got any fatter, I'd have to go to Fat Albert's Big (read fat) and Tall Store. I was stuffing a 50" waist...I am ashamed to say...into those size 46's. Hell, I even went online to see if I could find a pants stretcher in order to avoid the Fatman's store. I am happy to tell you that I am now the proud owner, of two pairs. of size 42 waist pants. Even better, I didn't have to suck in my breath in order to get them buttoned. (Crap, I hope they don't shrink. Mrs B loves to shrink my clothes). Kudo's to me!

Well, the holiday chaos continues. I hope that you are faring well. I am exhausted but sad that it is almost over. I have completed almost all of my projects and shopping...almost but not all. I have stocking stuffers to get yet.

The following is an email that I received from Sally, who is a follower, and very supportive of our cause. I hope you enjoy it and find it as helpful as I did. Here are some of that fit lady's tips for staying on the thin side of life.

"You’ve been busy and haven’t had time to work out. When that happens to me, the “non-work out” period frequently stretches to 1 – 2 or 3 months with the related weight gain. I relate to how hard it is to work out or go to the gym, especially if I’ve not been there in a while. I’ll share some of my tricks on myself to get back on track. You probably know all these, but I’m kind of like you. It helps me to stay on track if I share my goals and means to get there. Thanks for listening.


Think small.

· Overwhelming: I don’t have time to change, get to the gym, do all the stuff I should, drive back home, change, etc. That’s 2-3 hours….maybe tomorrow instead; or next week or maybe January when life is easier – yeah right.

· Doable: It takes me 15 minutes in my pj’s in the morning on the living room rug in front of the TV to do my ab exercises. I do these without fail (usually) while I get a quick look at the news and weather. (I’m sending you the ones I do.)

· Doable: It takes 30 minutes in my pj’s in front of the news to do my upper body free weights Monday, Wednesday and Friday. (I’ll send you these too)

· Doable: 40 minutes on my treadmill after work (not after dinner-won’t happen) while watching a DVD with an episode of an old Boston Legal in front of me. I buy seasons of shows I like and only watch them on the treadmill. I tell myself I only have to walk, but always end up alternating running and walking.

It’s not a work out (boring and easy to procrastinate); it’s working toward my current (ever changing) goal. Sometimes working out has a totally different purpose for me.

· Overwhelming: I have to work out again – see above – driving, changing, etc.

· Doable: I’ve done my upper body free weights for a week now and am ready to increase the weight a little-that’s exciting. I want to increase the weight and see a little more tone in my biceps

· Doable: I have some new exercises in my new magazine and want to try them. The old exercises aren’t working so much anymore.

· Doable: I really need to see the next episode of my show so I’ll climb on that ol’ treadmill

· Doable: I love how it looks when I drive by and see a fit woman running. I realize I look cool like that when I’m out there running or even walking at a brisk pace. (Ok, maybe I don’t look as cool as that 20 year old –this is MY fantasy so shut up!) I can go out and look cool for 30 minutes.

· Doable: I don’t feel like running, but it’s spring and I’ll run through the old Capitol neighborhood and look at the blooming flowers. Or, it’s fall and I’ll run around Capitol Lake and look at the glorious changing leaves. Or it’s summer and I like how tanned my arms and legs get on a 45 minute run.

· Doable: I have a new album loaded on my IPod and I really want to learn the songs so I’ll run or get on the treadmill to listen.

I need a major shake-up of my brain. Everything stops working after a while. I kept track of my food and exercise on my cell phone since 2004 and it was very effective for me. But, I started gaining weight in the last 4 months. I figured out, I wasn’t really paying attention anymore and was cheating on portions, etc. I tossed the software and changed how I pay attention now.

· My lunch is almost always Lean Cuisine. That’s easy, calorie controlled and works. Restaurants and dinner cause more problems; especially if it tastes good. My new thing is portion control. I stop tasting it after 6 bites anyway, so I use your trick of putting half (or more) in the "to go" box before I start eating. If I don’t see it on plate, I’m better at stopping when the initial wonderful taste dulls.

· I don’t count calories and fat as much as fiber. If I take away something like calories, I feel deprived. My goal instead is to get the most fiber I can during the day. Of course, high fiber foods are usually low calorie and filling so it doesn’t leave as much craving for those bad things. When I want a snack I try to eat high fiber crackers with peanut butter or a piece of fruit. Of course portion control is there – I’ll have 6 high fiber Wheat Thins with peanut butter. It stops the hunger, gives me lots of fiber and is good for me.

· On the way home from work, I eat a banana or apple or crackers in the car so my stomach catches up and I’m not starving when I get home.

· If I’m out of control and going to eat something bad, again, I go for portion control. I’ve been known to buy chocolate chip cookie dough to eat it raw. I let myself, but break off 4 to eat and put the rest directly into the garbage outside. I know; very wasteful, but I get my sugar fix without losing control. The same works for chips – I either buy the small bag or else take out the amount I’m going to eat and throw the rest away.

· I’m never allowed to eat out of the bag, box or dish. I put what I’m going to eat into a dish and put the rest away. If I’m going to eat crackers and the box says 6 crackers are 120 calories and 6 grams of fiber, then that’s what I take out of the box and eat. If I eat out of the box, I’ll end up eating half the box…bad. I guess the lesson is making myself pay attention and decide to eat 6 crackers; not pretending I don’t notice I just ate 1100 calories."

Thanks Sally, there is a lot of great material in there (and I'm not talking about my old pair of pants either).

Inspiration of the Day

Adventure is not outside a man. It is within. - David Grayson

Recipe of the Day

Eating fish three times a week has been proven to have great health benefits. Unfortunately, I'm not much on fish so when I find a delicious looking and sounding recipe, I just have to share.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Miso-Glazed-Salmon-117372

Only 1 more shopping day until Christmas. If there is a man in your life, please let him know this, because it's our favorite shopping day of the holiday season. Less choices to confuse us and normal people are already at home watching that kid shoot his eye out.

Don't forget to eat sanely today for we never know what calories tomorrow may bring. If you have to take a dish to dinner, find a healthy alternative and demonstrate to everyone your new found self control with One Step at a Time. Small steps can lead to major accomplishments.

Happy Trails!

Week 1 Results or Is My Fudge Showing?

Greetings Friends~

Here are the Results for Week 1, summed up in one word, DISMAL. This week's winner is Rebecca who should receive MAJOR props for being the only one of the group to lose weight this week. She lost 3 pounds. Way to go, Little Sister. Look at who is being the inspiration now.

I think the reasons for the poor showing this week are many. Some members thought we were starting in the new year. Some of us fell victim to Christmas parties and cheer. Some of us aren't eating, exercising or drinking enough WATER because we are caught up in Christmas. Some of us are the taste testers of calorie laden products being produced at Evil Chet's Chocolate Consortium.

For whatever reason, it was a bad week in Whoville. I know that I am going to make every attempt to get back on track by next Monday. The weekend should bring some much needed rest and the opportunity to exercise, along with a chance to purge the house of temptation and gets some healthy food choices laid in.

As I said yesterday, I am up a pound. I hope to get rid of that by next week and hopefully another pound or two. We'll see how that goes because Chet wants to celebrate another successful Christmas season being over.

Next week I will be writing about two other exciting events for the new year and Part 2. Make sure to tune in.

Unfortunately I am no longer able to notify people each day when there is a new posting. It would seem that I have exceeded the allowable number of emails to Yahoo, Hotmail and MSN, so they now have labeled me a spammer. I've been called worse things (frequently).

For future reference, you should know that barring any kind of emergency, power outage or freakin' Comcast snafu, there will be a post everyday Monday through Friday. Weekends and holidays are optional.

Inspiration of the Day

Failure is not the worst thing in the world, The very worst is not to try.- Anonymous

Recipe of the Day

You might want to try this over the weekend when you are relaxing and need a break from all the fat laden Christmas holiday fare.

 http://www.recipezaar.com/Lo-Mein-Soup-304358

 I hope that everyone is surviving. I do see a light at the end of the tunnel. I think it is red and is either a fast moving train or Rudolph is doing a flyby exercise prior to Thursday night. Do the best you can to keep on track and if you take a detour, don't fret. One Step at a Time means that we always get another chance for redemption and the opportunity to do better tomorrow.

Happy Trails!

Breaking News

Greetings Friends ~

Let's get right to the heart of the matter with a couple of exciting items.

First, due to a generous contribution from Randy, the Grand Prize for Olympia's Biggest Loser / One Step at a Time has now grown to $500 for the Biggest Loser of Part 2! That is a wonderful incentive and I appreciate Randy's generosity.

For those of you that want to get on board in this competition, remember that you have to set a starting weight on my digital scale. Either come to my work or Have Scale Will Travel. The sooner you establish your weight, the better chance you have.

Second, as Mrs B and I were popping kettle corn this weekend, I came up with an idea for a fund raising event to boost the prize even higher. Some time this spring, WE'RE POP'N! Kettle Corn will donate all profits made which will then be added to the Grand Prize. I plan on letting all of our friends, co-workers and family know that they can pre-order kettle corn and then once we know how many bags to make, we will get to popping. I anticipate that we should be able to add another $250 to $500 to the prize. We haven't popped for three years and we are regularly getting requests for our delicious (and very fattening) corn. More details to follow.

I am almost exhausted by the tasks of the season. I gained a pound this week which was probably due to not eating regularly more than eating the wrong things. I have to admit that I may have licked the bowl a few times as I was cooking so maybe that was it.

The challenge now is to survive Christmas Eve dinner at Dad's and Christmas Day Dinner at Mom's without getting totally ignorant, not only with my choices but also with the quantities. I find myself craving anything...ANYTHING...smothered in gravy. It must be because I'm neglecting meals. I think I'll try to stick with the healthier choices, skip the desserts, skip the nog (with alcohol) and if I am going to cheat at all, it will be with an extra cup or two of coffee.

Only 4 shopping days till Christmas.

Inspiration of the Day

There is nothing like a dream to create the future. – Victor Hugo, 1802-1885, French Poet/Dramatist/Novelist

Recipe of the Day

I'm in the mood for some chicken with a nice steamed vegetable and a green salad. Here is today's pick.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Ginger-Me-up-Chicken-Low-Fat-Honey-Ginger-Chicken-Breasts-211485

Shopping Tips

Fred Meyer has the following item on sale; assorted apples for $.88 a pound. Everything else on sale is full of crap carbs, high in fat and low in nutritional value. Besides, if you are crazy enough to go here this week (like I tried to do today), you should be in the pharmacy instead of the grocery section.

Holiday goodie preparations continues. My small step for today is to get to bed no later than midnight and to make my breakfast and lunch tonight. Don't let the season derail you, take a deep breath and remember that you can get through this One Step at a Time.
Happy Trails!

Weekend Update or They're Off!

Greetings Friends~

So far several individuals, old members and new, are indicating that they are going to compete for the new $250 Grand Prize. This reward, for being the next Biggest Loser, may even grow as I've had people indicate that they might want to donate to the cause. Now that's what I'm talking about!

I know that I am going to attempt to win but, if I don't, and it goes to someone else, so be it. I know that I plan on dropping at least as much as I did in Part 1. If someone has a higher percentage than me then they deserve to win.

I stepped on my scale today at work and unfortunately I have gained a pound since last Monday's weigh in. That damn late night eatin' Chet. I knew I shouldn't have splurged and added salt to those two bowls of homemade chicken veggie soup last night. How do I feel about this? While I am not happy about it, I'm also not sad either. Previously I could gain a pound an hour because of my obsession with food. Gaining one pound in 5 days is pretty minor in the whole scheme of things, especially since I've been working so hard this week on Christmas gifts and I've neglected my diet, workouts and water consumption.

I should be done with most of my stuff by next Wednesday so my workouts will resume then. Mrs B has been a great help while at the same time still continuing with her workouts. I still hope to lose enough by January 1, 2010 to treat myself to that new fancy gym bag and I won't be buying the first one I see. I will be doing some shopping!

Inspiration of the Day

Accept good advice gracefully--as long as it doesn't interfere with what you intended to do in the first place. Gene Brown

 

Recipe of the Day

Holy Crap-a-rooni Travelers! Does this look good or what? The ingredients for this dish would probably also work as a crock pot meal that you can make the night before and set on low before you rush out the door for work in the morning. Serve this with a nice green salad and it will be a meal to remember.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Swiss-Steak-From-so-Fat-Low-Fat-No-Fat-Cookbook-322329

Now it's time to say goodbye...remember to stick with the program and send me your new weight on Monday. Really guys, it helps me out if I don't have to chase you down on Tuesdays, One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

Holy Cow!

Greetings Friends~

I can not believe that it is Thursday already and that Christmas Eve is only seven days from now. It is safe to say that I am in full panic mode concerning the things that I still need to accomplish before then.

Christmas is like most other things in my life. I always take on more than any one person is humanly possible of accomplishing. One difference this year is that I haven't procrastinated. Woohoo...I started early and preplanned. Unfortunately, I also doubled my usual holiday projects so I no farther ahead than usual. I don't know why I always do this. Perhaps it is because I was made to do horrible things as a child like eating liver or broccoli. Who knows? You'd think that I'd learn. Nope.

My diet is often like this. I set such high expectations on myself that I either nearly kill myself trying to accomplish them or I get depressed (and give up) because I am not meeting the unrealistic goals that I set.

My hope is that one day, when I grow up, that I will figure out how to avoid these types of situations. Until then, I suppose I will have to learn to cope with staying up till 3:30 am, making hundreds of hand dipped chocolates. See below for a small sampling of what I have been doing.

As promised in yesterday's post, there is a new development in One Step at a Time, Part 2. Remember, I make the rules so no complaints will be tolerated.

So, without further adieu, here it is.

As I have said in the past, One Step at a Time is here so that ALL of us will get in shape and lose weight. Some of us are highly motivated, and others, somewhat less so.

In order to provide an added incentive, The Biggest Loser for Part 2 will be awarded a GRAND PRIZE of $250. Think that might motivate us? I sure hope so...cuze...I might have a hard time convincing Mrs B that WE should pony up more cash. That being said...

Here is how it will work. If you want to be considered for the prize, you must let me KNOW and you have to establish a starting weight on MY scale. This scale is located at my office. It is brand spanking new and very accurate. My co-workers amuse themselve each day by stopping by to see how much they gained by eating that PASTA AL FREDO last night. You can make arrangements to weigh in during normal working hours (8 AM- 5 PM -- Monday thru Friday) OR, I will meet you here at the time of your choosing. At the final weigh in you will use my scale again to demonstrate how well you have done. I will be the only witness to what the scale is reading so don't worry that you will be displaying a starting weight in front of others. I will keep a chart that shows your starting weight and finishing weigh. The person with the highest percentage of weight loss will get $250 in CASH, at a celebration party rife with DIET food, that coincides with the finale of the Biggest Loser, which starts in January. I do not have that exact date of that finale yet but it is my understanding that this will be in May.

Your weekly weigh in and the tracking of your weight loss will continue as before. My scale will only be used for a beginning and ending benchmark.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me or post that question here. I am anxious to hear your opinions.

Inspiration of the Day

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. - Eleanor Roosevelt, 1884-1962, American Humanitarian and Former First Lady of the United States

Recipe of the Day

Low in fat, high in protein and contains a better, healthier carb than regular potatoes. Give this a try and spice up your meal plan.
http://www.recipezaar.com/Slow-Cooker-Latin-Chicken-W-Sweet-Potatoes-and-Black-Beans-253599

I hope that you will join me in pursuing better health (and the NEW brass ring). My small steps for today are to eat cautiously and to make sure that I don't lick the bowl when making tonight's candies.

Happy Trails!

Whose Life Will You Save Today?

Greeting Friends~

Hi, I'm Chip and I am a food addict. Thanks for reading today.

My journey continues. When I first started, I tipped the scales (literally) at 334 pounds. I am now down 45 pounds and feeling better. Better, but not as good as I will feel 25 or 50 or 75 or 100 pounds from now.

Before I began this journey, I had a Body Mass Index of 46.7 which is considered morbidly obese. I now have an index of 40.4. I'm happy that this number is dropping BUT I am still considered morbidly obese. If you would like to know what your current BMI is, click on the link below.

Find out what your Body Mass Index (BMI) is by clicking here.

Anyone with an index of 40 or greater is considered morbidly obese...so, as Maxwell Smart use to say, "Missed it by that much." Anyone with an index of 30 to 40 is considered obese. Woohoo, I'm almost ONLY obese.

You can see that I have a ways to go in this journey. Steady and slow was the turtle who eventually made it to the finish line. That is me. I am plodding along and have NO plans on quitting.

Unfortunately Travelers, there are others who seem to take their life threatening obese disability lightly. Who me, you ask? Yes, I am talking to you. Those of us in the My Pants Must Have Shrunk in the Dryer Club have the uncanny ability to blame our situation on everyone else but ourselves and we are so ingenius in our fabrication of excuses.

The reality is that there is no better time to do this. Ever. If we wait until the holidays are over...or when we make more money...or...you get the point. If we wait until later, we will never do it. As they say, there is no time like the present. Well Poppits, this IS the present.

Take it from a fellow fat ass. Life will only get better if we get smaller and fitter. You can take that to the bank.

I can now tie my shoes without getting winded or breaking out in a sweat that would make a marathon runner proud. I now have more energy. I now feel better. I now have more will power. I now feel better about myself.

Isn't it time that you did the same?

So, here is the deal (and this will undoubtedly get me in trouble with Mrs B), I feel so strongly about you and I losing this weight that I am willing to put my money where my mouth is. Tune in tomorrow, same Bat time, same Bat channel, for the details. I promise that you won't be disappointed.

Inspiration of the Day

A preoccupation with the future not only prevents us from seeing the present as it is but often prompts us to rearrange the past. - Eric Hoffer, 1902-1983

Recipe of the Day

Fast, easy and a nice alternative to tortillas. Try it as is or with chicken or tuna. Great for lunches.
http://www.recipezaar.com/Carbless-Low-Calorie-Turkey-Lettuce-Wraps-87000

Shopping Tips

Ralph's Thriftway has the following items on sale; radishes and green onion 2 for $1, premium yams for $.88 a pound, asparagus for $1.88 a pound, medium navel oranges for $.68 a pound, whole Del Monte pineapple for $1.88 each, frozen extra large shrimp 31-40 ct for $4.99 a pound (or $8.98 if you buy a 2# bag), Martinelli Sparkling Cider for $1.79 each, Western Family canned vegetables (great for your food drive at work) for $.50 each and BLACK OLIVES for $.99 a can.

Top Foods has fresh green beans or brussels sprouts for $1 a pound, navel oranges for $.45 a pound, medium avocados for $.57 each, assorted apples for $1 a pound and celery for $.79 a pound.

Part 2 is like getting a "do over" for those of you that didn't do as well as you have liked. Take the opportunity to give yourself a Christmas present that will actually do some good by proving that you want to extend your life. No need to wait for those New Year's resolution. Decide now that you want to make the change today and get started. My small step for today is to stay out of the peanut jar. I believe that the results that Rebecca, Susan and myself posted are significant but pale in comparison to the shy Biggest Loser out there that is just waiting to be unleashed. You know that I am talking to you.

Happy Trails!

Week 12 Results

Greetings Friends~

Without further ado, here are the final results for Part 1.



Kudos to my extremely dedicated and energetic sister Rebecca. Way to go! I think everyone else, from the largest to the smallest loser, should congratulate themselves. Any progress towards better health is a step in the right direction.

The One Step at a Time group as a whole lost 227 pounds for a 5.8% loss. Let's give ourselves a huge pat on the back!

Inspiration of the Day

Self-confidence is the first requisite to great undertakings. – Samuel Johnson, 1709-1784, English Author and Critic

I apologize for the briefness of this post. I am right in the middle of Christmas baking and I still have several hours of grueling candy dipping before I can get ready for bed. I haven't been working out because of this but I have been eating very responsibly so hopefully I won't start off Part 2 with a gain. Keep up the good work Travelers and remember to put the word out to your equally jolly and rotund friends that a new season is about to start. They too are welcome to join us on the journey as we do this One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

It's A Wonderful Life or My Belt Use to be This Big!

Greetings Friends~

Today is the end of Olympia Biggest Loser / One Step at a Time. Boy, how time flies. So far I have heard from Susan, Rebecca, Randy, Kristin, Jamie and Ladelle who are interested in continuing, as well as a new member, Joe who is starting today. With me, that makes eight who are interested in journeying towards better health and a longer life.

Tomorrow I will post the Biggest Loser of Part Uno.

I am now 40+ pounds lighter so I think it is safe to say that this little experience seems to be working. My knees haven't hurt in days, and for that, I am thankful. I have more energy...my belt is tightening to levels unseen for several years... I am beginning to think that I might reach 60.

It is my goal that by the end of Part II that I am at the 200 pound mark. Lofty goal...but not impossible. The finale of the next phase will be somewhere close to my 53rd birthday. I am motivated to get to that goal.

Right now with the holidays it is hard to stick with the plan. It isn't the diet so much as it is the exercise part. I have so much to do that I have to make some sacrifices. As much as I hate to admit it, the thing I have to cut out right now is the gym.

Two weeks and I will be back on track. From that point, I have no real pressing commitments so you will see me "pouring it on" then.

I would like to extend a special thanks to Jennifer (JIrish). For a skinny, fit woman, she has put out almost as much effort in supporting us, as the rest of us have, in dieting and working out. Thanks for being such a great friend and source of inspiration.

Inspiration of the Day

Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. - Norman Vincent Peale, 1898-1993, American Preacher and Author of "The Power of Positive Thinking"

Recipe of the Day

I'm in the mood for something light that reminds me of summer. I hope you like this as much as I do.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Cucumber-Salad-51721

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas. This is my favorite time of year. The difference this year Travelers is that I won't be stuffing myself like a luau pig. If you, or someone else that you know, is in need of better health and fitness, SEND THEM THIS WAY. We always have room for more. My small step for today is to keep out of the bad food and eat only the GREEN stuff.

Happy Trails!

Weekend Update

Greetings Friends~

This is your weekly reminder that I need your FINAL weight for Part 1 on Monday, December 14th. The Biggest Loser will be announced the following day. Get in that Last Chance workout if you want to boost your weight loss and overall results.

As I previously said, I would be giving some thought to how Part 2 is going to work. Here is what I have come up with.

Starting weights and subsequent weight loss for Part 2 will start over. I gave this considerable thought before deciding to do it this way.

Here are a couple of my reasons.

First, the Biggest Loser had Daniel back as a contestant even though he was on an earlier season. His starting weight was re-tabulated and his losses (for the sake of the competition) were only calculated on the current season (and not the total amount from the earlier season). Allison did occasionally mention his previous starting weight but that was for information purposes only.

Second, I want this program to help more than myself. Honestly, some of the current members probably did not do as well as they could have but by starting over, maybe they might get motivated. That way people won't think, "I can't ever catch Rebecca so why try?" I realize that this line of thinking is ?????

At the same time, I think it is EXTREMELY important to recognize our previous achievements so I am modifying the Result spreadsheet (below) so it reflects that.

The first page will be current standings for Part 2 and this will be what is used to recognize weekly, monthly and overall winners.

The second page of the spreadsheet (viewable by clicking your mouse on Summary) will be a grand total of weight losses and percentages for each individual since they began. This will be for information (and accolades) only and will not be utilized for anything other than bragging rights.



Inspiration of the Day

If a man insisted always on being serious, and never allowed himself a bit of fun and relaxation, he would go mad or become unstable without knowing it. - Herodotus, 484 BC-430 BC

Recipe of the Day

http://www.recipezaar.com/weight-watchers-australian-pea-salad-recipe-369775

Sorry that this post is late. I have been burning the candle at both ends trying to get regular life stuff done, as well as all my Christmas cooking and baking. I am on vacation until Wednesday so hopefully I will be able to cross a lot off my list. You might ask how can I bake without succumbing to temptation. No problemo. I'm not really a sweets addict. Now, if I was packaging raised yeast rolls in my gift bags, I would be in deep trouble. Mrs. B is off at water aerobics right now. I skipped. Bad Chet. Oh well, my small step for today is to put my guilt aside and bake like there is no tomorrow. I will be making candy and cookies, One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

Don't Forget The Basics

Greetings Friends~

I'm in the twelfth week of my diet journey and struggling. Not struggling as I snuck out at lunch today and closed down the pizza buffet at The Rock. Struggling as in the weight isn't falling off fast enough to satisfy me. Struggling as in I'm not looking forward to a workout. Struggling as in I'm not feeling motivated.

Being the type of person who is fixated on analyzing the crap out of the smallest things, I have to ask myself why.

I'm not sure of the answer yet. I'll have to get back to you on that, if and when I figure it out. I do have a guess though.

Over the last several weeks I have started deviating from the basics. I am occasionally skipping meals. I am starting to ease up on my workouts and the frequency of the workouts. I am starting to eat meals that are not complete. I am starting to procrastinate on preparing meals ahead. AND, I am starting to drink less water during the day.

All of these things may contribute to a smaller weight loss and when I don't lose, I feel even less inclined to push myself.

In sports today, be it high school, college or professional, you will often see a new coaching staff come in to replace the old one. The new staff usually will go back to the beginning or the basics for skills and techniques. They believe that the fundaments are a necessity.

I think now is a good time for me to do the same thing. Go back to the basics. A short refresher, on what got me to this 45 pound weight loss, is in order. If I can re-establish those habits and behaviors that got me this far, then I should be able to see better progress. I can hear some of you now, saying to yourself, that I should be more patient. That I should be happier about my slow pace.

I am happy about my progress so far BUT I believe being as FAT as I am, this gives me a greater opportunity to post bigger numbers. That is what I would like to do.

Inspiration of the Day

You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help him find it within himself. - Galileo

Recipe of the Day

Start the day right with a hearty and healthy portion of this tasty bowl of oatmeal.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Peach-Oatmeal-117412

I suppose that I haven't been very inspiring recently. For this I apologize. It is difficult to do this blog on certain days because I allow the behavior of others to dictate my feelings. If the group does well as a whole, I feel happy. If the group is struggling, then I feel as if I am not doing something correctly. One of these days I am going to be learn how to separate the behaviors and emotions of others from those of my own.

My small step for today is to review the basics. If I do the things that work, One Step at a Time, then I will see progress.

Happy Trails!

Anything Is Possible

Greetings Friends~

Last night was the finale of Biggest Loser. I hope that you took the time to watch because it was...hmmm, hard to come up with the right adjective to describe the high level of success that the contestants reached... suffice to say that their results are phenomenal.

I am going to print both of these pictures and mount them on my wall at work, right behind my computer. That way, I will be constantly reminded of what is possible if I continue to work at it.

There has been a significant amount of criticism concerning this season. People complain that Bob and Jillian are too abusive. A portion of the viewers remark that the show has become to commercialized.

My opinion about Bob and Jillian is this. Actions speak louder than words. Look at the overwhelming amount of weight that the contestants lost. The trainers play a major part in that, and while viewers may not approve of these tactics, clearly those competing do. Even with all the yelling, swearing and screaming, by the end of the season, every one of the contestants LOVE the trainers. No exceptions.

As far as all the "commercials" and brand name pitches for things such as Brita water filters, Jennie-O turkey products, Extra gum, etc., I say, "so what." They usually keep these very short.

We watched them talk about how we can reduce the amount of plastic bottles going to the landfill by purchasing a Brita filter. Mrs B and I talked that over, thought it was a valid point, so we spent $30 at Costco for a pitcher. Love it!

I am now trying to work ground turkey into my diet, substituting this for ground beef wherever possible. The Mexican Lasagna I made last week using it turned out great. Jennie-O turkey? Love it!

We don't rush out to buy everything we see on the show. I do appreciate the occasional plug for a product because it reminds me that there are alternatives or new fangeled contraptions...heck, those Zip and Steam bags work great.

My only complaint is that the show is not aired 52 weeks a year.

For the other Biggest Loser junkies out there, here is a link to 2009 BL pictures.

Inspiration of the Day

Pessimism never won any battle. - Dwight D. Eisenhower, 1890-1969, 34th President of the United States

Recipe of the Day

Quick, easy and good for you. The perfect combination.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Salmon-and-Asparagus-in-Foil-113817

Shopping Tips

Safeway has the following items on sale this week; 2 pound bag of baby carrots for $1.48, Jennie-O lean ground turkey 20 oz. for $3.50 each, Hostess Ding Dongs 2 for $5, Barilla whole wheat pasta for $1 each and assorted pears for $1.49 a pound.

Top Foods has the following items on sale this week; Dungeness crab for $3.99 a pound, Fresh Express Coleslaw or Garden Salad mix for $1 each and organic carrots in the 1 pound bag for $.79 each.

Albertsons has the following items on sale this week; Progresso Vegetable Classic soups for $1 each, Progresso Light or Reduced Sodium soups for $1.39 each, Colossal wild caught scallops for $8.99 a pound and Lean Cuisine Frozen Entrees for $1.99 each.

Each day brings a new challenge for me. Some are easy to deal with and others take more effort. My small step for today is to workout. I only have five more work out opportunities before the end of Part 1. I need to concentrate on today and go about my program One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!

Week 11 Results

Greetings Friends~

Tonight is the Biggest Loser finale...really...I have it correct this time.

Here are the results for Week 11. Kudos to Rebecca and myself.



We are now in our final week of Season 1, Part 1, of Olympia's Biggest Loser/One Step at a Time. If you have been reading, you are aware that I have asked the current members to let me know which ones want to do Part 2. So far I have heard from several people but not all. Only those that I receive an affirmative answer from will participate in the next session.

Here is how Part 2 is going to work (subject to change).

Our starting date is Monday, December 14. We are starting immediately upon the conclusion of Part 1. I thought about starting at the beginning of the new year but honestly, I don't want to go through Christmas (and New Years) without One Step at a Time. Personally, if I don't have the weigh in on Monday to look forward to (or dread), I think I will lose some ground.

That being said, the rest of you can choose to start anytime you would like. If you do not want to start until January 1st, or some alternative date, just let me know.

I haven't devised a scheme yet for how to tabulate results in Part 2. Should I continue with the overall percentages already achieved in Part 1 or use only Part 2 losses and add an additional column that shows the total loss since the beginning? Also, if you are a returning member who chooses to start later, and you gain pounds over the holidays, should you be able to start at your current weight or will you have to use the number from Week 12?

These are a couple of questions that I am struggling with. Any input from Followers and Members is greatly appreciated.

Inspiration of the Day

The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up. - Mark Twain, 1835-1910, American Writer and Humorist

 
Recipe of the Day

Pork, the other white meat. This is a welcome alternative to chicken, turkey and fish plus it is low fat. I hope you enjoy it.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Spicy-Pork-Tenderloin-Pitas-258314

I find myself struggling with personal issues today and so I'm having a hard time getting enthused about anything. My small step for today is... to get through THIS day... and hope that tomorrow is a better.

Happy Trails!

Stress Part 2 or Point Your Finger at Yourself

Greetings Friends~

Recently Mrs B and myself were discussing the effect of dieting and exercise on our stress level. It is this subject that I would like to touch on today.

Living healthy can be a burden, and when we are burdened, we often get depressed and stressed. I know if I have to plan, shop, coordinate and then cook a meal, this is certainly more stressful than if I grabbed a pizza on the way home. One stop gluttony...but...I am definitely not stressed about a time crunch or having to cook.

Getting out and exercising, whether at the gym or on my own, is hard. There is never enough time in the day to get things done. Throw a half an hour or an hour or TWO hours into the mix and things get pretty dicey. There are only so many hours in a day.

What is the solution? I say, quit dieting...eat anything and everything you want. Don't exercise...really...it is WAY over rated...watch TV, eat popcorn and drink LOTS of pop. I guarantee that you will get your exercise refilling your glass and running to the bathroom.

Is my sarcasm showing? Maybe...maybe not.

If my expectation is to live a life with no stress, then I should do everything I can do to minimize it. The thing is, no matter what I do, I am going to have considerable tension in my life. It is almost impossible to avoid in this day and age. Heck, speaking of age, I find that the older I get, the more things there are to be stressed about.

Funny thing, this stress. No matter what I do to avoid it, there is always going to be something that comes along to make me want to go postal. If I think that is going to change at some point in the future, then I am a dolt.

So, let's review. I get stressed. I want to avoid stress. There is always going to be stress.

At this point, evil Chet tells me to just throw my hands up and eat whenever crap I want...because that is the course of least resistance.

Wrong. Wrong. Wrong.

The truth of the matter is, I am going to get stressed no matter what the choice is, so why shouldn't I make the "right" decision? If I choose to get healthy, here are all the stresses that I will no longer have to live with.

• I'll be able to look forward to shopping for clothes.
• I'll be able to climb stairs without huffing and puffing.
• I'll be able to board a plane without worrying about a seat belt extension.
• I'll be able to meet new people without worrying if they think I am a fat ass.
• I'll be able to take my nephews and nieces to Wild Waves and not worry about whether I'll fit on the ride.
• I'll be able to bike, hike, walk, run, skip and jump without worrying that I might stroke out.
• I'll be able to (fill in the blank) without worrying about (fill in the blank).

I think I will choose some stress now, that rewards me, with less stress later.

Inspiration of the Day

Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy. - Anne Frank, 1929-1945, German-born Diarist

Recipe of the Day

Substituting ground turkey for ground beef is an excellent way in cooking to lower your calorie intake and avoiding a lot of fat.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Acapulco-Golden-Burgers-128735

Shopping Tip of the Day

I don't have anything to report from the Fred Meyer flier from Sunday. Not many savings there this week for those that don't eat chips and drink beer.

This is the last week of Olympia's Biggest Loser and One Step at a Time. Make it a good one. As I said, if you want to participate in "Season 2" which starts soon, you have to let me know. At this point we only have a couple of volunteers.

Happy Trails!

Weekend Update or Wait Your Turn

Greetings Friends~

It appears that we made it thru another work week relatively unscathed. The only time of the week better than a Friday, is Monday, at 5pm.

Yesterday I hinted, in my comment, about my latest idea to chronicle my weight loss. I'll get to that in a second. I'm not new to dieting. I have been on four very successful ones in my life time. The first when I was a teen and I dropped about 50 pounds. I get inspired and motivated about once a decade and as you know, each time I gain it all back. I'm extremely worried about that happening AGAIN.

I must be able to remind myself about the "before" so I can maintain the "after". I am constantly thinking about how to reinforce my accomplishments and how to avoid putting it back on.

Here is what I thought of last night. I'm going to call this my Gold Medal method of displaying my weight loss. In my office at work, I have a table. I am going to stack...right where I will have to see it every day...a 5 pound bag of flour for each 5 pounds that I have lost. Eventually, I hope there are (approximately) 33 bags lined up to create a monument to my loss. Right now I am just shy of 9 bags. Not enough to start a bakery but definitely enough that I could bake some cakes.

This also gives me something to look forward to, besides my Monday morning weigh in. Each time another 5 pounds disappears, it will reappear in the form of a bag of Gold Metal...naw...probably generic...flour.

Rewards and reminders are important on the journey. I know that Jennifer has touched on this in her comments as well. I have a few pound left before I get to the 50 pound mark and get myself a new gym bag. Hopefully, this will happen by the end of the month.

Have you thought of your rewards and reminders yet? Share it with the group.

Inspiration of the Day

Your worth consists in what you are and not in what you have. - Thomas Edison, 1847-1931, American Inventor and Entrepreneur

 

Recipe of the Day

Who doesn't like Ranch dressing? Instead of plain old everyday rubber chicken, kick it up a notch and surprise your family with rubber RANCH chicken.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Oven-Ranch-Chicken-Low-Fat-129150


As always, remember to get in that last chance workout. I know if I can eat healthy and exercise appropriately the next couple of days, the scale will reflect it. I'll be watching the Biggest Loser finale on Tuesday night with a smile because I dropped close to a quarter of what I need to, over the season. This time, I won't be discouraged or depressed that I am still fat. Instead, I will be happy that I am THINNER and on my way to being FIT, and I did it One Step at a Time.

Happy Trails!