Back to #1 ... "Go 'Rena"!!! (Serena Williams)

... yes I'm one of those people who nickname celebrities ... like I actually know them ... lol ... but my fitness & tennis role model/demi-idol, Serena Williams has taken the #1 spot (once again) on the pro-circuit, after winning the Australia Open ... succeeding over Dinara Safina (0/6 & 3/6 sets) ... She claimed her 10th Grand Slam title!!! ... only to become the 7th woman in tennis history, to achieve double-digit Grand Slam singles titles ...


As well as my dreams of becoming a runner, after this journey is all said and done ... my love of tennis ... encouraged me to get back to a physical state ... to be able to participate again ... Last year after quite some time ... since hanging up my racket (b/c of my weight) ... returning to the court for some friendly matches ... was probably the highlight of my 2008 summer!!! ... Although I lost miserably each time ... lol ... and will never come close to "'Rena's" prestige ... It's not just about fitting into some skinny jeans without shame ... or better yet, a swimsuit ... This journey is about being ABLE to do things my obesity halted physically ... as well ;)

Serena embracing her trophy following straight set wins ... lol ... love it!!!

I'm off to go prepare my friend's and family's taxes ... 12 total ... whew ... wish me luck ... and some well needed patience!!! ;)

~PC

Thanks Jenny ... Phylicia Rashad named NEW Spokesperson

In her latest commercial she vows at age 60, "to go from Good to Better to BEST" ... love it!!!

Thank you JC for finding a sister who is remotely excited about losing weight ... as opposed to the underwhelmed and non-chalant *ahem* Queen Latifah ...

*We recently held a discussion on consumers holding corporations accountable in my ... Adv Consumer Behavior - Marketing class ... so I think my mini-rant is loosely based on this ... lol

Now, I love QL, but I suppose my particular gripe with this lucrative multi-million $$$ contract ... is that she would be the only JC spokesperson who doesn't actually lose any weight ... but a year in and declaring yourself a size "healthy" (which is not true) is a weak attempt at false surface advertising to a demographic the Queen appeals to ... mid 20s and ^ urban women ... Was she really supposed to be our motivation to partner with Jenny??? ... Someone who doesn't disclose her weight loss numerically ... mixed with her uberly passive attitude and non-visible changes??? ... We all know weight loss is hard, but when you're known for being quoted as saying you're "200lbs & Loving It" ...

... besides the paycheck and the relative parallel exposure of her new big girl undergarment line ... Curvation® ... what's it all for??? ... hmmmm

I think it resonates to women of color that hey ... no pressure to lose weight ... as long as your a little "healthier" ... that's all that matters ... we don't expect much more of you than that ... :/ ... I didn't understand why they couldn't find us a fiery and now svelte diet-model such as ... Valerie Bertinelli??? ... lol

Needless to say when I saw Phylicia Rashad's commercial, just her initial joy and enthusiasm in expressing her weight loss of 5lbs in her first week ... excited me ... She is "staring in a new role" ... taking back her life and health ... and I'll be cheering for her the entire way ...

Queen better get her act together ... with her renewed 2009 contract ... it's going to be kind of awkward if "Clair Huxtable" passes you up in the effort department ... I'm just saying ... lol

People Magazine Article about Ms. Rashad's Partnership

Phylicia Rashad's Official JC Weight Loss Blog

~PC

80/20 Rule: Diet Edition - My OFF Day

Tyler Perry's film "Why Did I Get Married?" presented an analogy that ignited the discussion of the "80/20" rule in relationships ... How some will forfeit the 80% of all they desire in a mate ... to seek the remaining 20% in someone of lesser "value" overall ...

But before T.Peezy, there was the Pareto Principle <--- (Econ 101 ... oh the memories ... lol) ... which has been translated into a myriad of scenarios ... As importantly, the 80-20 ratio seems to hold true for many input/outputs, causes/consequences, or efforts/results. It also holds true across the spectrum of relationships, business, finances, time - whatever the case may be ... and yes ... weight loss is no exception ...

(I'm finally getting to the point ... lol)

Dr. Ian explains in the "4 Day Diet" ... If 80% of your diet consists of healthy strict-to-plan-items ... and 20% is not ... you'll still see progress ... To stress that sometimes those forbidden foods (which in excess caused me to reach 257lbs :/) are okay ... If you prohibit some things entirely it can become an intense focal point ... leading to pressure ... temptation ... and often times failure ...

I have a history of messing up and then continuing to mess up until I'm completely off plan ... and then the yo-yo is back in effect. So it was my goal to at least build the strength in will to stick to my plan as closely as possible the 1st month of this year ... to hopefully garner determination and confidence in my ability to make the right choices ... so that once I do steer away ... I'll have the discipline to revert right back to plan ... a brave experiment indeed :? ...

I've had a pretty good month ... in regards to food and exercise ... but TODAY ... I had ... a Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnut ... and a hearty Bravo Italian Chicken Parmesan meal with Potato Bread and Cesar Salad ... and Lemonade ... which I think was comprised of 1 cup of sugar ... lol ... and I skipped the gym ...

But ... I'm good ... I'm not regretful ... because I know tomorrow is another day ... and one day off the wagon this time around will NOT ... require a 2nd day off of the wagon ... a 3rd day off the wagon ... and eventually watching the wagon roll on down the street without me ... lol ...

Hope everyone has a grand weekend!!! :)

~PC

My Babymama & BOSU Ball ...

From the inspiration of blogger Oct's finds ... I've been browsing for fitness items/equipment at second-hand/consignment establishments. During my lunch break today I went to a Salvation Army ... and found some 10lb hand weights ... (a 5lb upgrade to the ones I use) and ... a BOSU aka Both Sides Utilized ball ... (I got the ball for only $45 opposed to it's general retail value of $100 - $120) I've seen them at the gym, but never in-use ... and always wanted to try ... ;)

With my boxing lessons/sessions I've noticed my balance could use some improvement. I know most of my weakness is derivative of my Multiple Sclerosis ... but I certainly hope this serves as a great strengthening, balance and resistance medium ... There are so many creative and effective ways to use it ... I'll stick to the basics to start though ...

Speaking of big round objects ...

My God-Sister (Mother's God-Daughter) Tanika is in labor!!! She's all the way in NC ... I was named the God-Mother and I'm so honored ... I hope we don't confuse "Aniya" once she is of age ... lol ;) ... Nik and her husband are moving back to Columbus next month to be closer to her family and for career opportunities ... I'm soooooo excited ... and will probably be up all night so I don't miss the phone call ... =)

Okay ... enough rambling for the day ... tomorrow is FRIDAY!!! Oh golly ... it's been a long week ... ttyt peeps ;)

Today's Summary - Brief

Calories: 1,409

Water: 110oz

Exercise: AM 30 Mins Treadmill, 15 Mins Elliptical PM 30 Mins Treadmill, Boxing Basics

~PC

A Few BOSU Exercises ...

You're Inferior: Only If You Think You Are

I am ME, unapologetically ... There once was a time when I felt too dark, too short, too quiet and of course too big ... While the latter is a work in progress ... I've grown to LOVE all that encompasses ME ... physically, mentally and even socially ... no longer feeling less of a person ... because I was more of a person ...

If you spend your whole life hating who you are, how in the World is the WORLD supposed to treat you??? Don't mentally invest too much into other's opinions ... Love you ... if you don't, who will???

*We're in the middle of a level 2 snow emergency ... and me being the dedicated associate that I am ... came to work ... I presume our VP will release us early ... I'll update my food/exercise later on ... just had to quickly get that off of my mind ... lol

~PC

Good MornTing ... Work-Out ...

The T was intentional ... like Madea ... lol ... but I feel so slighted ... why had no one revealed to me the joys of a morning work out??? I mean my goodness!!! I did it ... 1 year into this journey and I pushed myself to refrain from pushing that snooze button ... for the first time ever ...

Now, it was not an easy feat ... I struggled to wake up initially, but before my eyes closed again I thought about those funky fly fresh swimsuits I've been browsing the net for ...

Now while, I may never look like the models oh and Jenny Mc above ... It's still time to step out of my comfort zone ... and push it to the limit ... I honestly felt so empowered throughout the day ... gleaming with a feeling of accomplishment almost ... I achieved something before lunch ... that wasn't work-related ... lol ...

I know it's mediocre news ... but to me ... it's kind of a big deal (apparently ... lol)

To those (youknowwhoyouarepunksyesplurallol) who said I wouldn't do it .... I say watch my duuuust ... I say watch my ... watch my duuuuust ... ;) <--- Martin fans should get that ...

I have to get back to the Biggest Loser ... the partners are back ... see you tomorrow!!!

Today's Summary

B: Oatmeal, Red Grapefruit (185cals)

S: Yogurt, Granola Bar (280cals)

L: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad (420cals)

S: 1 Large Apple, 10 Strawberries (160cals)

D: Lt. Cheddar Broccoli soup, (250cals)

S: 1/2 Cup Applesauce, Celery & Carrots w/ Ranch Dip (170cals)

Water: 156oz

Total Calories: 1,465

Exercise: AM: 45 Mins Elliptical, 30 Mins Treadmill / PM: Boxing Basics, 45 Mins Treadmill

~PC

Toccara's Fabulous Workout: For Real Size Women!!!

www.IAmToccara.com

Before & Current

Miss Toccara Jones of ... ANTM, Celebrity Fit Club, a slew of BET programming, and the Black issue of Italian Vogue ... oh yeah, and many male & hip-hop magazine covers ... lol ... is now capitalizing on her weight loss success. She has a new work-out dvd, that is geared towards "Real Size Women".

Most of us remember her victories and breakdowns as the first plus size female in her modeling pursuit, and that infamous rant while being evaluated in weigh-ins only to be followed by a fab finale. She had a common fear of black women ... that she would lose her voluptuous "fabulosity" and "fierceness", if she lost weight. But Toccara you have nothing to worry about girl ... as you still got it, and then some ...

What I admire about it all, is her shift in seeing this as not only losing weight ... but becoming healthier. A positive, black female (from the O-H too ;) who put her health above stardom and a booty ... In our community ... plus size is normalcy ... as is diabetes and heart disease ... so ... I hope her lifestyle sets a wonderful example ... I'll be copping the DVD ... when my income tax comes ... lol

Roc-a-Wear's '07 I Will Not Lose Campaign: Toccara



~PC

Resist Temptation - Be Prepared

Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance ... I LOVE this saying ... not just because it's alliterated with P's ... lol ... but as I've explained before ... while losing weight to some is exercise + less food ... it's more complicated for me ... I must analyze all that hinders me when it ... relates to ME & my abusive love of food ... so ... I was reading the "4 Day Diet" further, by Dr. Ian ... and found this ...

Resist Temptation: Chapter 4

1. Visualize the Consequences (pg.54)

"The long-term gratification of not eating that pasta dish, and sticking to your plan of losing weight can be a more satisfying thrill, especially when you move closer to your goal, start wearing clothes that you haven't been able to fit into in years, or your doctor takes you off medications for your high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. Each situation should lead to a quick cost-benefit analysis, and if you do the correct calculations, you find that the long-term cost of indulging in your craving far out-weighs the short-term benefit."

I think of it this way ... go ahead and eat those fries PC ... and "then what"??? ... I try to fast-forward mentally to possibly avoid a bad decision ... an unnecessary guilt later ... It will ONLY satisfy me temporarily ... and as I've learned this journey is worth more than just temporary gratification ...

2. Keep Out of Reach pg. 54

"Controlling your food environment is a smart way to avoid making yourself vulnerable to temptation."

Out of sight out of mind ... simple enough ...

3. Create a Temptation "Plan" pg. 54

"Temptations won't suddenly disappear from your environment. Since temptation is a permanent part of the world we live in, its best to create a plan to deal with it."

I was truly intrigued with this one ... I had already created a list of my personal triggers, but this is taking it a step further ... once I do face these situations ... I need a valid plan of action ... Such as ... when my fast food desires increase while in the car ... find an alternative route ... When the vending machine is calling my name at about 3pm ... lol ... pull out a piece of fruit, gum, or drink water ...

~PC

Today's Summary
B: HG English Muffin w/ FF Cream cheese, 6 Strawberries (145cals)
S: Yogurt, 1 Large Apple (180cals)
L: Grilled Chicken & Broccoli & Carrots w/ Steamed Seas. Brown Rice (279cals)
S: Pear, Orange Slices (186cals)
D: Lean Gourmet - Pizza Snacks (270cals)
S: 2 Provolone Cheese Sticks, 1/2 cup applesauce (240cals)

Total Calories: 1,300
Water: 121oz
Exercise: 45 Mins Treadmill

-2lbs This Week =) ... I'll Gladly Take it!!!

((insert dorky grin here)) ... I'm down .. 2 more pounds! Putting me at 170lbs even, 87lbs lost total ... I am soo friggin happy ... I'm going to be in the 160s soon =) ... if I stay on course ... of course ;) ...

The Week Ahead ...

This week, my at-work-hubby (they're kind of like to sub-boos during the work day ... general use is to pay for lunch ... having them go to the supply rooms to get you purple Sharpies when needed ... stuff like that ... lol) ... But my "Zack-ee" ... is uber-fit ... (at the corp. gym @ 5am faithfully everyday) ... and has challenged me to at least 2 ... "2-a-days" this week. Since I have boxing sessions this week on Tues & Thurs ... I'll designate those days to do a work out / physical activity in the morning as well ...

I'm pumped ... really inspired ... positive ... and ready to take on this last week of January (time certainly does fly!) ... Make it a great week everyone!!!

Today's Summary

B: Frosted Shredded Wheat, 1 Large Apple (315cals)
S: Mandarine Oranges (103cals)
L: Grilled Chicken, Seasoned Brown Rice, Jicama & Carrot Salad w/lt Vinegrette (350cals)
S: Yogurt, 1 Red Pear (180cals)
D: 3 oz Pollock, Corn on the Cob, Garden Salad w/ lt Ranch (290cals)
S: 1 cup Applesauce (200cals)

Total Calories: 1,438
Water: 120oz
Exercise: 30 Mins Treadmill, 30 Mins Elliptical, 15 Mins Str. Training (upper)

à demain ...

~PC

A Simple Saturday ...

I enjoyed my day ... the sun was shining ... and I wasn't stuck in an office ... lol ... I'm a simple girl ... I ended up cleaning ... doing a bit of yard work ... and jogging-ish ... with my boo ... The nice weather today had me thinking ... 2009 ... may just be the year I find the courage to wear a skirt again ... even a pair of shorts ... and dare I say it ... a BATHING SUIT ... scary thought ... I know ... :P ...

Today's Summary

B: Oatmeal, 5 Strawberries (140cals)

S: 1 cup Apple Sauce (200cals)

L: Subway Turkey w/ Provolone, Lettuce, Lt. Mayo (380cals)
S: Carrots & Broccoli w/ Dip (90cals)

D: Tomato Bisque Soup w/ Fresh Green Beans (278cals)

S: Trailmix, Large Apple (209cals)

Total Calories: 1,288

Water: 120oz

Exercise: Walking/Jogging Outdoors 1 Hour

& ... tomorrow is my next official weigh-in ...

ME vs me: Undermining my FAT Mindset

Dr. Ian compares merely "dieting" without exploring your mental relationship with food ... to a ship trying to go forward ...only to be halted by it's anchor digging within the bottom of the waters ... As much as I am confident, that I will complete this mission of weight loss in '09 ... I know it's going to be CRUCIAL to explore all faucets of not only how I can reach my goal ... but how I even got to this point to prevent re-gaining ...

Today I was thinking (as I heated up my SmartOnes frozen entree for lunch today) ...that I am starting to clearly identify that ... there is "surface" me ... then there's "rational/consciously-aware" me ... Not in a Sasha Fierce kind of way ... per se ... but a level of thinking above what guides me to choose the wrong foods ... A plane of thinking that irritates my eased mind ... when I don't make it to the gym ...

I just wish it wasn't such a secondary level of thinking ... I suppose if all of my actions warrant a few more moments to chose right over wrong ... good over better ... then so be it ... I feel like I've reached an interesting break-through here ...

Moral of the Story: ... Think ... then THINK again ...

I hope I made sense of this ... If not ... I'll just chalk it up as a personal rambling ... lol ... We all know what to do ... now we just have to dig a bit deeper mentally and actually do it ...

~PC

Today's Summary
B: Oatmeal w/ Strawberries (120cals)
S: Yogurt (80cals)
L: SM Ziti Cheese/Marinara (320cals)
S: 8 Strawberries (48cals)
D: n/a
S: Apple, 100cal Pack Chex Mix (190cals)

Water: 93oz
Total Calories: 758
Exercise: 30 Minutes Treadmill, 30 Minutes Spinning

Obama, Began His Inaugural Day With a Workout ... I love It!

We've heard about him balling on the courts ... saw him "try" to golf ... (leave it to Tiger Barack ... lol) ... witnessed him taking morning jogs in his IL neighborhood ... and he's even been noted to exercising 6 days a week, for a minimum for 45minutes ... and now it's being reported that he began this historic day of being sworn-in as the 44th President of the US of A ... with a WORK OUT! I'm starting to like him all the more ... Here's how That's Fit.com is reporting it ...

"The Today Show folks tell me our soon-to-be President of the United States worked out today. Here's what I've got to say about the man who commits to fitness just hours before he begins leading our country: Impressive. It makes me think the rest of us should reconsider our exercise excuses. Don't feel like working out? Too bad. Do it anyway. You won't regret it. So what if you've got a busy day ahead of you. Get up extra early and sweat. Guaranteed, it will help you cruise right through your day. Think about it this way: If the guy who is about to manage the madness of 50 states can find the time and energy to fit in fitness, then you surely can work a brisk walk, a refreshing run or a few lunges into your day. Here's an idea: Take an exercise oath today. And let this January 20, 2009 be the first day of your new fitness term."

~PC

Hope & Change ...

Presidential Inaguration: via MTV.com
Sorry in advance ... this isn't really WL-related ... ;) ...

To be alive on such a historic day is ... beyond fulfilling ... To witness millions journey to DC, in spite of current economic woes ... to be a part of such an occasion spoke "mountains" ... I've heard many senior citizens (who were there during the civil rights movement) indicate that "Never in my lifetime" ... and actually ... I can honestly say @ 23 years old ... "Never in MY lifetime" did I ever expect to witness such history ... but, it's time to move forward now ... correcting our errors ... working effectively together ... re-claiming leadership & power ...

Like many things ... all will not be fixed overnight ;) ... It's going to take hard work, focus, diligence ... and UNITY ... and I guess to start with the unified progress ... I'll go pull off my Obama bumper stickers and window placards ... lol ... as YES WE DID!!!

The notion that people are inspired not only to have hope in the societal ills that have faced our Nation for 100s of years ... but in other areas of our lives ... pridefully armored in HOPE ... allowing us the dexterity to leap beyond what we assumed were our limitations ... to usher in CHANGE ...

"Don't tell me the sky is the limit, when there are footprints on the Moon." ~Anon.

No more President-Elect ... thank goodness ... it's ... now ...

President of the United States of America

Barack Hussein Obama

Leave it to the Rap community ... lol ... Hov has some slick lines here though ... can't even front ... lol ... "My President is ..." Jay-Z-Mix

~PC

La'Vonne: 105lbs Lost In 1 Year ...

Before (265lbs) & After (160lbs)

La'Vonne Sparrow, 22, is currently gracing front page of this week's "Woman's World" magazine. Her weight loss success and now maintenance of 3 years after losing 105lbs ... has provided her a new leash on life ... and taken her a few steps closer, to her dreams of becoming a model.

Deciding against gastric bypass surgery ... her winning method was one, in which many may overlook ... the "Special K" Diet®. A plan that replaces 2 of your meals with a bowl of Special K® cereal or meal bar, followed by a balanced and healthy dinner of your choice. Here's an excerpt of the article:

"I went from a size 20 to an 8. I always craved foods that would make me feel full. Cereal filled me up without all of the extra calories, which made losing weight easier. As time passed, it got easier still. I realized eating healthy made me feel good. I wasn't even tempted by chips and junk anymore. Within a year I was 105lbs thinner and a whole lot happier. I used to dream of of being a model, and now I've even gotten a few modeling jobs."

La'Vonne's Website & Contact Information: Here you will find more in depth details of her struggles as an overweight teen, her turning point & inspiration.

& ... an Interview with her local news station in Virginia, talking with her briefly on the transformation in day-to-day life and physically ... you go girl!!! :)

~PC

Why Are You So Skinny ... Chick!?!?!?

Kate Moss & Friends>

... Have you ever had the desire to walk up to a skinny person and shake them until they revealed how they maintain such a small figure??? ... lol ... Okay, don't do that though ... I'm sure we'd catch a case for a minor assault ... lol ... but ... it perplexes me how effortlessly some are blessed to stay clear of the bulge battle ...

My old best friend who's serving in the Army stationed alllllllll the way in TX ... was a size 0, she stuffed her face just as much as I ... but I soon learned that ...

We are all different, metabolically, genetically ... and like it or not ... some have to work harder than others to get to a certain weight and/or fitness level ... So instead of rolling my eyes at the skinny girl standing in the Sbarro Pizza line at the food court ... while I'm ordering a Subway 6in turkey w/o mayo ... I see it as a challenge now ... First of all ... mind your business and worry about you ... and Second of all ... prove that you are worth every inch of exaggerated effort compared to our smaller counterparts ... stop pouting ... and just get 'er done ... ;)

~PC

Recognizing, How I Set Myself Up ... For Failure

Struggling with my weight since the age of 11 ... I've had many small victories that were soon erased with big gains ... and the absolute hardest part of being a yo-yo dieter was reaching a certain point ... mentally etching it in my mind ... only to re-gain and find myself back at what was a prior victory point months later ... realizing that I could have been so much further along if I had never stopped...

As they say insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results ... This past year I've really had to take a look at myself and dissect what made me fall short of my weight loss goals time and time again. I know much of it was immaturity and lack of knowledge concerning diet and effective weight loss ... but I had to / still am finding out what actions and/or thoughts continue to set me up for failure ... Once faced ... then, and only then, can I succeed long-term ...

Unrealistic Goals: "I need to lose at least 10lbs a week." I mean, I honestly used to set goals like that for myself ... confident that in 10 weeks ... voilà ... I'd be skinny! ... lol ... Now someone else may have been able to accomplish this ... but when I discovered (even after starving myself) it wasn't happening ... I'd get discouraged ... and then ... quit.

Plateaus: I usually hit a major plateau every 2-3 months or so of doing really well shedding the pounds ... that's my pattern ... and no matter what I do in that timeframe ... the scale does not move!!! (it's been the case for the past month too, until yesterday ;)... Then, I'd eat out of spite ... basically with the notion that if I eat right and still cant lose weight ... what's the point??? ... I might as well be eating what I want!!!

Celebration: You've lost 15lbs Paula ... go ahead ... you deserve that Whopper w/ cheese meal ... and that McDonald's breakfast the following morning ... and that Snickers bar positioned right next to the granola bar in the vending machine ... and that (well you get the point) ...

I'm far from perfect even far from my goal ... but in order to take control of this long-term abusive love of food and challenges with being active ... I must figure out and rectify all that has hindered me ... even though it's ME ...

~PC

Today's Summary

B: Oatmeal w/ Raisins (203cals)

S: Plain Yogurt, Mandarin Oranges (120cals)

L: Grilled Tilapia w/ fresh Green Beans (130cals)

S: Red Pear (80cals)

D: Progresso Veggie Soup (70cals)

S: Broccoli w/ Ranch dip (80cals)

Total Calories: 710

Water: 129oz

Exercise: Boxing Basics ses #3 1 Hour, 45 Minutes Treadmill

- 4lbs This Week ... I got my SWAGGER back ;)

I'll start off with the some good news =) ... I lost 4lbs this week! I started at 176 last Saturday, and my glass scale read 172.1 this frigid morning. I know 4lbs isn't much to do back flips over, but I have felt "stuck" in this 170-abyss for the longest. I think re-aligning my diet to many of the 4-Day/FS diet choices have helped and I couldn't be happier!!!

So my treat for this mini-success was a shopping spree at Bath and Body Works. They were getting rid of the old design bottles at $3-$5 ... before I knew it my little navy blue mesh bag was filled to the brim ... $250 worth of stuff for only $107!!! ... a friggin' steal :P ... I ended up sharing much of it with my mom and little cousin though ... lol ...

That's it ... Im getting ready to head to a Lil Wayne concert ... he FINALLY came to my city ... and this will be my first concert or mass public event/celebration/party ... since wow, maybe 2004 my freshman year of college ... I never really felt comfortable as a big girl in those types of scenarios... I always felt like the biggest thing there ... an actual outcast who just didn't fit in ... so tonight I won't just be wearing opaque black tights, knee-high boots, and a sweater dress ... but also a bit of confidence ;) ... see you all tomorrow!!!

~Peezy C. Baby, Please say the Baby!!! ... lol

Today's Summary

B: Sm. Apple, Plain Yogurt (130cals)

S: Granola, Mandarin Oranges (280cals)

L: Grilled Chicken, Red potato (180cals)

S: Broccoli w/ Ranch dip (80cals)

D: Progresso Veggie Soup, w WG crackers (110cals)

S: Planned: Pear and/or Plain Yogurt (140cals)

Water: 110 oz

Total Calories: 1,100

Exercise: Boxing Basics ses #2 1 hour, 30 mins treadmill

It's Not About Them ... Day 4 of Module 1

Ever heard of anyone trying to lose weight to "get back at" someone??? ... I started this journey with a list ... A list of people I couldn't wait to see ... once I dropped this excess weight ... I day-dreamed about a "look-at-me-now moment" ... like they do on Maury ... lol ... I haven't encountered too many outrageously rude or crude people in my life ... but there were a few characters who were less than favorable ... but ...

Nearly a year into this weight loss journey ... and only recently have I realized that ... we will never lose the weight and keep it off if our motives are in the wrong place ... and are not of OUR best interests ... People who have wronged us have gone on with their lives ... and so should we ... I forgave them ... and whatever I do ... will be for me ... So the list is no more ... I put a candle lighter to it this morning ... and I must admit ... in a symbolic way ... I felt quite proud of myself ...

... I said yesterday was cold ... today it really is ... lol ... -6 degrees ... My brother's are happy as school closings have already been announced ... oh the good old days ... brats! ;P


Today's Summary
B: Cottage Cheese w/ Peaches (182cals)
S: Granola (180cals)
L: Garden Salad w/ Ranch (87cals)
S: Celery w/ FF Dip (58cals)
D: Brown Rice, w Pinto Beans (380cals)
S: Yogurt w/ Strawberries (100cals)

Water: 112oz
Total Calories: 987
Exercise: 30 Mins treadmill, 30 Mins elliptical

~PC

Day 3 of Module 1 ... "It's so Cooold in the C"

Induction is intended for 4 days as you initiate the "4 Day Diet" ... and is suggested to be done only 1 day after the first cycle ... So this was Day 3 of my 1st module (I hope I made sense of that ... lol)... It went well ... I was so tempted today though ... It seems like when I'm bound and determined to have a fantastic day ... someone at work wants to plan a potluck ... or becomes extra generous and picks up Panera bagels and muffins for everyone for breakfast ... lol ... I gladly abstained and enjoyed my suculantly delicous red pear instead ...

The weather here is so crazily wintry ... a normal 45 min commute from the office to home turned into a 4 hour one ... and my gym closed early ... so I had to settle for my rec bike at home ... and even had the angst to pick up my jump rope for a at first awkward session ... lol ...

I am still not physically where I'd like to be, my goal of becoming a runner is one I'd like to see accomplished before the end of this summer ... and I know I'm really going to have to start pushing myself a bit harder with my workouts to condition ... my only reserve is my MS ... when I'm overheated or overactive I start getting those wiggity-wack symptoms again ... but I can't let that fear continue to hinder me ... I think if I gradually intensify my workouts ... I should be fine ... but we'll see ...

So, if you couldn't tell this was a boring day ... I'll hollaatchuall tomorrow ;)

Also, I've been focusing on the thoughts of eating to live not living to eat ... I think that sums up all that I have done wrong in the past ... I'll post more later on ...

Today's Summary

B: Red Pear, Oatmeal (185cals)

S: Yogurt (80cals)

L: Pinto Beans, Ceasar Salad (250cals)

S: Broccoli w/ FF ranch dip (75cals)

D: Veggie Soup (120cals)

S: Carrots w FF ranch dip (85cals)

Total Calories: 795
Water: 80oz

Exercise: 1 Hour Bike, 15 Mins Jump rope

~PC

4 Day Diet - "Induction" Day 1 ...

I've had the Serenity Prayer on my mind a lot lately ... I suppose it describes my truest will in pursing this weight loss journey ... as well as life ...

"God, please grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the Courage to change the things I can, and the Wisdom to know the
difference."

Today was a pretty cool day ... I've embarked on the 4 Day Diet ... and the initial point or "Module" is called "Induction" ... quite similar to the "Detox" in previous books ... It's about eating clean foods ... fruits, veggies, beans, etc ... This is to condition the body for internal cleansing ... eliminating waste and toxins ... yadda yadda ya ... I think some of the best cleanses involve food ... I tried the Master Cleanse last year ... and let's just say ... it wasn't for me ... lol ... The activities in this first module should also provide an invigorating ... level of energy ... I could sure use that ...

I'm also a stubborn calorie counter ... so I'm not sure if I'll be able to take Dr. Ian's advice on doing away with it ... I might one day ... but today ... just isn't that day ... lol

Today's Summary
B: Plain Yogurt, Strawberries (150cals)
S: 1 Pear (90cals)
L: Pinto Bean Soup, Garden Side Salad w/ lt Ranch (230cals)
S: 1 cup Grapes (62cals)
D: Crudités / 2 Carrots, 1 cup Celery, 4 spears Broccoli, 4 spears Cauliflower in Balsamic (110cals)
S: Sugar Free Jello Pudding (60cals)

Total Calories: 702cals
Water: 139oz
Exercise: 30 mins Cardio, 30 mins Treadmill, 30 mins Boxing Basics

~PC

Paula Ali??? ... & The "4 Day Diet" ...

My fiance is the greatest man in the World, and I'm not just saying that because Valentine's Day is a little over a month away ... lol ... But, the best way to start off my week is to make sure the grocery shopping is completed by Sunday ... and all of my healthy food "armor" is readily available for the week ahead ... I just got in on today from CA ... extremely tired and dreading having to do the shopping ... but to my surprise ... my sweetie had already done it for me ... with the help of Ky & Jay of course ... all of my favs were stocked away ... =) ... aww shucks!!!

Also, the gym he PTs at on the weekends has a boxing program ... and I've subtly expressed wanting to try it ... besides jogging and walking ... I almost always get bored with the same ol' of the gym ... so this year I wanted to try something different ... something exciting ... on X-Mas he gave me a pass to the boxing area to train!!! ... My first session is tomorrow ... and I am geeked ... and ready for the challenge ... hmmmm ... maybe I'll even get hot enough to walk across the ring with the Round signs in a swimsuit ... :/ ... okay, maybe I'm pushing it ... lol

I will be starting the 4 day diet cycling as mentioned on Friday ... I'm almost done with the book ... and will explain how my actions will hopefully correlate to the plan ... as I continue to post ...

That's it for moi ... I hope everyone has a fantastic week!!! (ding) <--- get it? ... that's the bell ... lol ... à revoir ;) ...

Today's Summary
B: Shredded Wheat w/ Splenda & Skim (230cals)
S: Grapes (90 cals)
L: Mandarin Oranges, Romaine Hearts, Balsamic Vin (153cals)
S: Chex Mix (110cals)
D: Lean Cuisine Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta (220cals)
S: Shortbread Cookies (100cals) Packs & Apple Sauce (100cals)

Total Calories: 1,003
Water: 120oz
Exercise: 30 mins rec. bike

~PC

BodyBugg©, Curves Smart™ and other WL Gadgets ...

Hey peeps/peepettes ;) ...

I'm not completely tech-adept ... but there are some really cool weight loss "thing-a-ma-jiggys" and programs out there for those who are/want to be ... lol ... or those of us who simply would rather leave the guess-work to a contraption ...

Curves Smart™

Curves™ fitness centers are absolutely grand ... The environment takes away from the the main reason why many avoid gyms ... intimidation ... It's a very mellow and accommodating place ... I have a free membership via my mom ... who loves the place ... They've designed a technical program that serves as an "e-personal trainer" ... A personal tag/card is swiped over a reader that's attached to the machines you use during sessions ... for progress reports and relative data ... the CEO explains the basics in the vid below ...

Curves™ Website

BodyBugg©

A neat little "thingy" that is worn on the upper arm. According to the description it's considered:

"... A calorie management system that uses a patented process for interpreting calorie burn. It is this process of measuring calorie burn and calorie intake that is unique to the bodybugg calorie management system..."

... it intelligently measures steps, motions, even skin temperature to determine energy exertion ... to be coupled with a web tracking application, it provides meticulous data concerning your progress ...

The price .... you ask??? For the armband and web program you're looking at about $249.99 ... notice I say YOU'RE ... I got in trouble for buying a $20 pedometer last week ... he's not having that ... but its neat ... I'm going to search around for any imitators ... lol

Reviews ~ BodyBugg© Website

Meal Measure

Now this is an interesting one ... our weight is determined by how much we eat and not solely what we eat ... this "gizmo" separates into 4 sections ... designed for the ideal meal and proportions of a 3oz protein, 1 cup fruits & vegetables and 1/2 cup for starches ... The price is $19.99 ...

The concept is the first mention in this MSNBC video ...

Today's Summary
Calories: 1,476
Water: 165oz
Exercise: Treadmill (Jog/Walk) 1 Hour

See you tomorrow ... I'll know by then if I'll be starting the 4 day plan as well ;)

~PC

Dr. Ian Has Done it Again ... "The 4 Day Diet" w/ NBC Interview

Best selling author, "Celebrity Fit Club" advisor ... and pioneer of the 50 Million Pound Challenge ... Dr. Ian K. Smith, has designed a new "Diet" ... I parenthesised diet, because once you explore either one ... "The Fat Smash Diet", "The Extreme Fat Smash Diet" and even his latest "The 4 Day Diet" ... you will quickly realize that it is not your conventional diet. In fact, it is a blueprint ... for many healthy long-term lifestyle changes ... and nothing close to a fad ...

I bought "The 4 Day Diet" on today, and will figure out what it all contains this weekend, but ... from my understanding the variants of the plan seem to occur with more frequency, yet still follows the concepts of both Fat Smash plans. You are somewhat cycling in a 4 day standard ... focusing on 7 *"modules" or phases as opposed to the the long term 2 weeks to 90 days as prior plans ... Enticing your metabolism with encouraged diversified meals, respective to the modules ... and also having the freedom of a few "cheat" foods in small proportions ... are a just a few of it's benefits ;) ... I've also read in reviews that much of the beginning of this publication addresses the mental and emotional part of dieting and weight loss, which many plans and other diets fail to acknowledge ... It's not always just about calories and exercising .... he leads you on a path to finding the root to our individual weight barriers ...

What I admire most about all that Dr. Ian proposes is that it is entirely logical and safe ... We all generally know what we should do to lose weight, but when it's formatted and communicated in a professional manner with added helpful information, it makes it easier to follow at times ... so I'm rambling ... but I will get back to you on more of the details ... and whether or not I'll be starting it on Monday ;) ... lol ... toodles have a fab weekend!!!

~PC

Here's a Video of Dr. Ian's Apperance on the Today Show, talking about the plan.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Fat Girl Confessions #4: My Bootylicious Graduation Gown

High School ... my senior year, during the first week of school all seniors were called to the auditorium and given the information for graduation requirements, class trip details, prom schedules, and cap & gown orders. Me being ever so eager to lose weight before I went off to college, just knew that I'd be able to reach my goal in 36 weeks before the school year and my HS career ended ... and this kind of pressure would surely keep me on track ... so instead of putting my actual size on the cap and gown order form (size 18 at the time) ... I put a size 14!!! ...

Long story short ... life went on, those 36 weeks came to an end and I totally forgot about not picking the right size ... lol ... and lost not even 1 pound ... my white gown came 2 days before the ceremony ... and during my fitting it was tight as heck!!! It took everything within me not to bust out in tears 1. because I should have picked my actual size earlier ... and 2. because I yet again, failed at trying to drop the pounds ... and had so much time to do so ...


Now the top part was loose but when it came to the hips, stomach and booty area it was snug like mug ... lol ... I'm so happy it's laughable now ... it wasn't then ... so ... everyone thought there was a mix up in orders and I said not a word :/ ... so I found the thinnest clothing to wear underneath ... got my hair and nails "did" and my cousin hooked up my make-up ... and I went off to buy some hot heels to walk across the stage in ... I figured, all of the mentioned would take away from the hoochie-mama graduation gown ... lol ...


I stood in line next to my BFF on the big day and tensely waited with everyone else ... and witnessed not 1, not 2, but 3 other chunky chicks like me with tight gowns on too ... I brought it to the attention of some of my guy friends who I knew were going to say something anyway ... and after they made a few cracks, warning us not to sit down fast when it's time to descend on the the bleachers ... because our seams would rip in unison ... we all laughed ... It was certainly a cherishable moment to Mifflin High's Class of 2003 finale ... and I was glad to have helped contribute ... lol

Go Punchers (Cow-Punchers)!!!

~PC

Today's Super Brief Summary

1,343 Calories Total

112 oz of Water

1 hour Treadmill, 30 minutes Elliptical

YouTube Re-Introduction February 2009 ... ;)

I've really enjoyed the ease of this blogging thing ... but after the many YT threats and messages such as "Oh, so you can blog but can't vlog?" ... lol ... I seriously want to get back into the regimen of posting regularly on YouTube ...

My last texty "video" was in September '08 ... I plan on "re-launching" February which is also the month that will mark my 1 year Journey anniversary too!!! :P ... Being so engrossed with work, starting my business, grad studies and now traveling kind of makes it hard to post weekly or biweekly ... but seeing that my humble starts, inspiration and encouragement came from my YT WL community experience throughout last year ... it's only right to make the trip back ... before this journey is complete ... <--- It's going to happen ... no, really ... 2009 is MINE ... lol

I used to get so sad, when people who I had watched religiously just disappeared or when you clicked on their icon you'd get the pink highlighted message of "This Account Has Been Closed" ... :/ ... I vowed that I wouldn't do that ... I will finish what I started ... so ... I's coming back (Yes, I's ... lol) ... I thank God for the people I've met and been exposed to there ... and even those who have stuck with me when I thought I couldn't do it ...

MadamePC's Weight Loss YouTube Channel

Today's Summary

B: Cinnamon Oatmeal, Apple (210cals)

S: Yogurt (80cals)

L: Turkey on Wheat, w/ Cheddar lt mayo, baked Lays (323cals)

S: Granola Chewy (100cals)

D: Planned:WW Smart Ones Ziti w/ Marinara (320cals)

S: Planned: Grapes (110cals)

Total Calories: 1,143

Water: 146oz

Exercise: 1 Hr Treadmill (off/on jog), 30 Mins Elliptical, 15 Mins Upper-Bod Strength Training

~PC

They Lost 1/2 Their Size: 186lbs Lost ~ Stacie Guines

I'm in San Mateo, by myself (until tomorrow) Hurry Alicia!!! ... lol ... and have been enjoying the beautiful view from my room ... of the water ... I love calm scenery and large bodies of water ... ironically, I can't swim ... :/ ...

But ... I picked up a People magazine today ... and I've been a sucker for weight loss success stories. Since I was 11 ... I have collected crates and crates worth of magazines ... with "Before & After" cover stories (obsessive, much? ... maybe ... lol) ... I came across Stacie Guines in the "They Lost Half Their Size" section ... What I love most about these specific stories is that their accomplishments in losing weight came from lifestyle changes ... no surgery, no pills, no fads ... just will ... commitment ... and right choices ... her story is below ... :)

Stacie Guines ~186lbs Lost

People.com Gallery



... from 340lbs (2005) to 154lbs (2009)

The Chattanooga, Tenn., teacher, 27, says her eating affected her behavior. "I dated a guy in high school and always ate like a bird around him, because I didn't want him to see me eating – but then I'd binge later. At holiday parties, I'd hit the buffet, then mingle with different people so I could pretend I hadn't eaten yet and could go get more food. I was in denial. At 22, I topped 300 lbs. and my doctor became concerned; I have diabetes and high blood pressure in my family," says Guines, now 27, "I decided enough is enough, and a friend who had also struggled with her weight convinced me to do L.A. Weight Loss together. It took time getting used to foods I hadn't eaten, like asparagus, but I have a new passion for broccoli! And seeing the weight come off made it easy to stick to. So now when I go to parties, I eat beforehand!"

Here's a Video of "How They Did It" ... a mini-doc of all featured in the article ... including Stacie ...

Here's a link to the Video of the Interview with Meredith Vieira on NBC's Today Show.

~*~

À demain!!!

~PC

What's Worse Than a Skinny Evil Woman???

... a big woman who finds joy in comparing herself to other big women (in a negative light) to feel good about themselves ... the "well, at least I'm not as fat as she is mentality" ... Despite Mo'nique's view on life ... I say size doesn't define your level of "evil" your personality and motives do ... All of my life, I've actually gotten along much better with those skinny "evil" women ... lol ... In such a struggle ... I can't look at someone who might be bigger than me as any "less" of a person ... because we ALL have a similar underlining problem ... let's UNITE!!! :) ... lol

Today's Summary
B: Oatmeal, Apple (170cals)
S: FF Tapioca Pudding, 5 Strawberries (130cals)
L: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad (430cals)
S: 8 Strawberries (48cals)
D: Vegetable Soup (80cals)
S: Granola (220cals)

Total Calories: 1,078
Water: 118oz

Exercise: 1 Hour Treadmill, 30 Minutes Elliptical

~PC

*the corner pic has nothing to do with this post ... I just looked for two "plus" sized women rocking the same fashions ... and ran across this ... lol ... they both look fab might I add!

CALI Dreams :) ...

Happy Saturday!!! ;)

My career is in $$$finance$$$ (retirement investments) ... and needless to say my job has been quite stressful with the state of the market and this economy ... but things are looking up in the new year ... the Dow closed above 9,000pts on yesterday =) ... but, I still have much mending and consoling of relationships with our 3rd party firms to do ... The goal is simply to solidify their faith in us ... and retain their business after seeing losses across the board over the last few months :/ ... but ... my case load is on the west coast ... and that's where I'll be for the next few weeks!!! ... yee-ta-tee ... lol ... Cali -forn - IA!!!

Now traveling can be a hindrance to weight loss plans, IF you aren't prepared ... So I intend on shopping for healthy items and preparing meals in my suite as opposed to eating out everyday ... I mean, I'll eat out some with those with whom we are going to visit (good choices)... I'm so excited! We leave on Monday ... so I'm off to get packed ... see ya!

Today's Summary

B: Turkey Sausage Links, 2 Med eggs (230cals)

S: Yogurt (80cals)

L: Turkey Sandwich on Wheat w/ lt mayo (295cals)

S: sm Apple (70cals)

D: Grilled Chicken Breast, sm. Red Potatoe (250cals)

S: Fudgeshoppe cookies (100cals)

Total Calories: 1,025

Water: 162oz <---I was getting it in today!!! ... lol

Exercise: 1 Hour Treadmill, 30 Mins Elliptical, 15 Mins Strength training

~PC

Losing Weight: Reality, You Might Lose Some "Friends" Too

I'm probably the most reserved, goofy, kindest dork you could ever find ... lol ... compared to many ... but I remember a few people who are in my "clique" ... that asked me, once I started, "Are you going to change after you lose weight?" ... and I'd always reply "Yes, hopefully for the better" ... even though I knew that they were in an underlining manner ... referencing my personality ... ambition ... and more than likely my confidence ...

I've lost a little bit of weight and can admit to being a bit more "free-er" <---I highly doubt that's even a word ... lol ... but you get my drift ... it's hard to think about it ... but ... some people just arent content when others ... do well ... even among "friends" ... I suppose I offended her when I submitted my resignation from being the quiet, low self-esteemed, purse-watching, wall flower, smiling on the outside sad on the inside Paula ... and took on the new role of a someone who finally believes in herself and is finally having fun in life (might I add, still in the form of a big girl for now ... lol) ... and if that's the "change" a few can't grow to accept ... hmmm ... I'll help them out, by backing up ...

Bottom line, watch who you fraternize with ... in such a struggle (weight loss and other challenges in life) ... put into those who put into you ... love and care for those who show you the same ... don't stay in situations and relationships in which you don't feel valued ... Surround yourself with POSITIVE individuals ... My family is crazy and I can't escape them ... lol ... but as for others ... it's been real ... toodles! ;)

Today's Summary

B: Cheerios w/ Skim, Splenda (150cals)

S: Strawberry Yogurt (80cals)

L: Granola (200 cals)

S: 4 Large Strawberries (24cals)

D: WW Smart Ones Ziti w/ Dinner Roll (440cals)

S: Lt. Popcorn, 20oz Diet Dr. Pep <---it's a blockbuster night with the boo ... lol (260cals)

Total Calories: 1,154

Water: 53oz <--- I was slipping today ... :?

Exercise: 1 Hr Treadmill, 30 Mins Elliptical

This vid is from a fellow YT vlogger, who's reached her Weight Loss and Natural Hair goals ... speaking on the element of confidence, positive, and negative people ... love it!!!

~PC