tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45820608816469895502024-03-08T04:56:08.637-08:00Confessions of a Wannabe Skinny GirlI'm not fat. I'm not skinny. And I love to eat.Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-78514284460557659942011-04-11T19:47:00.000-07:002013-04-22T11:44:50.906-07:00A Lunch QuickieAfter four days of no work outs and not making the best food choices, today it was time to get back on track. With nothing prepared and no leftovers to choose from, I fought my desire to go out to eat and created a lunch made from random items in my refrigerator and pantry. So what was my quickie lunch creation? Da da da dooooom.....<br />
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Here is my EGGcellent lunch. {So lame, I know} It consists of egg whites, sauteed spinach and mushrooms, topped with blue cheese crumbles and paprika. This literally took me 15 minutes and it was DElish. Here's the quickie recipe....<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
-2 cups spinach<br />
-1 cup chopped portobello mushrooms<br />
-1 tbsp. EVOO <br />
-2 tsp. of Worcestershire sauce<br />
-a few dashes of lemon pepper<br />
-3/4 cup egg whites (I use <a href="http://www.allwhiteseggwhites.com/">All Egg Whites</a> from a carton. Good for you, quick and easy)<br />
-1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles<br />
-a few dashes of Paprika <br />
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In one pan, put in EVOO and saute over medium heat the spinach and chopped portobello mushrooms. Add worcestershire sauce and lemon pepper when spinach starts to wilt. In another pan, scramble egg whites over medium heat. <br />
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Plate the scrambled egg whites, pour spinach and mushrooms over eggs and add blue cheese crumbles and a few dashes of paprika. And tada! You are D-O-N-E.<br />
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<i>If you want to add some carbs with this, I made me a grilled cheese with my <a href="http://whyisjunkfoodsogood.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-obcession.html">whole wheat thin buns</a>, 2 % Swiss cheese and added some hummus for extra protein and fiber</i>.<br />
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Hope you enjoy!<br />
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Wannabe Skinny Girl </span></span>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-77358978159575765412011-03-22T14:32:00.000-07:002011-03-22T21:10:13.069-07:00The Skinny: Fighting a Disorder<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="300" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/2567743" width="400"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://vimeo.com/2567743">National Eating Disorders Association</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user1054770">NEDA</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">A few weeks ago, I was made aware of National Eating Disorder Awareness Week. Of course, I’m writing about it a little late, but it is still imperative to create awareness and talk about it, despite my timing.<o:p></o:p></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;">More people die from eating disorders than any other mental illness. Eleven million people suffer from Anorexia and Bulimia, and millions more suffer from binging and purging. Those are crazy statistics. And the number seems to be growing with girls (and boys) seeing these unattainable, airbrushed images splashed across every media outlet.<o:p></o:p></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;">Like most other girls, I have dealt with body image issues and insecurities, but I've never been able to understand what was going on inside someone's head who suffered from an eating disorder. I could not comprehend how they saw a “fat” person when the rest of the world saw skinny. But as I've learned, its more than about just food.<o:p></o:p></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;">I recently started reading Elizabeth Ann’s (or EA as I’ve known her) blog, <a href="http://www.mourningrestoration.blogspot.com/">Mo(u)rning Restoration </a>. She opens up about her struggle with an eating disorder and describes the dark disorder that controlled her for so long. Through her writing, she takes the reader inside her mind and describes the power and constant battle going on inside of her. <a href="http://www.mourningrestoration.blogspot.com/">Read it</a>. Follow her. It’s amazing. She’s amazing.<o:p></o:p></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;">First let me tell you a little bit about how I know EA…..<o:p></o:p></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hondo 2009 (L-R Me, EA & Taylor)</td></tr>
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</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;">I met EA when I went on a mission trip to Honduras in 2009, and I’ve always seen her as a person who was beautiful inside and out. I was amazed by her natural beauty, but more amazed by the way the she loved on the women and children in Honduras. You could see her love for the Lord and for people pour out of her when she placed her hands on people, and just loved on them and prayed over them. <o:p></o:p></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;">I haven't seen EA in a couple of years, but stumbled upon her blog a few months ago. I started reading it and with each paragraph became more engrossed with each passing word. I had no idea she suffered from an eating disorder. <o:p></o:p></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Not only does she share her past struggles, but she shares her amazing progress in recovery as well. I look forward to reading more from her! </div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #a64d79;">Thank you, EA, for your ability to open up and share with the world about your disorder. You show incredible strength and incredible faith in the Lord. I, as well as many others, can look to you by example and know that we can all overcome our struggles-no matter how big or little.</span></i></div></div></div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-52064866745176655502011-02-24T10:01:00.000-08:002011-02-24T10:09:33.617-08:00It's My Birfday & I Want You To Know It<div class="MsoNormal">Though February is usually a dreadful month when everyone is itching for spring, my favorite day of the year happens to fall during that month. This would be my <b><span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">birthday</span></b>. Besides Christmas, my birthday is my favorite holiday, and I revel in the fact that I get special attention on this day. If you didn't already realize from the title of this, I want EVERYONE to know it’s my birthday and acknowledge it. I am fully aware that I sound like a snot, and you might as well shout out OCS (Only Child Syndrome) from the roof tops, but I don’t care. I love my birthday and I don’t care who knows it. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">The night before my birthday, I didn’t feel any excitement. As I lay in bed, I thought “tomorrow will just be another day.” However, I woke up at 5:15 a.m. on February 22 and was giddy as a little school girl. As I headed out to my normal Sweatilates class, I was so excited and touched to see that my roommate had done a little decorating the night before. It was PERFECT. Our kitchen nook was decorated in pink and green and laid out for me was a hot pink boa, a princess crown (for those who know me you are fully aware that this is a must), cupcakes and a present! You could not wipe the smile off of my face. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">And my day got even better. I decided to take off half a day of work and spend time with my mom and grandmother, who I don’t get to see that often. The three of us had a nice relaxing afternoon getting manis and pedis, chatting and sipping champagne. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom and Meme getting their toes done. Looks like mom needs a little champagne refill!</td></tr>
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">I also have to admit that all of the texts, phone calls and especially the messages on Facebook really made my day as well. My phone was constantly vibrating telling me that someone had written on my wall. I would think, “who wrote on my wall this time?” I would click and see who it was, and it brought a smile to my face every time. Though it’s something small, it still made my day a little brighter knowing that someone took the time to wish me a happy birthday. Ahh the little things in life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DlFAZBWJedI/TWaZRYaTkgI/AAAAAAAAAFw/Eb9BHRM1tqA/s1600/notification+mug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DlFAZBWJedI/TWaZRYaTkgI/AAAAAAAAAFw/Eb9BHRM1tqA/s200/notification+mug.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The day could not be complete without a birthday dinner celebration. We all picked out our sassiest outfits and headed to one of my favorite restaurants, <a href="http://chophousevy.com/">Chop House</a>. My dinner was amazing, which consisted of a mixed green salad with a citrus dressing, a filet perfectly pink in the middle, asparagus and homemade mac n' cheese. And we mustn’t forget the champagne! (The three of us share a love for champagne if you didn’t notice.)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">And last but not least….it was time for the CAKE. And this was not just any cake….this was Peggy McKinney's <i style="color: #660000;">CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE CAKE</i> -a birthday tradition that has been going on for many years. The waitress brought out the entire cake with a candle, and half of the restaurant sang, “Happy Birthday” to me. You know I ate that up (the cake and the birthday hymn).</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">Then, much to my dismay, my birthday came to an end. As I looked back at the events of that day, I smiled and realized that this was one of the best birthdays I have had in a really long time. There was no huge party nor did I party like a rock star. But I was able to spend time with the people who mattered most in my life (minus my dad who had to work) and enjoy life’s little pleasures. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom, Me and Meme at Chop House.</td></tr>
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Thank you to my mom, Meme and bestest roomie in the world, Lucy, for making my birthday so great! I love you all so much!</div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-71858975414209198872011-02-15T20:46:00.000-08:002012-08-12T19:36:19.222-07:00FatuaryFat February, or Fatuary as it has now been coined, has been a month filled with delicious, fattening food. February includes the Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day, and most importantly, my birthday month. Those events are my excuses for what I’m about to tell you . Remember, these are Confessions of a WANNABE Skinny Girl, so unfortunately this post will disregard any healthy eating. (Hey, you gotta splurge some times!)<br />
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Let’s first start with the <i><b><span style="color: magenta;">cookie pie</span></b>.</i> Holy Toledo this thing is good. I got this recipe from Mary Robb after it received rave reviews from a certain boy I know.</div>
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First, you get a graham cracker crust from the store…OR you can be Suzie Homemaker and make your own crust…whichever you prefer.</div>
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Then you take cookie dough from the package… OR you over achievers out there can make your own cookie dough..and mush it into the graham cracker crust until it is spread out evenly.</div>
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After those hard acts of labor, simply bake for 1 hour at 325 degrees and TADA!</div>
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To make it extra good (and fattening) add vanilla icecream and chocolate sauce. Yummo!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kl114hMbvCg/TVsEywh1JCI/AAAAAAAAAFI/S9xlzp2DnF0/s1600/pretty+cookie+pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kl114hMbvCg/TVsEywh1JCI/AAAAAAAAAFI/S9xlzp2DnF0/s200/pretty+cookie+pie.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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So the cookie pie officially kicked it off. My conclusion through Fatuary is that if it’s in the house or I'm around it, I WILL eat it! Here are a few more sinful foods that I have indulged in with Fatuary…</div>
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Give me ooey gooey brownies. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Embarrassingly enough, my roomie and I consumed these within 24 hours. WHOAH.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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There were more sweets in there (soft sugar cookies with icing, chocolates for Valentine's Day, an entire roll of *raw* chocolate chip cookie dough), but I digress....</div>
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Then came the Super Bowl. And what do I love most while watching one of the most televised sporting events of the year? That's right...wings with loads of ranch dressing, chips & a 7-layer dip, and a Sweet Water Blue. </div>
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And finally, Fatuary will come to a close with a c<i>hocolate peanut butter bang</i>. My day of birth takes place on the 22<sup>nd</sup> day of February (a glorious day to which George Washington was also born), and I will be indulging myself in the best cake in the land: <b>Peggy McKinney’s chocolate peanut butter fudge cake. </b>This cake is pure heaven.I have no self control when this chocolately goodness is put in front of my face. Not to exaggerate even more, but if I had to choose a last meal, this cake would undoubtedly be part of it. </div>
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After giving you the low down on Fatuary, you are probably thinking I have completely fallen off the wagon with food and exercise. I'm excited to report that despite my indulgences, I have maintained the same weight from when Body Reboot ended and kept the inches off around my waist. </div>
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Like you have heard, and will continue to hear, it's all about balance. If I indulge in too many sweets or find myself going out to eat too often, I pull the reigns back and concentrate on eating at home and eating my veggies, fruits and proteins. And we can't forget the exercise...if I've had a good or bad eating day, I still try to consistently make it to the gym. I don't let a bad day get me down anymore! </div>
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The advice I leave you with is allow for indulgences, but keep pushing yourself to stay active and exercise. Getting to the gym is more than half the battle. </div>
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What is your favorite work out right now?</div>
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</div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-32973632456032361112011-02-10T18:49:00.000-08:002011-02-10T18:49:22.887-08:00S-O-U-POK, so just to ease everyone's worry...I'm still here. I wish I had a good excuse of why I haven't been blogging, but I don't. <br />
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I have to tell you about my discovery...making soup. Such an easy task, yes, but to me, it was something new and exciting! For some reason, I've always been a little intimidated with cooking soup. But one night I grew some courage, searched the pantry and freezer for some random ingredients and threw it together..literally.<br />
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Here's my attempt at what started out as vegetable soup...then it turned into whatever else I wanted to add :)<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">I first gather anything I could find in the freezer and pantry...</div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fjUPe3Y_WN0/TVSePNEdJAI/AAAAAAAAAEg/AlxFrZwZRas/s1600/ingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fjUPe3Y_WN0/TVSePNEdJAI/AAAAAAAAAEg/AlxFrZwZRas/s320/ingredients.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ingredients: Low sodium chicken broth, cannelini beans, canned no salt added spinach, canned no salt added diced tomatoes, frozen brussel sprouts and frozen broccoli</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Can't forget the spices...it's amazing what flavors you can get without increasing the sodium!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rHh7sdM6kLo/TVSfK9sNK8I/AAAAAAAAAEk/7z4hQlXwY7M/s1600/spices.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rHh7sdM6kLo/TVSfK9sNK8I/AAAAAAAAAEk/7z4hQlXwY7M/s320/spices.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All the ingredients & spices dumped into a pot </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x3gYe2fYiA8/TVSf1MVuomI/AAAAAAAAAEo/Cl8aN_1WHFI/s1600/soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x3gYe2fYiA8/TVSf1MVuomI/AAAAAAAAAEo/Cl8aN_1WHFI/s320/soup.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(This was too easy)</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Can't cook without some wine!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TVSgpLy615I/AAAAAAAAAEw/03qUtPkQWNM/s1600/wine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TVSgpLy615I/AAAAAAAAAEw/03qUtPkQWNM/s320/wine.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">And the final product! S-O-U-P</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TVShhXgFdyI/AAAAAAAAAE0/h_QBGpG999Y/s1600/soup+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TVShhXgFdyI/AAAAAAAAAE0/h_QBGpG999Y/s320/soup+final.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything is better with cheese! Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top to seal the deal.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So you've now seen my step-by-step adventure of cooking soup. Pretty easy, but I'm proud! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Does anybody else have any easy-to-make soup recipes that you would like to share?</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-39797808781526379352011-01-19T08:26:00.000-08:002011-01-19T08:56:19.576-08:00New ObsessionLife has been a whirlwind the past three weeks. Since New Year's, I've been home maybe a total of 10 days. But I'm not complaining! In the past three weeks, I went to the <a href="http://asocialmess.com/photos/nye-extravaganza-2011-crowd-shots/">Social Mes</a>s NYE party in Atlanta (so much fun!) then to Glendale, AZ to watch the Auburn Tigers become NATIONAL CHAMPS and attended my first NBA basketball game with seats right behind the bench. I sure have started off 2011 right!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcPlz4GGcI/AAAAAAAAAEM/vqNNbmNk3K4/s1600/social+mess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcPlz4GGcI/AAAAAAAAAEM/vqNNbmNk3K4/s200/social+mess.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NYE</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcP0hDJrDI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/N9kbZ796tO8/s1600/036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcP0hDJrDI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/N9kbZ796tO8/s200/036.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Auburn wins the National Championship!! WDE!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcQLrW_YMI/AAAAAAAAAEU/GZMzh2jLxCQ/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcQLrW_YMI/AAAAAAAAAEU/GZMzh2jLxCQ/s200/013.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First NBA game</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
So with my recent come-and-go lifestyle, I didn't do a lot of grocery shopping. This meant I had to get creative with what I had in the apartment, which then lead to my repeated use (and new obsession) with <a href="http://www.earthgrains.com/Bread.aspx?v=thinBunsWholeWheat">Earthgrains' Whole Wheat Thin Buns</a>. These babies are 100% whole grain and only 100 calories. In my effort to eat in as much as possible, these came in handy for my lunch and snack, and sometimes breakfast and dinner!<br />
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Here are some ideas of how I've used my new obsession! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcJH9DApZI/AAAAAAAAAD8/uszDgoRCrEI/s1600/banana_pb_honey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="115" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcJH9DApZI/AAAAAAAAAD8/uszDgoRCrEI/s200/banana_pb_honey.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My pre-workout snack: 2 Tbsp of <a href="http://www.betternpeanutbutter.com/index.php">Better'n Peanut Butter</a>, Honey & Half Banana cut into pieces on Whole Wheat Thin Bun</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcJyYfynSI/AAAAAAAAAEA/bJtZt2-9UCo/s1600/egg+sandwich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="110" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcJyYfynSI/AAAAAAAAAEA/bJtZt2-9UCo/s200/egg+sandwich.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner: Egg Sandwich (3 egg whites scrambled, no salt added diced tomatoes from the can, spinach, 1 Tbsp. of hummus, a few dashes of Texas Pete and pepper on Whole Wheat Thin Bun)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcKYntZVPI/AAAAAAAAAEE/bGSHjaroCB0/s1600/grilled+cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="102" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcKYntZVPI/AAAAAAAAAEE/bGSHjaroCB0/s200/grilled+cheese.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner: Veggie Egg Scramble with Grilled Cheese (Whole Wheat Thin Bun & 1 slice of Swiss cheese) and Hummus Dip (Hummus + Texas Pete+ Paprika = Delicious Hummus Dip!) PS-I know this is not the best picture, but I assure you, it was good!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcL-YUKejI/AAAAAAAAAEI/y6NDozLwA_0/s1600/veggie+burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="101" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TTcL-YUKejI/AAAAAAAAAEI/y6NDozLwA_0/s200/veggie+burger.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch/Dinner: Veggie Burger with Sliced Tomatoes, Spinach, 2% Swiss Cheese & 1 Tbsp. of Hummus on Whole Wheat Thin Bun</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>What must have item do you keep in your pantry or refrigerator?</b>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-48356573362107577372010-12-30T09:23:00.000-08:002010-12-30T09:33:54.666-08:00Metro Fitness Gets its GrouponIf you haven't heard, <a href="http://www.metrofitness.com/">Metro Fitness</a> is featured on <a href="http://www.groupon.com/">Groupon</a> TODAY (Thursday, December 30) with a special of $40 for a one month membership (usually $69 per month for a single). For those of you who do not know what Groupon is, go to their website at <a href="http://www.groupon.com/">http://www.groupon.com/</a>. They offer daily deals at your local area businesses (they just recently came to Montgomery) and you can sign up to get on their e-mail to receive an em-mail of their daily deals. It's genius!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRt7Zb2yeiI/AAAAAAAAADE/9x0Eze-w0S4/s1600/metro+fitness.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRt7Zb2yeiI/AAAAAAAAADE/9x0Eze-w0S4/s200/metro+fitness.bmp" width="150" /></a></div><br />
Some might think I am writing this as a PR move for Metro, and know I have a bias to the place since my mother is Metro's general manager. Well this presumption is somewhat true, but I also have a love and loyalty for this place and WANT to toot its horn. And it felt like an appropriate time to do so.<br />
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My mother has been with Metro Fitness since it opened in 1999, which means I've been there for the same amount of time. I've grown up there, and it's hard to imagine my life without it. Aside from my family, Metro Fitness will be one of the main things I will miss when or IF I ever leave Montgomery. It is not only a place to work out, but it is like a family-the staff and the members. Great friendships have started here. Relationships have sprung into marriage from this house of fitness. It's more than just a place to come work out.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRt-zZmekRI/AAAAAAAAADI/bCpkT12lJhk/s1600/metro+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRt-zZmekRI/AAAAAAAAADI/bCpkT12lJhk/s200/metro+family.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Instructors and Metro members gather for the Metro Christmas Party!</td></tr>
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"Metro Fitness has some of the most talented staff and instructors in the country." I will swear by that statement! I have heard people who have been to gyms all over the country say that Metro is one of the greatest gyms they have ever been to. Though we're not in a "big" city, I believe our classes are some of the most creative and challenging out there. Every instructor and personal trainer strives to give you your money's worth for every class and give you the best work out possible. They are never satisfied with status quo and are constantly researching to find new work outs to mix it up.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRzCR7HX1fI/AAAAAAAAADQ/ZpSgDm-IlXI/s1600/instructors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRzCR7HX1fI/AAAAAAAAADQ/ZpSgDm-IlXI/s200/instructors.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the fabulous instructors & staff! </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Do you push yourself when you work out on your own? I know I let myself off the hook too easy when a work out I'm doing is challenging. This is where instructors and personal trainers strive to push the member and clients, giving them the confidence to go further than they thought they could. This might mean an instructor will be hated during the class for pushing the members, but I assure you that she will be loved afterwords when the results can be seen! Ok, maybe I'm saying this from personal experience :) <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRt_CEw-z6I/AAAAAAAAADM/QlWxkKADUDQ/s1600/turboween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRt_CEw-z6I/AAAAAAAAADM/QlWxkKADUDQ/s200/turboween.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's me having some Turboween fun! Every year for Halloween, instructors and members dress up for Halloween. <br />
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<div align="left"><span style="font-size: small;">I spoke with someone who just started coming to Metro and she said, "This place just feels homie to me, and I love that. There are so many classes throughout the day which is great for my schedule." Even though I do not work for Metro, I still felt a sense of pride when I heard that. </span></div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left"><span style="font-size: small;">With 2011 fast approaching, resolutions will be in full force with many of them including to "lose weight." Without sounding too cliche, Metro is a place where you can feel comfortable and develop not only healthy habits, but friendships as well. I encourage anyone who is reading this and who is not a member to at least try it out. My New Year's resolution is to continue to get healthy and stick with it! I hope to see you at Metro Fitness!</span></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-12697970097081682142010-12-28T14:21:00.000-08:002010-12-28T14:21:04.723-08:00SweatilatesPilates intrigues me. It always has. As a person who follows celebrities entirely too closely, I noticed that most of them would answer the question of "how they stay in shape" with "pilates." I also noticed many of the people who took pilates at <a href="http://www.metrofitness.com/">Metro Fitness</a>, and especially those who were pilates instructors, had these long, lean bodies that I was envious of!<br />
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One of my mom's dear friends, Denise Swann, has always been in shape and had a great figure, but I noticed she was starting to get that long, lean look about her too. Come to find out, she started doing pilates and raved about the Sweatilates class that Pam Carson taught at <a href="http://www.metrofitness.com/">Metro Fitness</a> on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Because it was pilates class and I didn't have to pay extra for the class, I was all about trying it out! <br />
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What an experience that first class was! Sweatilates really did make me sweat! As an onlooker, the pilates moves appear so easy. Yet, my legs had never burned like they did in that first class. I was so sore the next day and decided I needed to keep going back for more! Give me that long, lean look, please!<br />
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<em>Side Note: I have literally been trying to write this blog about Sweatilates for about 3 weeks now. I kept trying to explain things through words, but felt it was boring and couldn't illustrate what we do only through my writing. After tons of writing, erasing and re-writing, I decided to go with pictures and illustrations. Please also note that I do not know the names of any of these exercises, but try to explain them as best as possible :)</em><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRoOIyNqGbI/AAAAAAAAACw/ENlzR5_U60I/s1600/Sweatilates+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRoOIyNqGbI/AAAAAAAAACw/ENlzR5_U60I/s200/Sweatilates+2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is an exercise that lifts your butt, works your core and gets those pesky inner thighs. As you might notice, form is key! No matter what you do in pilates, you must always check that your shoulders are back and relaxed, you back is straight, and your tummy and butt are tucked. (This can be incorporated in other workouts and applied in your every day life ,whether you are sitting at your desk or putting up the dishes)</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRohAC2EhDI/AAAAAAAAAC8/RZN-HxrLBo0/s1600/Sweatilates+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRohAC2EhDI/AAAAAAAAAC8/RZN-HxrLBo0/s320/Sweatilates+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This exercise looks so simple, but it isn't! You must keep that tummy tucked to protect that lower back! This is another great move for your core, butt and inner thighs. That standing leg (the one not off to the side) also gets a good work out.</td></tr>
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</div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRoO4diJJzI/AAAAAAAAAC0/x3JFVj_jyY4/s1600/Sweatilates+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRoO4diJJzI/AAAAAAAAAC0/x3JFVj_jyY4/s320/Sweatilates+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here we look like ballerinas. The bar is there for our stability, but if you notice, this exercise is performed on our tippy toes, which really burns those quads and calves. Even keeping your arms up in this exercise is challenging!<br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRoQauhzM3I/AAAAAAAAAC4/Cg-kQzXelWk/s1600/Sweatilates+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRoQauhzM3I/AAAAAAAAAC4/Cg-kQzXelWk/s320/Sweatilates+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I love this move! It works on your stability as well as working your core (especially obliques), legs and especially those saddle bags! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRonJijf9RI/AAAAAAAAADA/LHcBBk7Wc6k/s1600/Sweatilates+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRonJijf9RI/AAAAAAAAADA/LHcBBk7Wc6k/s320/Sweatilates+7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well there I am in all my glory with no make up at 5:30 a.m. We use these 1 lbs. weights for working our upper body. Don't let their tiny size fool you...when done with a lot of repititions, you can feel the burn! <br />
For this particular exercise, I simply keep my upper arms aligned with my shoulders and move the weights back and forth from underneath my arm pit and then make my arms straight (palms facing down). This really works my shoulders and biceps. </td></tr>
</tbody></table> <div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>This is another example of a time when you must be aware of your posture. (back straight, core is tight, my shoulders are down and relaxed so not to hurt my neck). </em></span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">So you've seen a few shots from our Sweatilates class. I love our little class, and I can see results in every single person who has taken this class. We can complain at times, but Pam pushes us and we get the job done. If you are looking for something different to do in your workout routine, I encourage you to try Pilates! It will not only help give you that long lean look, but it will help you in your other work outs and your posture. </div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-68664128921698819552010-12-27T12:59:00.000-08:002010-12-27T13:02:15.291-08:00An Epiphany from Being Locked IN: No ExcusesAs many of you saw on my Facebook status, I was locked IN my apartment this past Wednesday morning. And yes, that would be IN, not out (Do I see an inquisitive look on your face?) My roomie and I were having troubles with our doorknob, and we had called maintenance a couple of times to come to our apartment and fix it. Well they didn't show up in time...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRjgW_4kmJI/AAAAAAAAACg/tfj0WQa1dW8/s1600/door+knob.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRjgW_4kmJI/AAAAAAAAACg/tfj0WQa1dW8/s1600/door+knob.bmp" /></a></div><br />
<strong>A Broken Door Knob...</strong><br />
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I awoke at 5:15 a.m. and dragged myself out of bed to head to Cardio Knockout. I had psyched myself up for this class and knew I had to go since I would not have time to go to the gym after work. I headed for the door and gave a little smile when I looked at the clock and realized I was going to be a little early. (I am almost NEVER early to a 5:30 a.m. class) As I grabbed the door knob and unlocked it, nothing happened. The door knob simply turned, but the door did not open. I continued to try for the next 10 minutes as my hands turned red and blisters emerged from the constant twisting. It was official...I was locked IN my apartment. <br />
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<strong>To Work Out or Not To Work Out: That is the Question</strong><br />
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So I was stuck in my apartment. I had two options here: Either I would get a work out in that day or I would not. With the amount of food I knew I would consume that day (office Christmas party) and the coming days of Christmas and lack of exercising, I knew I must get <em>some</em> form of work out in. I decided to do my own form of Cardio Knockout in my room and add a few moves I learned in Sweatilates. <br />
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I moved my bed to make room, put my iPod on and went to town. I surprised myself with how much I could make myself sweat while just running in place! My cardio came from jumping jacks, mountain climbers and jumproping (without the rope). I did push-ups, wall sits, the Pilates sit-up, lunges and planks for my "toning" sections. I even took some heavy candles and turned them into "free weights" to work my triceps, shoulders and lats. (All of these ideas came from the multiple classes I have taken at Metro Fitness) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRjgfoXEzvI/AAAAAAAAACk/6Nq-W7WUqCc/s1600/pilates+sit+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRjgfoXEzvI/AAAAAAAAACk/6Nq-W7WUqCc/s200/pilates+sit+up.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRj2UMYPVEI/AAAAAAAAACs/IDkyUnorGlk/s1600/lunges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRj2UMYPVEI/AAAAAAAAACs/IDkyUnorGlk/s1600/lunges.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>The Epiphany:</strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">After I did these moves for about 40 minutes, I was tired and sweaty. It's amazing what can be done from your home! This made me realize that there should never be an excuse for not working out-even when I am traveling or the gym is closed, or in my case when you cannot get out of your apartment. There is always a way to get some form of exercise, whether it be 10 minutes to an hour. SOMETHING is better than NOTHING. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I would like to say that this epiphany will make me do something every day, but it won't. However, when I find myself making excuses to not work out, I will simply remember that morning of being forced to work out in my room and realize I must do something physical, whether it be at the gym, outside or in my house.</div><br />
<strong>My Investments...</strong><br />
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Since being locked in my house, there are a few things I've decided to invest in whenever I feel like working out from home...<br />
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1. Free Weights-These are easy to store and can be used for a variety of work outs. You can even lift these while watching TV!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRje7Q0KErI/AAAAAAAAACY/Ii1_6YYrvk4/s1600/small+weights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="152" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRje7Q0KErI/AAAAAAAAACY/Ii1_6YYrvk4/s200/small+weights.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small Free Weights (I will probably purchase 3 & 5 lbs. free weights)<br />
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</div><div align="left"></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div align="left">2. Resistance Bands- These also are easy to store and can be used for more resistance work outs. This can also be used while watching TV!</div> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRjgI30EbEI/AAAAAAAAACc/T8wV5c4KDdM/s1600/bicep+curls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRjgI30EbEI/AAAAAAAAACc/T8wV5c4KDdM/s200/bicep+curls.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bicep curls using resistance bands. (Hot shorts and camel toe, I know)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>3. Push Ups- Ok I know this isn't something you can purchase, but I do think you should invest your time into these. Push-ups can work every part of your body: your chest, shoulders, abs, back, legs, butt, etc. If you are pushed for time, I would recommend to do a few sets of these. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">*I would challenge you to see how many "boy" push ups you can do before you start with the "girl" push ups. My max when I first started was 15 in a row. Now I'm up to 25! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRjzS_FC6tI/AAAAAAAAACo/ItZIhfHY84w/s1600/push+ups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="124" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TRjzS_FC6tI/AAAAAAAAACo/ItZIhfHY84w/s200/push+ups.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>How the story ends....</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">After waking up my roomie at 6:30 a.m. and calling the 24-hour maintenance line, I talked to someone on the phone who taught me how to "jimmy rig" my door open. It worked. We were free! The maintenance man finally showed up about 15 minutes until I had to go to work. We now have a new door knob and all is well at the Sims/Richards household! </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Do you have any suggestions for anymore at home work outs?</div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-56958581889177788812010-12-10T13:09:00.000-08:002010-12-10T13:53:37.894-08:00Feel Good Friday: Betty White Inspiration<em>This post has nothing to do with food, working out or losing weight. I do have some in the works though that I will be posting soon! </em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKRUkg7EEI/AAAAAAAAACA/Wbfxd5fCZPU/s1600/betty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKRUkg7EEI/AAAAAAAAACA/Wbfxd5fCZPU/s200/betty.jpg" width="160" /></a></div><br />
Last night, the roomie (Miss Lucy Sims) and I curled up on the couch with our glass(es) of wine and leopard snuggie and watched Barbara Walter's Oprah interview and <a href="http://abc.go.com/watch/barbara-walters-presents-the-10-most-fascinating-people-of-2010/SH55100804/VD55101835/barbara-walters-presents-the-10-most-fascinating-people-of-2010">The 10 Most Fascinating People of 2010.</a> What riveting television! :) <br />
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Through the two hours of intriguing celebrity interviews, Betty White stood out to me the most. Now I am biased because I absolutely adore her and I love the Golden Girls. Can you believe she is 88 1/2 years old and still going strong? How amazing is that!?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKSjuSzGlI/AAAAAAAAACE/KjHI9mYD3Nk/s1600/gg.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKSjuSzGlI/AAAAAAAAACE/KjHI9mYD3Nk/s1600/gg.bmp" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you for being friend.</td></tr>
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<em>Side Note: As a little girl, I had to secretly watch The Golden Girls. My parents forbade me to watch the show because of the many sexual inuendos coming from Blanche Devereaux. These sexual references went right over my head, and I still thought it was entertaining!</em><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKSqXGlkeI/AAAAAAAAACI/Pt7Va7QZIOk/s1600/sophia.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="159" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKSqXGlkeI/AAAAAAAAACI/Pt7Va7QZIOk/s200/sophia.bmp" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sophia: By far one of the best characters. </td></tr>
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In Betty's interview, Babs asked if she had a philosophy about life. She responded, "Well I hate to be square, but I try to get the most out of what I'm living now. My beloved mother and father always said 'I never want to hear you say oh that was so wonderful. I didn't appreciate it at the time.' Realize right now when it's special as it's happening." <br />
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When I heard her wonderful, yet simple philosphy, I started thinking about my life and those "I didn't appreciate it at the time" moments. I realized that I quite often have these moments! So often I catch myself saying, "Once I do this, things will get better..." or "If I can just get out of Montgomery, things will be better." I also often look back at my days at Auburn and wish I would have realized how wonderful it was there. I wish I would have soaked in so much more than I did. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKSxkixAvI/AAAAAAAAACM/v6fWz-T_b5A/s1600/purse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKSxkixAvI/AAAAAAAAACM/v6fWz-T_b5A/s1600/purse.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I carry my purse like Sophia.</td></tr>
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To learn from that, I've got to focus on the NOW. Right now, at 23, my life is not perfect. I am at a beginner level in my job and still sometimes do the duties of an intern, yet I am working for a great company, learning a new industry and am so blessed to even have a job. I am still in Montgomery, though I said I would be long gone from this town after college. However, God has put me close to my family and with new friends that have truly blessed my life. I don't make as much money as I would like, but I still live comfortably and usually don't go without.<br />
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There is SO much to enjoy in my life at this time. This is probably the most care-free time of my life, and a time to take opportunities and truly enjoy what God has given me-the good AND the bad. <br />
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<strong>My challenge to myself and to you is to enjoy the NOW</strong>, despite if this is a low time in your life or the happiest you have ever been. The low times are when we look to God, dig deep and learn what we are truly made of. It will only make you stronger. In the highs, we realize how God truly blesses us, and we must remember to be thankful for them. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKVyNGPlxI/AAAAAAAAACQ/Bv7VDqC9NZU/s1600/stay+golden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TQKVyNGPlxI/AAAAAAAAACQ/Bv7VDqC9NZU/s1600/stay+golden.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy Friday to everyone!!</div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-91147733276620664282010-11-24T13:15:00.000-08:002010-11-24T13:15:35.496-08:00FOOD TIPS: What I've Figure Out Along the Way<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TO1NIepe5mI/AAAAAAAAABw/YMrB00Nm0tY/s1600/vegetables.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TO1NIepe5mI/AAAAAAAAABw/YMrB00Nm0tY/s200/vegetables.bmp" width="200" /></a></div>With me posting these "tips" the day before Thanksgiving, you're probably thinking it has something to do with tips of how to control yourself on the day known for stuffing our faces, and of course being thankful. Well...it's not. I honestly have no health tips for Thanksgiving except to pray for self-control. I personally will be wearing pants with elastic in them for tomorrow's Turkey Day food and festivities. Hey, a girl's got to be comfortable!<br />
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Some, if not all, of the tips I am sharing with you are probably things you have already heard. That's fine. Just ignore this post. But here are some things I've picked up along the way thanks to Heather Hagan, my mom and things I've discovered on my own.<br />
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<strong>1. Vegetables: Add spices for flavor & few calories</strong><br />
-I love to add lemon pepper and cumin to my vegetables when I saute them. Sometimes I even add goat cheese or Gorgonzola to them for an extra kick!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TO1OHvnE0pI/AAAAAAAAAB8/mEP2Q_4buKg/s1600/lemon+pepper.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TO1OHvnE0pI/AAAAAAAAAB8/mEP2Q_4buKg/s1600/lemon+pepper.bmp" /></a></div><br />
<strong>2. Frozen Fruit & Vegetables: Eat 'em & Cook 'em!</strong><br />
-I know it is usually better to buy fresh, but frozen fruits and vegetables weigh less on your checkbooks and provide most of the same nutrients. The frozen vegetables can be thrown in a steamer or sauteed on the stove to make for a quick side. I am also able to get the berries that I crave so often when they are not in season. <br />
*I add frozen blueberries to my yogurt for breakfast & use them as a snack by themselves or add a little dry cereal.<br />
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<strong>3. Plain Greek Yogurt: Replace this with your regular yogurt</strong><br />
-I will admit the consistency and taste of Greek yogurt is hard to get accustomed to--especially for all of us who are so accustomed to regular yogurt. However, the benefit of this yogurt is you can ADD and CONTROL the amount of calories and sugar you put in. <a href="http://www.fageusa.com/products.aspx#/zeroPercent/Plain">Fage</a> Total 0% Plain Greek Yogurt contains 90 calories, 7 grams of sugar and 15 grams of protein! This leaves you room to add some things!<br />
<em>*For my Greek yogurt breakfast, I add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, 1/2 cup of Kashi Heart Healthy cereal, 1/4 cup and 2 tbsp. of </em><a href="http://www.allaboutagave.com/"><em>Agave Nectar</em></a><em>.</em><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TO1NYMbs5PI/AAAAAAAAAB0/LBHUvvFoy7U/s1600/fage.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TO1NYMbs5PI/AAAAAAAAAB0/LBHUvvFoy7U/s1600/fage.bmp" /></a></div><br />
<strong>4. Agave Nectar: Use this in place of sugars and sweeteners</strong><br />
-I was introduced to this thanks to Heather. I will admit, this one is a bit pricey, but it can be used in place of sugar and sweeteners. I have only used it to sweeten my yogurt and oatmeal, but I know it can be used for a lot more things when cooking and baking!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TO1NjXDzlOI/AAAAAAAAAB4/ZdChvTE1Trg/s1600/agave.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TO1NjXDzlOI/AAAAAAAAAB4/ZdChvTE1Trg/s1600/agave.bmp" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><strong>5. When you eat a carb, pair it with a protein</strong>. <br />
-This is another one I learned thanks to Heather! For example...I was eating a whole wheat "thin slice" (100 calories) only for a snack between breakfast and lunch. Now I add 2 tbsp. of peanut butter for protein. <br />
<em>*Some great, natural Peanut Butter I have found is </em><a href="http://www.betternpeanutbutter.com/index.php"><em>Better N</em></a><em> (100 cal./2 grams of fat per 2 tbsp.) and </em><a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/"><em>Peanut Butter & Co.</em></a><em> (180 cal./14 grams of fat per 2 tbsp.) Peanut Butter & Co. has a variety of flavors as well! I personally like Cinnamon Raisin Swirl and White Chocolate Wonderful. </em><br />
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<strong>6. Be creative with your marinades</strong><br />
-I picked this up from my mother, Leigh Anne, who is the queen of creating delicious marinades for chicken and fish. Sometimes, it is not necessary to go to the store and you can throw together whatever you have in your pantry.<br />
<em>*My marinade for salmon: 1/2 cup of Ken's Walnut Raspberry Vinaigrette, a few dashes of lemon juice, Worcester sauce, lemon pepper and Salmon seasoning. Stir together, pour over salmon and add Gorgonzola cheese after marinade is poured.</em> (All of this came from what I had in my pantry)<br />
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I hope some of these are useful! Do you have any tips that you have discovered?Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-73925014141564607272010-11-22T09:54:00.000-08:002010-11-22T09:58:26.848-08:00Food for the Broken Hearted<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TOqsufyEhOI/AAAAAAAAABo/epvPIyvR_CA/s1600/heart.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TOqsufyEhOI/AAAAAAAAABo/epvPIyvR_CA/s1600/heart.bmp" /></a></div>I have not posted anything in about two weeks, and honestly I haven't felt much like writing--at least writing something for the public to read. The last two weeks have been incredibly hard for me emotionally. There was an ending to a relationship, which brought a change in my life that I did not want, but knew needed to happen for the both of us.<br />
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A broken heart and the many emotions that comes with it can reveal your addictions and your go-to crutch for handling stress. My ultimate goal was to give it all to the Lord, however, the first thing I went to was food. I believe that most girls who have endured heartbreaks feel entitled to binge on break up food: icrecream, chocolate, cookies, etc. And I was one of those girls!<br />
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<a href="http://californiayogurtkraze.com/">California Yogurt Kraze </a>was my first stop after it happened. I filled my cup up with macedamian nut cookie and birthday cake yogurt followed by a mound of Reese's pieces, cookie dough and cheese cake bites. (This might sound disgusting put all together, but I promise it hit the spot) Knowing that I had an excuse to binge eat, I continued eating not necessarily all bad food, but <strong>a lot</strong> of semi-healthy food with some junk sprinkled in here and there. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TOqs2IxUnHI/AAAAAAAAABs/H7PLeNXTtZE/s1600/IMG00039-20101108-1700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TOqs2IxUnHI/AAAAAAAAABs/H7PLeNXTtZE/s200/IMG00039-20101108-1700.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">My tiramisu indulgence at La Madeleine. </span></em></div><br />
At the end of the second day of what I called "eating my feelings," I allowed myself a big hunk of tiramisu from <a href="http://www.lamadeleine.com/">La Madeleine</a> in Atlanta (totally worth the calories) and homemade nachos--like Mama G's does it! :) I then made up my mind that it was time to get a grip, get my will power back and put my energy into working out. I thought I was such a strong woman who could take control of my emotions and feelings. HA! I was so wrong...<br />
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By the week's end, I had indulged in a lot of red wine, sweets and fast food (I managed to eat Chick-fil-A AND Hardee's all within a 24-hour period). I realized that I just couldn't tell myself "you have two days to get over this" and that this was going to take time. <br />
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I also had to figure out the healthy way to handle all that was going on in my life without going overboard one way or the other. Believe me, it's still a work in progress! I'm trying to focus more on handing these overwhelming feelings over to God and know what I am doing now is making me a healthier person, mentally and physically.<br />
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"Consider if pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trails of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking in anything." James 1: 2-4Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-9301105499876500922010-11-05T13:36:00.000-07:002010-11-05T13:36:07.973-07:00The Boyfriend Layer Bounce BackWith a weekend of food and fun with my man friend, I must admit that the healthiest thing I consumed the entire weekend was a banana smushed between peanut butter, honey and two pieces of bread (it was at least wheat bread!). In one day, I consumed a Chick-Fil-A chicken biscuits and hash rounds, fried wings, hot wings, beer, potato salad and a late night breakfast of biscuits, grits and sausage links. My only excuse is that it was a great football watching day, and it was Halloween. Yes, when I do it bad, I go all out. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TNRm9QKbaDI/AAAAAAAAABc/KSINkPat2Io/s1600/chick-fil-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TNRm9QKbaDI/AAAAAAAAABc/KSINkPat2Io/s1600/chick-fil-a.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<em>Side Note: I did deny a paid offer for a McDonald's McFlurry while in McDonald's. I opted for fat-free yogurt from <a href="http://californiayogurtkraze.com/">California Yogurt Kraze</a>. That's got to count for something! </em><br />
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After he left Tuesday morning, I was exhausted and bloated. I knew my lack of exercise and healthy eating was the cause my non-existent energy level. My initial thoughts brought me back to the place where I've been so many times: experiencing defeat and disappointment. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TNRo0UlZvgI/AAAAAAAAABg/tgfvH2bffZA/s1600/stomach.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TNRo0UlZvgI/AAAAAAAAABg/tgfvH2bffZA/s1600/stomach.bmp" /></a></div><br />
That Tuesday afternoon after work, it took all I had to get myself up to the gym. As I dressed, I could feel the tightness of my tank top around my stomach..or as I like to refer to it at times, my "food baby." I kept looking at my bed thinking about the sleep I needed. Despite my longing for the coziness of a down comforter and a mattress that feels like heaven, something in my head kept thinking about how I would feel AFTER my work out. I knew from experience that after a work out that I have much more energy and feel better about myself. The "after" thought pushed me to the gym.<br />
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With my mega indulgences this past weekend, I noticed my self control could not fully recover as the week went on. I allowed myself to sneak leftover Halloween candy throughout the day and munch around on snacks. However, slowly but surely, I am regaining my self control, cut back on indulgences and have been working out hard. <br />
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Even though I complained about tighter tanks and a low energy level, I must admit that my indulges with my man friend were totally worth it. It is NO fun when you are constantly fretting about what you are putting in your body or counting calories --especially for him. Now, I'm looking ahead and concentrating on eating healthy and working out. Maybe the next time we spend a weekend together, I'll have a little more self control. :) <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TNRprl7NK7I/AAAAAAAAABk/ewqOqqUxBXw/s1600/charles+and+i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="171" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TNRprl7NK7I/AAAAAAAAABk/ewqOqqUxBXw/s200/charles+and+i.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We had a good time as Charlie & Maverick (Top Gun) for Halloween!<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Does anybody else know what I'm going through with the boyfriend layer?Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-91814601980920673902010-10-29T14:54:00.000-07:002010-10-29T14:54:37.526-07:00The Boyfriend Layer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TMswaFTojVI/AAAAAAAAABY/FFQ-RIhvNB8/s1600/couple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TMswaFTojVI/AAAAAAAAABY/FFQ-RIhvNB8/s200/couple.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><br />
Almost everyone has heard of the boyfriend layer. It's that extra layer of fat you seem to put on when you are in a relationship with someone. I wanted to share this article that I found in <a href="http://www.womenshealthmag.com/weight-loss/best-way-to-lose-weight">Women's Health Magazine</a> about relationships and weight gain-particularly in women. Whether you're just starting to date someone or in love, the "boyfriend layer" seems to be inevitable.<br />
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This weekend might be my biggest challenge yet. The challenge has to do with a boy...who I like... and have been dating long distance for about nine months now. (We won't go into the complicated details, but you get the gist) On the few weekends we do get to see each other, one of the main things we do is EAT! And boy can we eat. He has an appetite like I've never seen, and mine seems to almost keep up with his when he's around. The little will-power and healthy eating rules I have goes out the window when we are together. For example....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TMsqZOpCVBI/AAAAAAAAABU/OqcSqUdt2Pw/s1600/food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" nx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TMsqZOpCVBI/AAAAAAAAABU/OqcSqUdt2Pw/s200/food.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Yes, this is MY plate at Fox Bros. BBQ in Atlanta. I ate about half of this and had to lay down the rest of the day because I was in a food coma</em></span>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Going out to eat is a fun way we connect and have a good time, and it seems like pigging out is even more fun when done together. We're always looking for new restaurants to go to and see what kind of tastey food we can find. Whenever I'm confronted with an unhealthy food choice, I always think "Why not eat it? He's just going to be in town for a couple of days." Then once he leaves, I'm left with feelings of food remorse and tighter pants. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I know cooking is always an option. We've attempted to cook, but it always ends up being more of a hassel and takes time away from the little time we have together. Maybe if we ever live in the same city it will be different...maybe. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Despite my recent change in eating habits, I'm still that hungry girl that loves junk food. I'm expecting the worst and hoping for the best this weekend...as I think about the Indian food I'm going to indulge myself in tonight :) </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I'll report back next week.</div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-26545332885936171542010-10-25T17:14:00.000-07:002010-10-25T17:14:24.946-07:00What's For Dinner? Homemade Potato Wedges<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TMYZJbu_uBI/AAAAAAAAABQ/d3ZyuCi6NJk/s1600/potato+wedges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" nx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TMYZJbu_uBI/AAAAAAAAABQ/d3ZyuCi6NJk/s200/potato+wedges.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>If you're like me, I love salt and I absolutely love fries. However, since I have been doing Body ReBoot, I have cut fries out of my life. The other night I was craving some fries and decided to make some myself. What the heck...I had potatoes, and they were going to go to waste if I didn't eat them ASAP.<br />
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After making these, forget McDonald's fries! These homemade potato wedges are super easy to make AND delicous. I found the recipe in <a href="http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/quick-recipes/dinner/crunchy-baked-french-fries/">Fitness</a> Magazineback in May. I know this isn't the best picture, but I promise they are a tastey treat and much better for you than fast food or restaurant fries. Since I took this recipe from Fitness, just click on the link and follow the recipe!<br />
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*1 serving=8 wedges (155 calories, 4g protein, 22g carbohydrate, 6g fat (1.5g saturated), 3g fiber)<br />
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Can't beat that! Enjoy! :)Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-16400074328807474942010-10-25T16:50:00.000-07:002010-10-25T16:54:02.104-07:00Seeing Results...Without Being Perfect<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TMDqTO2xSkI/AAAAAAAAABM/W3qrg3Fs_NY/s1600/scale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" nx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TMDqTO2xSkI/AAAAAAAAABM/W3qrg3Fs_NY/s200/scale.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I have probably been a little obcessive of my eating and exercise routine the past couple of weeks. I started to see results and feel better, and I did not want to lose my momentum. Therefore, I strove for perfection in my eating as well as consistently working out..and working hard while there. However, as you've noticed, I had a few slips and indulgences. But like Heather told me, I'm 23! I'm having fun! (Sometimes I forget how old..uhh..young I am). As I've been reminded multiple times, it's about balance. But back to my results...<br />
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I stepped on the scales on Monday and walked away, not wanting to know the results. Heather e-mailed them to me the next day. Boy was I in shock!<br />
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<u>9/27/2010</u><br />
149.2 lbs<br />
29.9% bf<br />
52.2% h2o<br />
99.2 lbm<br />
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<u>10/4/2010</u><br />
150 lbs<br />
31.2% bf<br />
51.2% h2o<br />
98.0 lbm<br />
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<u><span style="color: black;">10/18/2010</span></u><br />
<span style="color: black;">148.8 lbs --> </span><span style="color: red;">Lost 1.2 lbs.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">27.3% bf --> </span><span style="color: red;">3.9% bf lost</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">54.2% h2o --> </span><span style="color: red;">Increased h2o by 3%</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">102.6 lbm --> </span><span style="color: red;">Gained 4.6 lbm</span><br />
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Yes, I am very excited about my progress! I hope people don't take this at me tooting my own horn (which I kind of am), but I want to prove a point. This may be more of me talking to myself more than anything, but there is still something to prove. Despite my eating a piece of pizza late at night, eating another piece the following week, eating chips and drinking margaritas, I started fresh the next day and continued to exercise. Recovering from a bad day or night of eating has been my biggest downfall in years' past. I let myself down and I let my mistakes keep getting me down. After multiple letdowns, I would continue on my bad eating streak and lose interest in working out as hard or even at all.<br />
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Just like everything in life, I am a work in progress, and I can't expect all of my habits and routines to change instantly. I am motivated by my results, but feel a sense of relief that I can still enjoy some food (and indulge!) and still see results. My goal in this three month process is now not only seeing results in my body, but also in my drive to keep going, even when I fail and don't stand up to temptation. I must keep going!Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-5036987624944008462010-10-22T07:41:00.000-07:002010-10-22T07:41:45.698-07:00A Little Indulgence Never Hurts<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Let me reiterate again how much I love pizza, chips and margaritas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has been a while since my last post, and I know everyone who is reading this has been on the edge of their seat waiting to hear how I held up to temptation. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me ease your suspense…</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PIZZA NIGHT</strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The dreaded pizza night came first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After feverishly running around to get a workout in, I did all the cardio and weights I could in a 45 minute time span and zipped to LIFE group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew post work out was the best time to eat “bad” food since my metabolism would be up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As soon as I entered the house, I knew the pizza was there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wondered into the kitchen to see a large pepperoni and cheese pizza and cheesy bread! All I kept thinking was “come to mama.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I picked up my plate, charged forward and looked at the many small and large pieces of pepperoni pizza in front of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I shut the voice of the junk food lover out and listened to my get healthy voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I picked the smallest piece I could find and took one piece of cheesy bread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I devoured the piece of pizza, but only allowed myself to eat half of the cheesy bread…boy was it cheesy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We then started the study, and I knew I had survived the temptation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whew! One test of the will-power down, one to go!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>CHIPS & MARGS</strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The following day, I was almost guilt free from eating pizza the night before, but I knew that night was even a harder test of will power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ate a little lighter than normal as I prepared for my El Rey’s meal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of the girls I was supposed to go with bailed out, and I went with a male friend who of course could eat anything and not gain weight (no help from him with staying strong!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We ordered chips and the trio (guacamole, salsa and cheese dip).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was then time to order some adult beverages-margaritas! I politely asked for the “skinny” margarita, only to be shut down and told from the waitress that she had no idea what I was talking about. After discussing with her what I was looking for, I was told that I was thinking of a “scatch” margarita which consists of only tequila, lime juice and salt (optional).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I wanted chips and guacamole, I went with the scratch to save a few hundred calories!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The “scratch” actually wasn’t too bad, and I could not taste THAT much difference compared to the real thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While sipping my scratches (yes, scratches), I did not hold back on the chips and guac. Like the Pringles saying goes….once you pop, the fun don’t stop. In other words, there was not a lot of restraint on my part in chip eating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I was very proud to say that I only had one dip of the cheese dip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> That counts for something, right!?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I continued on to eat veggie quesadillas and chopped sweet potatoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still walked away feeling bloated, but didn’t feel as guilty as I normally would have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>THE RESULTS</strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Despite my indulgences in “bad” food over the weekend, I (for the most part) ate well the rest of the weekend and got some form of exercise in on Friday and Sunday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come Monday morning, I wasn’t feeling too bad about myself, and my side view check was not nearly as bad as I thought. (My side view check is merely turning to the side in the mirror to see if my stomach is completely bloated that morning). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That night, I had a Body Reboot meeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was none too thrilled knowing I was going to be weighed and given my fat percentage the Monday after a bad weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I kept thinking, “Why couldn’t I do this on Friday?” I knew I was going to be discouraged. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Monday night I stepped on the scales, not even wanting to know my results. The results all but shocked me…. (check in for the next post about my results from weighing)</span></div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-61043684121373305912010-10-14T14:34:00.000-07:002010-10-14T14:44:41.040-07:00Fear of Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TLd5VjvOy3I/AAAAAAAAABA/rjbBDdQIt4M/s1600/pizza.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TLd5VjvOy3I/AAAAAAAAABA/rjbBDdQIt4M/s1600/pizza.bmp" /></a></div>Over the past two weeks, I have held a tight reign on what I have put into my body. I planned almost all of my meals ahead of time by cooking, and I knew what healthy options were available when I was unable to eat at home. I was prepared. And I've seen a difference in myself beacuse of it! But what about those unexpected nights when you just don't have time to cook or you go somewhere that doesn't have any healthy options!? {Insert Kevin McAlister scream: AHHHHHHH!}<br />
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I have been in turmoil over the past day about my upcoming meals. Tonight (Thursday), I always have my LIFE group where we always eat dinner together and then do our study. I usually make it a priority to go home before and eat a protein rich snack so I will not be as hungry and eat less of the casserole that is offered. (I'm sorry, but I just think it is just poor etiquette not to eat something that is offered to you..especially when someone has spent their time and effort making it and giving it to you for free!) Pardon the rant...However instead of our normal casserole tonight, I found out we are ordering PIZZA. (Insert another Kevin McAlister scream). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TLd5ufhvIGI/AAAAAAAAABI/8gN3-R1H818/s1600/kevin.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TLd5ufhvIGI/AAAAAAAAABI/8gN3-R1H818/s1600/kevin.bmp" /></a></div><br />
Like I've said in a previous post, pizza is my favorite food and the hardest thing for me to control with the amount I eat. I can eat four pieces in one sitting like it is nothing. I know I am going to be super hungry when I arrive for dinner at LIFE group, especially when the pizza stares me in the face with all of its cheesey glory. Oh and did I mention I'm not going to be able to go home beforehand to get my protein rich snack? (I should have thought ahead and packed snacks!) What's a girl to do!? <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TLd5geWXibI/AAAAAAAAABE/5SuUukCCbPI/s1600/marg.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TLd5geWXibI/AAAAAAAAABE/5SuUukCCbPI/s1600/marg.bmp" /></a></div><br />
I've also been fearing my trip to<a href="http://burritolounge.com/"> El Rey's</a> this Friday night. It will be a great time with friends, but not a great time with food and beverages. Not only does <a href="http://burritolounge.com/">El Ray's</a> have some of the best food in Montgomery, but they also have the best margaritas! I'm just thinking about it....all of those chips, the cheese dip, guacamole..ALL OF THAT SALT! I'm getting bloated just thinking about it.<br />
<br />
I can eat chips like they are going out of style, and I can drink their margaritas like water. They go down so darn smooth! I will sit there and talk and unknowingly shove 20 chips in my mouth (taking sips of a marg in between) and then look down only to notice that I have eaten more than half the basket. Let's just say I usually have no self control when sat in front of chips and margaritas. <br />
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Because I've done so well and seen progress in my first two weeks, I fear falling off the wagon and gaining back what little weight I have lost. I have not had to face much temptation yet when it comes to food, and I have felt "safe" in my kitchen with all of my healthy food and recipes. However, I'm 23 years old. A girl's got to have fun and must enjoy some foods..just with more control. My hope is to enjoy one piece of pizza tonight and just a few chips with guacamole and "skinny" margarita tomorrow night.<br />
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I'll make sure to report back, and I promise I'll be honest. :) What are your temptations!?Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-52972378554419171052010-10-12T12:55:00.000-07:002010-10-12T13:21:13.390-07:00What's For Dinner? 30 Minutes StyleAfter a weekend of fun, little sleep and unhealthy eating, Monday was the day to get my bum back in gear! Still sluggish and struggling from the weekend, I forced myself to go to <a href="http://turbokick.com/">Turbo Kick</a> to burn off all those extra calories. Within an hour of kicks, punches and jumps, my Mary spirit was back! It was time to hit the grocery store and hit it hard. <br />
<br />
I stocked up on all my healthy food options for snacks and for dinner. I resisted the sweets section. The idea is true for me...if it's not in the house, I won't eat it! By the time I got home from the grocery store, it was a little past 7:30, and I was hungry! <br />
Here is the meal:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TLSFWUaZeOI/AAAAAAAAAA8/D_ZqKzuifB0/s1600/dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="260" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TLSFWUaZeOI/AAAAAAAAAA8/D_ZqKzuifB0/s320/dinner.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The presentation wasn't great, but it sure was delicious! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Baked salmon|Sauteed Veggies over Quinoa with Blue Cheese Crumbles and Drizzled with Light Asian Sesame Vinaigrette</em></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The 30 Minute Recipe:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>1. Baked Salmon (from Winn Dixie)</strong></div><div style="text-align: left;">*Ingredients for Marinade: Lemon Juice (1/4 cup), Worcestershire Sauce (about 6 dashes), Spicy Mustard (2 tbsp.) and Lemon Pepper (4 dashes) </div><div style="text-align: left;">-Line casserole dish w/ aluminum foil and place salmon on foil</div><div style="text-align: left;">-Combine all ingredients into small bowl and pour over salmon</div><div style="text-align: left;">-Wrap foil over salmon</div><div style="text-align: left;">-Bake in oven on 350 for 20 min. (or longer if you like yours more done!)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>2. Sauteed Veggies </strong></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Need one large cooking pot (I use a wok) to heat over stove</div><div style="text-align: left;">-Pour EVOO or Canola Oil (I use this because it is cheaper & has the same health benefits as EVOO) in bowl</div><div style="text-align: left;">-Combine fresh or frozen broccoli, spinach, & sliced squash (and any other vegetable you want!) in pot</div><div style="text-align: left;">-Let veggies heat about 5 min., moving them around, and add a few dashes of Lemon Pepper (I use this with everything!)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>3. Quinoa</strong></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Boil 11/4 cup of water</div><div style="text-align: left;">-Pour in 1 cup Quinoa in boiling water</div><div style="text-align: left;">-Reduce heat and cover for about 10 min. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><em>*To add some flavor to the veggies over quinoa, I add reduced sodium blue cheese crumbles and drizzle about 2 tbsp. of Light Asian Sesame Vinaigrette (This is a staple for me. I use it with everything!)</em></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I started cooking at about 7:40 and literally sat down to eat at 8:10. It is so easy! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Please let me know if you try this and how it turns out. I would love to hear feedback, good or bad! :)</div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-5961167027717495222010-10-09T10:49:00.000-07:002010-10-09T10:49:20.829-07:00Late Night DecisionsI have eagerly awaited this weekend. I'm getting a free trip to the beach thanks for my friend's brother getting married! I knew it was going to be a fun weekend of parties celebrating with friends. However, this past week, I've wondered how my healthy living habits would stand up to temptation. I have done so well! Could I wreck my progess over the past two weeks?!<br />
<br />
I left immediately after work to head to the beach. I had been in such a rush to get on the road that I had not even thought about dinner. I thought I was being good by bringing some snacks, but after a couple scoops of my new favorite <a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/cinnamonrasinswirl.html">Cinnamon Swirl Peanut Butter</a> and chomping on non-salted almonds, I knew I needed a meal. I have been on such a regimented schedule of eating, and my body was telling me that I needed food ASAP. <br />
<br />
In hopes of staying healthy, I bypassed all my fast food options and bought me a Kashi frozen meal when I got to the beach. It was quick and easy, and for the most part, healthy. I proceeded to the party where the open bar called my name. Yet again, in the mind set to stay healthy, I resisted beer and had two vodka sodas with lime. It was very good and very refreshing! But with such a light meal, I was feeling it after only two!<br />
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Then my group of friends advanced to someone's house. It's after 11:00 PM at this point. You know wise decisions will not be made after this time.I enjoyed a few brewskies despite the thought of extra calories and the possible beer belly I would have in the morning. My appetite was revved up at this point. They had a variety of snack (junk) food all around the kitchen. Obviously from my link, you know I have a love and weakness for junk food. The cheeze-its would not stop staring at me! <br />
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Finally, I broke down and portioned out what I thought would be a cup of cheeze its. (If I was going to eat junk food, I might as well try to stick to portion sizes!) And wow, they tasted so delicious! The salt hit my tongue and I thought how much I had missed this taste. (It sounds like a drug!)<br />
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We proceeded to enjoy ourselves, and another smell permeated throughout the house. A frozen pizza was cooking in the oven, ready to be devoured. If you don't know this, pizza is my absolute favorite food. What little will power I had left at that point could not stand up to the smell and cheesey goodness that was in front of me. So at too late of an hour, I indulged myself in a piece of pizza. <br />
<br />
I woke up this morning mad at myself for my decisions last night. I had been doing so well and I ruined it! But then I have to think, you're not perfect and this is not going to be a perfect process. Like everything in life, there will be hiccups and mistakes. This was my hiccup! Today is a new day and my healthy eating is back on track...for now.Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-41637415187837615242010-10-08T12:57:00.000-07:002011-03-15T09:27:52.366-07:00Becoming a Martha <i>Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her"</i> (Luke 10:38-42).<br />
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Today is Friday (Oct. 8). Praise the Lord! I have now been doing the Body Reboot program for one week and four days. I have done well so far with my eating and working out. Since starting the program, I have only been out to eat once and tried to stay away from bad foods (sweets, meals with preservatives, etc.) Go me!<br />
<br />
With my "healthy living," I must admit that I have noticed a tremendous difference in my energy level. I now sit down less when I am at home and have an urge to clean and tidy up the apartment. I now look at my room, living room and/or kitchen and think "This is awful. I can't stand how dirty this is. I must clean it now!" (Am I becoming my mother too?!) My laziness to doing housework has somewhat subsided! I wish I could say I watch less of my trashy TV shows since I'm not sitting around as much, but unfortunately I still watch them while I am up and cleaning. Fist pump anybody!? But I digress...<br />
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As I was puttering away in the kitchen yesterday morning, cleaning the counters and hand washing dirty cooking pots, I started wondering if I was becoming a Martha versus the Mary I have always identified with and accepted I always would be. Usually in the mornings, if I could tear myself away from the TV, I would sit, read my Bible or devotional and have quiet time. However with all of this energy, I now cook my breakfast (steel oats & scrambled egg whites), put up any dishes from the dishwasher and clean the pots and pans that I used for cooking breakfast. I then hurry along in just enough time to dress, do my make up and hair and I'm out the door. I'm doing, doing, doing and not taking a small amount of time to sit down and pray or read just a few scriptures. I now feel like Martha!<br />
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All of my life, I related to Mary. I thought if Jesus ever came to talk to me at my house, I would definitely be the one to sit and listen. Anything to get out of cleaning and cooking...just kidding! In some ways, I'm excited to become more like Martha and thankful for this new found energy and desire to do more and be more active. However, I do hope I keep some of a Mary spirit. Becoming Martha reminds me of how the older you get, the busier life becomes and the easier it is to be sucked into the world of endless to do lists, commitments, work outs and responsibilites. It's important to remember your Mary spirit and take a quiet second to reflect on the blessings God has given us.<br />
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A month down the road, I could be eating my words about all of this energy. But for now, I'll continue on my healthy routine and embrace this drive to be active. <br />
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This is Martha signing off...Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-83858223467105130522010-10-08T06:35:00.000-07:002011-03-15T09:24:47.707-07:00Pumpkin Muffins (A Must Try Recipe!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TK8emkt1ZYI/AAAAAAAAAA4/WNuLY29igew/s1600/pumpkins.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TK8emkt1ZYI/AAAAAAAAAA4/WNuLY29igew/s1600/pumpkins.bmp" /></a></div>*PLEASE NOTE THAT I CANNOT TAKE CREDIT FOR THESE DELICIOUS MUFFINS!<br />
<br />
It is that time of year where the weather is starting to cool off (finally) and we are enjoying signs of autumn. Fall decorations have been set out and new pumpkin scented candles are bought and lit to tantalize our nostrils with the scent of the season.<br />
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These pumpkin muffins remind me of fall...probably because they have to do with pumpkins. Go figure. :) My mom starting making these (and I don't know where she got the recipe) last year, and we have been hooked ever since. They have no fat in them, they are so easy to make, and they are delicious! I'm currently trying to figure out how many calories are in each muffin. Now here's the recipe:<br />
<br />
-1 can pumpkin<br />
-1 Box Spiced Cake Mix<br />
-1 Cup of Oats<br />
-3/4 Cup of Water<br />
Mix this all together, pour into muffin dish and bake on 350 for about 20 min. The time usually varies with the oven. Last time I made them, which was last week, it took about 30 min. <br />
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If someone tries this recipe, let me know how it is! I would love your feedback!<br />
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Happy Eating! :)Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-65601264347806996022010-10-06T15:11:00.000-07:002010-10-06T15:11:47.851-07:00The Nitty GrittyOk let's get down to the nitty gritty....that is my actual weight and measurments. EEEEK!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TKzvFbVo7EI/AAAAAAAAAAQ/SVuEHMaIWjo/s1600/scale.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KNlCu1icLUY/TKzvFbVo7EI/AAAAAAAAAAQ/SVuEHMaIWjo/s1600/scale.bmp" /></a></div><br />
I told you (and myself) that I was going to be honest for this blog. So here it goes.....<br />
<br />
<u>Week 1:</u><br />
149.2 lbs<br />
29.9 %bf<br />
52.2 %h2o<br />
99.2 lbm<br />
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My initial reaction focused mainly on my 29.9% body fat. Really, I am made up of 30% fat?!!? Well I immediately rushed to find out if I was considered overweight and soon found out that I was in the "normal" range. My weight was actually not as bad as I thought it was going to be and I was pretty impressed that I was almost 100 pounds of muscle. <br />
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I kept looking at the chart of what was "normal" and analyzed where I was in that range. I noticed that I was closer to the overweight side than the underweight side, and I did not like that..at all.<br />
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I knew the time had come where I was going to have to step it up and gain back some will-power and motivation. If I wanted to continue to be normal or average, I could stay content with my mediocre eating habits and exercise routine, but I am paying for this program and now held accountable for my actions, so I might as well give it 100%. <br />
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I know this all sounds cliche with my reaction, but I get super excited about something in the beginning, but like anything else, it fades quickly when the going gets tough.<br />
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I arrived at my apartment that night, still thinking about my weight and excited about what my body could possibly look like in three months. With that thought in mind, I then thought that I needed a "before" shot so I could look back and think "you look so much better now than you did then!"<br />
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Thanks to my dear roommate, Lucy, she captured in all my glory w/ my bathing suit on in our living room. And no, I will not be posting that picture! I've debated on whether to get it printed and hang it on my refrigerator to remind myself of my goals. That hasn't happened yet-mainly because I don't wantcompany to see my pastey self in a bathing suit when they walk into our kitchen. But I'll keep you posted on that one.Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4582060881646989550.post-34570227835452246332010-10-05T15:06:00.000-07:002010-10-05T15:06:50.112-07:00I Love to Eat<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I admit it. I love to eat. I have always dreamed of being one of those really skinny girls who could eat whatever she wanted and as much as she wanted. I actually used to be one of those skinny girls until this lovely thing known as a period came along. It's all been downhill from there. Thanks a lot puberty.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So you might be thinking..."Is this another get fit and healthy blog?" Well yes and no. My goal for this blog is to be completely honest with everything I eat, good and bad, and my exercise routine, or lack-there-of. Let me give you a little background...</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Being raised by a mother whose life revolves around fitness and healthy eating habits, I was constantly exposed to the latest workout trends and ate an abundance of chicken, which of course was only baked or grilled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Studio Workout (shout out to the old Studio crew!) was my second home and most of my other "mothers" who helped take care of me were work out fiends and health nuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I say that in the nicest way possible!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So it will not come to a surprise to you that one of my first outfits I sported as a toddler was a licra leotard with matching pink, shiney tights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You could have called me a mini Jane Fonda.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now on to the food...</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The menu at the Richards household was very selective and healthy, but I was still exposed to the delicious indulgences of the Hardees chicken biscuit (no Chick-fil-a yet!), Krispy Kreme donuts and pizza of any kind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, these junk food indulgences were usually only a weekend treat as my mother cooked every night and made it a priority to sit down as a family and eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I am so thankful for that today! However, the older I got, the less food sheltered I was and my palet for "the good stuff" grew (Mexican, Chinese, etc.). The older I have gotten, the less picky I have become. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My love of sports...</span> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">From day one, I knew I wanted to play sports. My dad put a basketball in my hand at three years old, and from then on, sports were constantly a part of my life. (I like to joke with him that I am the son he never had) With constantly honing my skills in a specific sport, I was usually active in something. However don't let me fool you.. I am not the type who constantly needs to be doing something and would consider myself a self-proclaimed couch potato on most days. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After years of constantly training for or playing a sport, it all came to an end with college, and I was left with a hardee appetite and little motivation to work out on my own. College and the freshman fifteen weighed heavily (literally) on my self-esteem and health. There was a lot of beer drinking, a lot of late-night Taco Bell runs, little sleep and little exercise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My weight and exercise regime was about as consistent as Alabama weather; Great at some moments, terrible the rest. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fast forward to modern day where I now have a “big girl” job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where there once was up and down lifestyle, now there is a routine: Get up, (try) to work out, go to work, eat, sleep and start all over again the next day. Now, there is more sleep and and an occassional late-night party, a lot less beer drinking and I wish I could say NO Taco Bell runs, but we’ll just say there have been less of them as well. :) Still, with this routine lifestyle, I struggle daily with the drive to work out and motivation to eat healthy. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Getting to the point...</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> I've now explained my entirely too long of a life story with food and exercise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So why am I blogging about this now, you ask? Because of a program through Metro Fitness (metrofitness.com) called Body Reboot, which is a fitness and exercise program to promote healthy living for life.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I will admit that I was very hesitant at first to start this program, and quite cocky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought, "I know how to read food labels...I know what's healthy...I know I need to exercise...I am not giving up beer on game day weekends!" Against my stubborn, know-it-all mindset, I agreed to do the program and started Monday, September 27. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And off we go!</span></div>Elizabeth http://www.blogger.com/profile/01867685340635348814noreply@blogger.com0