Health NOT to Health NUT

We Are Sparta!

2012-03-08T01:00:00.001-07:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Spartan Race for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Ok, so I'm no spartan, and I'm guessing you aren't either. Obviously if I'm trying to go from Health NOT to a Health NUT, I'm pretty far from it-no nice leaned gladiator fighting style body for me here. Yet. (Well, I'd be happy with the nice and lean part-the big scary man muscles can stay with the Spartans, though I'd really like to have some better upper body strength!)

Have you ever heard of the Spartan Race? I hadn't until recently, and it it looks intense! Spartan racing is a new revolutionary way to work out and push your body to it's limits with their obstacle course that has many different types of races, and even different difficulty levels. This means there is something for everyone, from a brand new runner just taking their first steps to your most experienced marathon participant!

Looking at their statistics, 99.9% of runners who begin these challenges finish all the way, and 100% of them will have their thirst for mud running and challenges satisfied. That sounds pretty fun!

This Spartan Race looks like so much fun, and it's unlike anything I've seen or tried before-I think this would be a great way to spark a love of running and start working towards those weight loss goals I've been aiming for. I'm definitely going to be checking this out!

For more information on the Spartan Race, run on over to the Frequently Asked Questions section, you can watch a video tutorial there and read through all of the facts! You should check it out and possibly sign up for one of these awesome races-I'm going to have to tell more of my runner friends about it!

Sitting is Killing You

2012-03-06T13:08:00.000-07:00

Source: mashable.com via Canada on Pinterest

You Are in Control

2012-02-27T14:55:00.000-07:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Miss Angie on Pinterest

More or Less

2012-02-21T08:38:00.000-07:00

I really need to do something.

I've fallen off off the wagon and am having a hard time getting back on.

How are you guys doing on your goals?

Great Advice!

2012-02-01T15:41:00.002-07:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Miss Angie on Pinterest

Drink More Water

2012-01-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

I always struggle with drinking more water.

It's so vitally important!

Source: soon2befit.tumblr.com via Angela on Pinterest

Source: healthyisalwaysbetter.tumblr.com via Angela on Pinterest

You Are Not a Dog

2012-01-17T11:35:00.001-07:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Angela on Pinterest

How true is this?

We're not dogs, so why are treats rewards?

I'm thinking a new pair of shoes sounds much healthier...

Fitness At Home

2012-01-13T13:28:00.002-07:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Angela on Pinterest

Pick Yourself Up...

2011-11-29T13:44:00.001-07:00

...Dust yourself off.

I've been neglectful of my body lately.

Neglectful of this blog and the inspirational posts that were to come of it.

I got busy, content, disinterested, lethargic, gluttonous, distracted, and just about every other excuse that isn't really an excuse I can think of.

The long and short of it? I have to get back to it.

I have to start drinking water, exercising, hooping, eating right, and posting again.

My choice? Get my (rather large) booty out there and get back to doing what I know I need to. Even if I have to do it one step at a time.

Anyone still out there with me?

How are you?

Why I've Been Away...

2011-11-17T12:20:00.001-07:00

Hey folks!

I've been absent here because I have a huge string of giveaways going on over at my other blog, and it's taking a lot of attention. So forgive me, I'll be back soon!

Also, you should check that out.

Click on the pretty button!

Workout Song of the Week

2011-11-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

This week's song:
Straight Jacketby Alanis Morissette

This song has a nice angry beat to it.I find that rage-ish songs are great for working out to.You get all focused like "Yeah, screw you fat!" Hahaha!
What are you working out to these days?Link Up!

Clear Away Some Bloat

2011-11-03T14:36:00.002-06:00

Playing Catch Up

2011-11-02T09:12:00.003-06:00

Man, have I really been slacking off.

I mean seriously.

I haven't been posting daily here.

I haven't been exercising.

Or Hula-Hooping.

I haven't been eating healthy.

In fact I've ate so much candy.

And even had some soda pop.

I suck big time.

What have I been up to instead?

Throwing an awesome Halloween Party at home.

And one at work too.

My face paint for my costume.

I've also been dating someone.

Playing lots of rock band, watching movies, being intimate.

That's a new change.

Work has been crazy.

And I'm tired all the time.

I also need to start taking my suppliments again.

I have added pretty new things to my Etsy shop.
Check them out.

What have you been up to?

Really, I want to know.

Also, what would you like to see more of here on the blog?

I'll take requests for research and posts. :)

How do you take your coffee?

2011-10-21T09:59:00.001-06:00

I found it interesting that the bigger coffee didn't actually have more coffee in it, rather it just has more sweetener. Makes me glad I stopped ordering it as it comes.

I'm sure most of you have seem my post: Coffee: How beneficial is it?

My typical order? Triple Venti Pumpking Spice Latte with half the sweetener. So I get 2.5 pumps of syrup and an extra shot of expresso. More coffee, less sweet. When I'm being really good I'll even order it with non-fat milk.

If I were being healthier I'd just get a plain expresso and add a tablespoon of cream and a tablespoon of sugar, which only equals about 50 calories-give or take a few.

Visit www.starbucks.com to see full nutritional information for all of their drinks.

So, how do you take your coffee?

Cold Stomach?

2011-10-20T11:53:00.001-06:00

via

Love Your Body

2011-10-12T09:42:00.000-06:00

via

Isn't that the truth.

Be realistic.

You can do this.

What Are You Craving?

2011-10-11T08:18:00.000-06:00

via

Snake Oil?

2011-10-06T11:25:00.001-06:00

via

Gluten-Free Flour Blends

2011-10-04T10:11:00.003-06:00

via

Effort

2011-09-30T08:26:00.000-06:00

I have to admit, I've been putting little to no effort into getting healthy these last few weeks. I don't know what is wrong with me, but no matter how much I say "I'm going to get back on the wagon" I never really put forth the effort." It's really sad.

I haven't really hula hooped more than once a week, my water weight has been trivial at best (we're talking 20-40oz a day) and my diet has been whatever I can find in the breakroom or whatever my coworker wants for lunch. What the hell is wrong with me?

Oh well, I guess as soon as I recover from having my tooth pulled (I'm on heavy painkillers and antibiotics for the week-blah.) I'll have to put more effort into it. I have no energy. Yuck.

How are you all doing on your goals?

Metabolism 101

2011-09-28T11:56:00.001-06:00

Workout Song of the Week

2011-09-26T09:13:00.001-06:00

This week's song:

Lonely No More

by Rob Thomas

It's got a nice steady beat

A sexy man's voice

and lyrics I can relate to.

I'm in.

What are you working out to this week?

Link up!

FAF WTF

2011-09-23T11:46:00.003-06:00

What is wrong with me?

I didn't post here all week!

Terrible!

I didn't weigh myself.

Watch my food intake.

Drink water.

I suck big time.

I'm eating some of this right now:

WTF.

Next week-I've got this.

Damnit.

A Sip of Soda

2011-09-13T14:27:00.003-06:00

via

Workout Song of the Week

2011-09-12T09:18:00.004-06:00

This song is high energy and super fun to work out hard to. Plus it's catchy, so I have to sing along while I do it! :) At least if you're singing while you work out you know your body is getting enough oxygen. It's a good way to tell!

What are you working out to this week?

Avocados Make Me Happy

2011-09-09T12:40:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Hass Avocado Board featuring Hass Avocados for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Of all the fruits and vegetables out there, Avocados are one of the most amazing and versatile things you can eat. There have been many occasions where the roommate and I have referred to them as "orgasmic" and often made special trips to the store just for some .

Avocados are one of my all time favorite things to eat, whether I'm simply dashing a little salt on them and eating them alone, mashing them into a fantastic guacamole (lime being another of my favorites, especially with guac) or slicing them up to add to a tomato sandwich. I even have a vegetarian friend who always orders avocados as a replacement for meat on sandwiches and other things when we're out to eat. They're hearty and tasty too!

Not to mention, in my quest for being a health nut, avocados are a huge source of good fats and one medium avocado has nearly 100 vitamins and minerals, making it a nutrient dense food choice. Plus, over 75% of the fat in these lovely taste explosions is unsaturated-so they're a great substitute for fatty foods!

Hass Avocados is hosting a Kick Off with Hass Avocados Recipe Contest where you can submit your favorite avocado recipes for a chance to win a trip for 4 to the Rose Bowl Game®.

The grand prize includes: Round trip airfare, hotel accommodations, participation in a Rose Bowl Game® Welcome Reception, admission to the “behind-the-scene” Rose Bowl Parade® decorating site, sightseeing tour of Pasadena, admission to the Rose Bowl Game® on January 2. 2012 + more!

There are 2 ways to participate:

A weekly sweepstakes where we will give away a box of avocados for 14 consecutive weeks!
A Recipe Contest where the winner will win a trip to the Rose Bowl Game®!

30 finalists will be selected and judged on:

Use of Hass Avocados in recipe – 25%
Photo quality and image appeal– 25%
Creativity – 25%
Relevance – 25%.

Those 30 finalists and their recipes will then be voted on by the public, and the grand prize winner will be chosen by which recipe has the greatest number of votes!

Check out Hass Avocados for tailgating tips and recipes and feel free to sign up to receive free emails with recipe ideas and nutrition information. You’ll get loaded up with great ideas once a month.

Now excuse me, I have to go buy some Hass Avocados now... I have a craving I have to fill.

Water: Want vs. Need

2011-09-08T13:33:00.001-06:00

Why is this so hard for me again?

I was doing so well but now I suck at drinking water!

ARGH!

MUST DRINK WATER!

Fitocracy

2011-09-07T10:50:00.006-06:00

Is anyone on Fitocracy yet?

If so, add me! :)

If you don't know what Fitocracy is, you should check it out.

It's a social network for getting in shape.

You can log workouts, see what your friends are doing, and earn points.

You can also join groups and talk to other people with similar interests.

I'm part of a group for work, a hula hoop group, and a geek group.

It's just kind of a fun twist to the getting healthy thing.

Leave me your email if you want an invite. :)

Get Messy

2011-09-06T10:20:00.004-06:00

How true is that?

Yeah go ahead and feel sexy after.

But it should be sexy with messy hair and dripping in sweat.

That's how you know you've done something right. :)

Go out there and get messy ladies.

We can do this!

Workout Song of the Week

2011-09-05T10:03:00.001-06:00

This week's song:

Show Me How You Burlesque

by Christina Aguilera

The roommate and neighbors put this on just before I went to bed last night, and I LOVE this show. This song is good to get up and work out to as well, enjoy! :)

What are you working out to this week?

Fat Ass Friday

2011-09-02T09:09:00.000-06:00

No, I didn't weight myself today. But I couldn't bring myself to.

I've been slacking so much, and I while I looked in the mirror and thought I looked lovely last night-my opnion changed when I looked at my body. I've been eating crap food (gasp-even soda now and again) and not exercising or hula hooping.

I am NOT going down this road again..

I am not going to give in to my laziness anymore.

I'm not going to let myself feel bad because I put on another 10 lbs and it was all my fault for not getting out there and working for what I want. I won't have it.

Time to turn things around!

Time to get back on the wagon.

Who uses Fitocracy?

~~If anyone has an extra, I'd LOVE an invite.~~
Thanks Ashley!

I've heard good things, and that it has a Hooping group.

Goals for this week:

Juice Cleanse all week.
Hula hoop every day.
Get up early enough to exercise in the mornings now that it's cooler.

You should check out:

Kas Fitness is hosting a Clean Eating Challenge on FB. Come join us!
My good friend Ashlee recommended My Body Gallery. I'm not sure I understand it just yet, but I think the point is to show and be proud of all body types. Real women, y'know?
Heather at Wellness Without Pity recommended Vision Boards. I think these are a fabulous idea and have been thinking of doing it for a while. I'll post the results when I'm done, but for now read her post!

How is your progress coming along?

Clean Eating Challenge

2011-09-01T08:54:00.000-06:00

Kasandra is hosting a Clean Eating Challenge as an event on Facebook.

It's pretty simple, here are the guidelines:

If you count calories, stay within your calorie range.
Eat as few processed foods as possible.
Eat home cooked meals as much as possible.
Try at least one new recipe.

So it's pretty simple, and will do worlds of good for you.

I believe there's also going to be a giveaway during this.

You're welcome to join us HERE.

I've been slacking...

2011-08-30T11:23:00.000-06:00

Not only have I been slacking on posting regularly, or linking up with FAF, but I have also been slacking on just about everything else health related.

I haven't been eating well.
I haven't been drinking water much.
I haven't been exercising OR hula hooping.

See? Major slackage. I need to get my butt in gear.

How have you been doing?

Workout Song of the Week

2011-08-29T09:43:00.000-06:00

This week's song:

Hips Don't Lie

by Shakira ft. Wyclef Jean

Isn't this fun?

What are you working out to this week?

Link up!

Exercise Finder

2011-08-25T15:37:00.000-06:00

Everyone should check out this website.

It helps you find the exercises best suit to your problem areas.

Workout Song of the Week

2011-08-22T11:45:00.000-06:00

This week's workout song:

Dust

by Eric Himan

Anyone who reads my other blog knows how much I love Eric.

Not only is he an amazing musician, but a great interactive facebook friend,

and very kind human being.

I love this song, and it's got a good beat to work out to!

What are you working out to this week?

Link up!

Fat Ass Friday

2011-08-19T11:03:00.000-06:00

You know, I totally forgot to weigh myself today.

Which is probably a good thing-I don't need to inspire self loathing.

I'm having a really hard time getting back on track after vacation.

I ate so many carbs (they really affect me I'm finding) that my body got re-addicted.

So now I'm trying (and failing a little) to kick the carbs again.

The first week I was back I did really poorly.

This week I wanted to juice all week-but have only ended up juicing most of the day.
Then eating dinner at night-and not necessarily healthy dinner unfortunately.

Oh well, tomorrow is another day right?

I need to get back on track badly.

Body shot-sent to my date so he'd know what to expect.

I have a date on Monday.

This is my first date in over a year, and the first time I've been excited for it in 2 years.

This is a big deal for me, and I feel sooooo huge.

I really wanted to lose 5lbs before then, but that's not happening apparently.

Also, we went bra shopping last night.

Trying things on and looking in those unforgiving mirrors-tragedy.

I felt like it spiraled me down into self-hate mode!

I don't want to feel like that!

I want to feel pretty and sexy before my date.

And honestly-if he doesn't like me because I'm fat-then he's the wrong one.

Take me for what I am

Who I was meant to be

And if you give a damn

Take me baby, or leave me.

I'm still going to get fit, but that shouldn't hold me back from dating...

What do you think?

Why She Walks

2011-08-18T09:56:00.000-06:00

Hey lovelies, I have an amazing guest post for you today. It is written from one of my very dear bloggy friends Janna. Janna is such an amazing human being, and I strive every day to have the compassion and dedication she does. Not only is she the first to send me a card when I'm feeling blue, but she is out there walking miles and miles in support of friends and family who are fighting one of the hardest fights. Cancer. I am simply amazed by her.

Please take a moment and read this, and if you can help at all it would be greatly appreciated.

♥ ♥ ♥

My name is Janna and I am participating in my 5th Breast Cancer 3-Day in Washington D.C. in 39 days.

When I sit and think about why I walk…I think about this lady.

This is my friend Dawn. I have know Dawn for nearly 10 years now…all by chance. She worked at the corporate office for a company I worked for that was located in Illinois. (I am in Texas) We created a bond so strong that neither distance nor changes in jobs could break up our friendship.

Dawn is a cancer survivor. A Breast Cancer Survivor.

So is her sister.

And now her mom Pat started her fight on August 15, 2011

“My mom got through Lymph Node surgery today with 4-5 lymph nodes taken out. It will be Thursday before she gets results. She will be undergoing Radiation and the rest of the treatment will depend if it has spread into the Lymph Nodes.”

This family has seen their fair share. MANY families have seen their fair share.

Breast Cancer knows no bounds…

I walk for Dawn, her sister AND her mother Pat, Pam (who beat breast cancer and is now fighting a new cancer battle) Elizabeth, LeeAllan, Louise-Paula, Arthanise (who lost her battle this year), Nancy, Dianne, Mary Ellen, Laurie, Delia's Mom, for my new friend Nancy (who was just recently diagnosed) and for any woman who has ever had to or ever will have to go through this horrible disease.

I also walk for my nieces…Sarah, Ashley, Megan & Mallory. I walk for Amy’s daughter Jules, so that they may never have to deal with this disease.

I walk for a cure. I walk for those who can’t. I walk for those who lost their battles. I walk for YOU.

In order to walk I must raise $2300. I have booked my flight and my hotel room. I am COMMITED to walk for a cure.

Can you help me with my fundraising goal? Every little bit helps.

Please visit my Breast Cancer 3-Day Fundraising site: www.the3day.org/goto/jannagoestodc

Level One Excersize Plan

2011-08-16T12:47:00.000-06:00

Workout Song of the Week

2011-08-15T08:45:00.001-06:00

This week's song:

Gold Digger

Glee Version

I love glee.

I love this song and Shu is sexy.

It's not a heavy work out song, but a fun move your hips workout.

Enjoy!

What are you working out to this week?

6 Week Work Out Plan

2011-08-11T11:31:00.002-06:00

Work For It

2011-08-10T08:51:00.002-06:00

Unstoppable

2011-08-09T12:52:00.002-06:00

I'm back!

2011-08-08T14:57:00.000-06:00

Hello lovelies, I'm back from my big adventure.

You can read all about it HERE.

I'm skipping my usual post because I'm exhausted, but I wanted to stop in and say hi to all you lovelies. I've missed you!!! I'm pretty sure I gained a bunch of weight back on vacation-but oh well. I'm so not weighing myself until next FAF (so not really this Friday either) so I have more than a week to recover and don't get depressed when I look at the scale.

I made a rule saying I couldn't count calories on the vacation.

I wanted to eat and have fun and not stress.

But man, I can tell you-I really don't care for doughnuts anymore, so Voodoo Doughnuts was wasted on me. All I wanted to drink was water, so the other stuff was kind of gross... And by the end of the trip all I wanted was to get back home to my fruits, veggies and juices! I was also missing my hula hoop really badly!

Plus, this beauty has been waiting for me:

Thanks Beth & Haley! :)

How did you guys do while I was gone?

How are you feeling?

Anything new?

Exercise Plan

2011-08-05T09:17:00.000-06:00

Hi guys! It's Friday, so I'm living it up in Seattle with Miss Beth.

For now, enjoy some tips!

Guest Post: Believe

2011-08-04T08:08:00.002-06:00

Hey lovelies! Still on my trip (I should be in Portland today) so here's a lovely post by Miss Janna, one of my best bloggy buddies, encouraging you to Believe.

***

My girl Angie is busy getting her vacation on…and I couldn’t be happier for her. I know she really needed some time away. I only hope she remembers to send me a post card or two! And I hope she tells Beth HI for me!

At the beginning of this year I picked a word. I am sure somewhere along the way I have seen this or heard about this. But this year more than ever I needed a word. Something to help guide my lost self into getting back on track.

I chose the word BELIEVE. So I thought I would tell you what that word means to me right now…

B Begin somewhere

E Everyday is a new day

L Live

I Imagine

E Exercise your mind

V Value your friendships

E Exercise your body

We all falter at times and I am NO stranger to that…ESPECIALLY this year! But the trick is to reach out and remember that your friends will be there and that you are ALWAYS stronger than you think you are!

So I challenge you to BELIEVE. Believe in yourself!

“Success means having the courage, the determination, and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be”

“Believe and act as if it were impossible to fail.”

Thanks again Angie…HAVE A GREAT TIME!

Erase Arm Flab

2011-08-03T15:14:00.000-06:00

Hey lovelies, it's wednesday so I'm somewhere along the coast of Oregon.

Here's some tips!

Guest Post: Bernie Takes a Zumba Class

2011-08-02T08:03:00.000-06:00

Hey everone! I'm on vacation, so Bernie is here today to fill in with a lively tale of how she took a Zumba class after being inspired by our 21 day project. It's rather hilarious, so I hope you get a good giggle out of it too! You can stop by and visit Bernie too!

***

Zumba Kicked My Ass

My friend Teresa raved about Zumba, telling me things like: “It is fun.”; “I love it.”; “My kids love it.”; “It doesn’t feel like working out.”; and so on. I lost track of all the great things she said about Zumba. Something in the back of my mind suggested that I look into it because I should augment my sedentary life with some sort of masochistic hobby that involves getting the heart rate up, convinces muscles to scream out their objections, and makes me sweat like a whore on dollar day. This was the month to take action.

I told Mr. Bernie that if there was a class in our part of town, then I would go to it. We live just outside of town and I was pretty sure this was a deal I wouldn’t have to cash in on. I got a wild hair and decided to look at the Zumba website. I was confident that they wouldn’t have one in our part of town. You see, exercising is bad enough. To have to stay in town, or travel back to town, to do it would suck. I prefer to get close to home and then avoid the crowds. I put in our zip code into the Zumba class finder and pressed enter. A nice list popped up on-screen with lots of options. I smiled as I scrolled past all the classes deep inside the city. “La la la, I’m safe.”, I thought. Suddenly, I stopped. There it was. A class not more than 4 miles from my home scrolled into view. What the hell?

Nooooooooooooo!! How in the hell did that get there? I may have said something that rhymes with duck and starts with an f and ends with a uck and am sure that it wasn’t ‘Fire Truck’. I had great hopes it was a mix up. Perhaps the class had folded. Maybe it was a typo? Who knows. I emailed the instructor to get some details.

My whiny email about how much I don’t want to exercise; questions about cost and location; and concerns about getting into something that I wasn’t ready for were answered fairly quickly. I was afraid she was going to call, sound like a five-year old girl, and start to preach about the power of Zumba. On the contrary, the instructor was very nice and not too perky. Thank God! The class is a steal at a dollar and a half per session. I don’t think Little Debbie snack cakes are still only $1.50. I told her a bit about myself and my concerns. She addressed my concerns and reassured me that I wouldn’t die, but I had to sign a waiver when I went to my first class. Does that make you shudder a little in fear the way that I did? I asked about the types of people who are in her class. She explained that there were everything from young to old, thin to fat, and so on. It was a virtual melting pot of women shaking their stuff. Whee. How Fun. She told me just how to get to the class and made me feel at ease.

The day of my first class I was pretty nervous. There was that waiver that had to be signed. I hardly ever get aches and pains. However, on that day I was sure my right knee was going to fall off. I must have something wrong with my foot. Was there something wrong with my breathing? Maybe I should stay home if I’m feeling so poorly. I think I made myself limp to test it out to be sure that all my parts were not going to hold up. Psychosomatic?
Noooooo
! Well ok, maybe. My first class was to be after work. I needed to get some sustenance before class. Mr. Bernie tried to push some energy bar thing on me. Too late, I already had my huge hunk of turtle bar type thing. It was really tasty. Mr. Bernie just shook his head and told me I needed to eat something good for me. Ya, ya, good for me. That turtle bar in my tummy sure tasted good to me. I started getting ready for class. I had to find my Enell sports bra. I have a love hate relationship with that bitch. Its 15 hooks and she really holds me in. I mean really holds me in tight. I had a hard time bending over to put on my shoes. I pinched part of my boob when I was hooking it up. Ouch! Once prepared for class, I thought that I would burn up some spare time by talking with Jenny.

Jenny tried to calm me down before class. “You know Bern, if you like the class. I will take one here in Duluth.” Since when did I become the measuring stick for stuff? Then she told me, “Try to remember some of the songs so you can tell me which ones they had.” She has a tween and knows about the new music. I explained to her as nicely as I could, “I don’t know about these damn dance songs. How in the holy hell could I remember the names to tell you? I will be sweating my ass off and trying not to feel self-conscious about having no idea what I am doing. Chances are that I won’t even recognize a word, let alone who the artist was. Don’t expect a report back to you on it!” She laughed at me and told me to have a good time. The bitch. The time had finally arrived to go out and play.

I arrived to class a bit early. I left a little early to make sure that I found it in time. I wanted to scope out the women going to class. I also wanted to stop peeing every five minutes like a puppy from nervousness. People started going up to a table to hand over money. I fell into line. It reminded me of going to a girl scout meeting and standing in line to hand in my dues. This ‘girl scout meeting’ was on steroids, though. The instructor guessed who I was when I arrived. She was friendly and welcoming. I asked her where the back of the room was. I wanted to make sure that I was in the back corner so I could feel in control. Screw that Dirty Dancing line, ‘Nobody puts Baby in a corner.” I adjusted the old song to meet my needs. I said to myself, “Bernie puts Bernie in a corner. Hopefully nobody will bother me.”

I wandered into the (hardwood looking basketball room or whatever it was) and found a nice corner to claim. I looked around and sized all the gals up. Some of the little people were in cliques. Kind of like High School all over again. No big shock there. Others were standing around – or doing jumping jacks – or picking their noses and looking more lost than I felt at the time. I did some stretching and tried not to make eye contact with anyone. The time came to start the class. The instructor walked to the front of the room and asked everyone how they were doing. The crowd yelled back, “Great!” or something like that. I don’t normally listen to the type of music that started playing. I’m an old-fashioned country music gal. This was new for me on many levels. I prayed my ears wouldn’t bleed and started moving with the rest of the crowd. There are particular moves that one must learn to Zumba and I found myself staring at the instructor.

It is easiest too learn the steps by watching from behind the instructor. I loved that she was not facing us. It made it much easier for me to follow the steps. I felt like a pervert, because my husband would have thought that she did have a nice ass. The dance started out mild. At first I thought I was at Cheerleader or Dance Line camp. Everyone was moving their arms back and forth, and around, and so on. Slap some pom-pom in my hand and I was ready to go. (I wasn’t a cheerleader. I have no idea what they do at those camps. I made that part up.) I thought that this wasn’t so bad. I had not yet realized that the festivities were just getting started.

After several songs we started jumping, squatting, rolling our stomachs, and performing about a hundred other unfamiliar body movements. We were squirming, and wriggling, and stepping around like Ginger Rogers with Fred Astaire. We were working at a fevered frenzy that had me a breathing harder than a multiple orgasm. I thought that my brain was going to explode. Then came a question that I never expected. The instructor yelled, “Is everyone warmed up??’!! What the hell? I’m sweating like a whore on dollar day and she wants to know if we are warmed up? I was sweating in spots I didn’t know sweated. I panicked. I gave up any pretense of wanting to be left alone. I turned to the gal next to me with red face, sweat dripping, and eyes wild. I said to her, “Oh my god! That was a warm up? Really? That was only a warm up? Tell my husband I loved him because I think my time has come.” She laughed and explained that it was half way through class. It was all downhill from here. I wanted so much to kiss her or offer to have her baby – Anything to show my appreciation.

Things did slow down after a few more songs. The cool down cycle included slower and more seductive movements. I almost felt like a pole dancer a few times. I was supposed to be moving in a sexy way, though I’m sure that I looked more like a beached whale wriggling around. I started to relax and thought I was doing pretty good. I woke up out of that daydream when I realized that I was moving my left arm and everyone else was moving their right. Rule number six is: No daydreaming in Zumba!!

Finally, the class ended. I wasn’t feeling to bad – not yet, anyway. The gal next to me had gone 5 times and encouraged me to return on Thursday. She promised me that it will get easier. She gave me some tips. I thought that she was nice. I went home and flopped on the couch. Remember that part about not feeling to bad? It started creeping up on me like tidal wave creeps up on a beach. I swear I thought my legs and arms were going to fall off. They were drained of energy and felt like lead. Mr Bernie made supper and fed me. I was through but still to somehow take off my bra with its 15 hooks, shower, and make it to my pillow. I felt satisfied as I drifted off to sleep knowing that I had done it and lived to tell the tale. I think I may have even enjoyed it. My body is out on that verdict so far. Let us give it a few weeks. I’ll be going to class again tonight. I think I keep hearing my knee popping……

I would love to challenge you guys to take a Zumba class and blog about it. I would love to hear what you guys think of it. Here is the Zumba Finder website to help you find a class in your area.

Thank you to Julie from Tri-ing to be Athletic for the cool picture! When I told her about the Zumba class she said, “Oh, I love Zumba. I sweat a lot.” WTH? This is a girl who swims, bikes works out and she sweats a lot in that class? Kill me now. You can see more of her cool stick figures on her blog. If you want/need a special picture made for you, email her for rates. She also made my About Me picture that I won in her contest.

Antioxidants

2011-08-01T15:11:00.001-06:00

No workout song this week, on the account of me being in San Francisco right now! :)

I'll leave you this:

Guest Post: It's Not Just the Scale

2011-07-31T07:31:00.000-06:00

I'm on Vacation, but never fear-I've lined up some awesome guest posters! For example, miss Beth is here today to help remind us all that getting fit isn't all about the numbers on the scale. I think it's very important (I've been a victim of the poor thinking a lot!) and I think she voices it well.

Leave her some love, these are great tips!

***

Beth here, from Living a Goddess Life, with a tip for all you amazing folks who are currently working toward getting healthier and more svelte.

It's really easy to determine progress by pounds lost, and then get frustrated when the scale doesn't reward us for our hard work. Trust me, I know (and also, as a curious, nosy, and well-read woman who has been working on losing weight and getting fit since age 15, I feel qualified to lend some advice).

When you're talking about changing the mass of your body, this isn't on the same par as, say, getting your hair cut. This is something your body will fight against for a while, because it's programmed to keep you safe from famine.

Getting fit requires a long view!

Don't think of it in terms of "I lose, or I gain".
Don't weigh yourself every day.
Don't measure your progress by the progress of others- your path to wellness is as unique as your thumbprint.
And don't assume that weight gain means fat gain.

DO measure inches (being consistent in where you measure) in addition to weight- sometimes you can lose inches in your waist and no pounds at all....and aren't inches a measure of progress, too?
DO track your progress in weeks and months, and set your goals for 6-12 months away.
DO drink a lot of water and be active every day. Remember, some weight gain is food waste, some is swelling, and some is muscle.

DO exercise a cardio routine of your choice, 3-5 days per week AND try some muscle-building (even if it's just lifting cans of refried beans for 50 reps a day). Gaining muscle will boost your metabolism, assisting in burning fat.
DO combine eating less with moving more. You must do BOTH parts of this equation to be healthy and ensure stable, long-term fat loss.

DO reward yourself for progress. It's a lot easier to hate on yourself for gaining than it is to be your own cheering squad. Make your reward something non-food based, like a new outfit, a new book, 30 minutes of 'me' time, a massage, etc.
DO forgive yourself for not reaching goals, and move on. If you don't feel like you've made progress after 30 days or more, vary your routine or amp it up. Our bodies get in ruts of efficiency, and you have to shake things up with a new workout routine, or cutting out certain food items.

DO get others involved- you are more likely to lose weight if you have a support system. Also, we tend to adapt our eating habits to those we live with, so get the whole family excited and involved in it!
DO let yourself have those treats you've been craving (in moderation), but balance it by working out twice as much the next day, or restricting calories by that much, etc. Again, take the long view.

Fat Ass Friday

2011-07-29T09:20:00.002-06:00

Starting weight: 276.6
Last week's weight: 271.6
Current weight: 265.8
Weight +GAIN / -LOSS this week: -5.8

Total weight lost: -10.8

Wahoo! A loss! Yaaaay!

I've been juicing quite a bit this week again. Since I'm going on a super awesome road trip and plan to eat all sorts of vacation-y local food in foodie towns like Seattle, San Francisco, and Portland-I felt the need to eat really healthy this week to prepare.

There were a lot of factors that made me afraid of the scale this morning. I've had a really rough week emotionally, so I didn't get very much sleep, I didn't monitor my water intake like I should, and there were a lot of times I had no appetite so I just skipped eating all together. Tuesday was the worst, I was such an emotional wreck that I made myself dizzy from not eating. The roommate had to remind me that I needed to whether I wanted to or not, so I broke down and drank a juice.

Also, yesterday I had Sushi, Soup, and cheesecake... Not exactly healthy. Though I may have burned most of that off helping Julie move furniture around too. I was really surprised (and happy) to see the loss this week. Let's hope the vacation doesn't totally screw me up!

Food Combining

2011-07-28T08:20:00.002-06:00

Blog Lovin'

2011-07-27T10:40:00.001-06:00

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

100 Calorie Comparisons

2011-07-27T09:02:00.002-06:00

Source: healthyfitandtoned.tumblr.com via Angela on Pinterest

Guest Posters Needed!

2011-07-26T10:59:00.001-06:00

Hey lovelies!

I need some guest posts for both this blog and for My So-Called Chaos, anyone interested?

Have something to say about health? Tips to share? I need you! :)

I'll be out of town all next week and would love it if you'd send me a post. Use the Contact Me tab at the top to message me, or leave me a comment with your email-or if you know my email-email me! :)

Loves!

Workout Song of the Week

2011-07-25T09:25:00.000-06:00

This week's song is:

Vanity

by Christina Aguilera

*Note: This song is for mature audiences, if you're offended by swearing or by a little dirty talk you might want to skip this week's song.*

This song is great to work out to because it's empowering. It may be a bit crass, but man it feels good to sing along while working out and say "Who's the sexiest of them all, I AM" etc. A little vanity is good for you every now and then!

What's your song this week?

Hula Hoop Sale!

2011-07-22T12:07:00.000-06:00

Hey, for those of you who've expressed interest in getting a hula hoop to work out with, my dear blog friend Haley is having a HUGE hula hoop sale.

Get a collapsible travel hoop

3 tape color choices

Shipping

All included for only $28!

This is a STEAL!

Go check it out!

Fat Ass Friday

2011-07-22T08:21:00.001-06:00

Starting weight: 276.6
Last week's weight: 266.4
Current weight: 271.6
Weight +GAIN / -LOSS this week: +5.2

Total weight lost: -5

UGH.

How the hell did I gain back 5lbs this week?

I'm back to wanting to throw myself off a bridge again.

Yes, I started eating again and I splurged once or twice, but I didn't think it was 5lbs worth of it... And I've been hooping a lot and getting a good workout from it-what the hell.

I want to tear my hair out.

And simultaneously give up/keep going.

EFF my life. I hate my body so much.

I am so angry right now, I can't even finish this post...

How'd you do this week?

What Are Your Kids Drinking?

2011-07-21T12:24:00.002-06:00

We all want our kids to be healthy too (in my case-it's my honorary nieces and nephews), but goodness knows it's not always the easiest task. Sometimes kids wont eat a thing, they just flat out refuse it-let alone trying to get them to eat things that are healthy for them.

source: Growing Raw

Getting them started at a very young age eating fruits and veggies is key, but for those that didn't manage to get them started early enough-turning it around can be difficult. One of the best places to start shaping up their eating habits is with their liquids. Liquids play a large part in the nutrition your child is taking in, so it's important to monitor what they are drinking.

source: PregnancyAwareness.com

Remember my article on why Soda really isn't any good for you? If not, check out: Are You Pouring on the Pounds? Well the same applies to your children. Soda and sugary beverages have been linked to childhood obesity and early age diabetes. It's nothing but empty calories, it rots their little teeth, depletes calcium from their bones (which can stunt growth), decreases appetite so they're less likely to eat nutritional food, and many other downfalls. There's just not much good that can be said about it.

See also:
10 Reasons to Keep Kids Off Soda
Is Drinking Soda Pop Harming Our Kids?

source: Top News

The same really goes for Juice and other sugary drinks. Most of the bottled/canned juices you buy in the supermarket is from concentrate and then have massive amounts of sugar added to make them sweeter. In those cases, if you read the label you'll find that they really only have about 10% actual fruit juice! We can say this is better than soda pop, but only in the fact that it has a few less negative side affects.

So what can you do to help your kids and their drinks?

Always read the label. Look for juice that says it's 100% Fruit Juice. Avoid anything that calls itself punch, cocktail, or "ade" (you know, lemonade, limeade, etc.)
Check the ingredients. Look for specific items you don't want-if it has High Fructose Corn Syrup or Crystaline Fructose-avoid it. Also-arteficial sweeteners are massively sweeter than sugar, and also have been suspected of chemically harming developing brains.
Look at the juice. Generally the cloudier the juice is, the more nutritious it will be.
Mix it with water. Go half and half-half juice and half water. My friend Kristina has been doing this since her kids were babies, so her children don't even know what full on sweet fruit juice tastes like and they get more water intake that way.
Make it yourself. Buy a juicer and put your own fruits and vegetables through it. This is extremely beneficial in nutrients as well as you're able to sneak more veggies into your kids diets by disguising them with sweet fruit. Plus, it's all natural.

For more detailed info: The Truth About Pure Fruit Juices vs. Fruit Beverages.

source: TLC Family

Here are some great sites for homemade juice recipes:

Juicing for Kids - healthyjuicecentral.com
Homemade Healthy Juice Drinks for Kids - iFood.com
Homemade Healthy Vegetable Juice Drink - suite101.com

And as always, water is the best drink you can ever give them!

source: Drinking Water Fountains

How do you keep your kids healthy?

How does what they drink play into that for you?

What I'm Loving This Week

2011-07-20T09:39:00.001-06:00

My Hula Hoop.

Yes, I know I mention it every time, but I'm still in love.

I can't wait to earn myself the body of a hula hooper.

I swear my Hula Hoop is saving my life with every turn.

Buy it HERE.

Hooping: A Revolutionary Fitness Program

I ordered this book on Amazon just to fill in so I could get the Super Saver Shipping when I ordered something else, and I am so glad that I did! I love it! It teaches you proper stretching with your hoop, basic moves, advanced moves and even talks to you about diet and the benefits of hooping physically and emotionally. And man, I get an amazing workout trying to do some of the tricks in here!

Naked Juices

All natural, no sugar added.

Tons of fruits, veggies and boosts in each bottle.

This is helping me stick to the Juice cleanse, even when I don't have time to juice!

B Vitamins

I miss caffeine, but at least I have my vitamin B!

Cherries

I bought a bag of fresh cherries from the Farmers Market last week.

This has made the ultimate little snack, especially when I want something sweet!

What are you loving this week?
Any little useful tips or tricks you're into lately?

15 Foods that Boost Your Metabolism

2011-07-19T10:18:00.000-06:00

Source: None via Angela on Pinterest

Workout Song of the Week

2011-07-18T10:08:00.000-06:00

This week's song:

Kiss With a Fist

by Florence + TheMachine

I LOVE this song. It's Kick-A and it makes me feel all bad ass.

What are you working out to this week?

Fat Ass Friday

2011-07-15T09:37:00.002-06:00

This has been an interesting week on the weight-loss front. There has been a lot of loss, some frustration-and more fruits and vegetables than I've ever eaten in such a short amount of time. This cleanse has certainly been an eye opener and a very interesting life experience for me.

First of all-they say "only in America are our poorest people also our fattest" and I have learned more than usual how this is true. Why on earth do we charge so much for fruit but offer the crappiest, fake, worst-for-you food in a box for 50¢? My roommate tells me in Europe it's the other way around-maybe that's one of the reasons they're so much healthier than we are. I mean a quarter of a cart of fruits and vegetables ran me about $60 the other day.

Anyway-onto a rundown of how I've done on the cleanse so far.

Day 1: Started on Friday as mentioned in last week's FAF post. I was fine most of the day, but then 1pm hit and I crashed hard. By 3pm I had a caffeine headache and had to take a painkiller just to make it through the rest of the day. Lost 3lbs!
Day 2: I expected to be thoroughly down and out for days 2 and 3, and when morning of day 2 rolled around I was exhausted-slept a few extra hours but when I finally got up I felt surprisingly ok. Lost 2lbs.
Day 3: Still going strong, not too exhausted but still not enough energy to work out yet. Lost 2lbs.
Day 4: Felt much more energy, started hula-hooping again and decided I could add some solid fruits and vegetables into my diet. Drank less juice-No loss this day.
Day 5: Drank more juice than day 4, still ate fruits and veggies. Exercised hard. Lost 1.5lbs.
Day 6: Didn't do well as far as the Juice and water went, but exercised well- Lost .5lbs.
Day 7: Yesterday. Had my juice for breakfast and lunch, but then went most of the day without water. Went from work to home, then to the bar (didn't drink anything) then directly to the Harry Potter premier so I didn't get a chance to eat again until 11pm, and at that point my choices were limited. I got a grilled chicken sandwhich on whole wheat. Gained 1lb!

I'm not going to really sweat the fact that I broke my diet (it was kind of necessary) or that I gained a lb. It was my fault, everything I did contributed to it.

I didn't drink enough water-so I probably retained some.
I didn't make time to exercise.
I ate way too late in the evening-so it sat on my body while I slept.
I waited too long to eat-probably causing my body to go into starvation mode.
I didn't drink enough juice-not enough nutrients-again starvation mode.

All I can do is learn from that mistake, and celebrate the fact that it's only one measly pound. Probably just fluctuation anyway-but it's a great reminder of what I need to do to achieve my goals.

Results:

Starting weight: 276.6
Last week's weight: 274.2
Current weight: 266.4
Weight +GAIN / -LOSS this week: -7.8
Total weight lost: -10.2

I'm calling that pretty good for a week's work.

In case you missed it:

Tuesday I listed the Top 10 Reasons To Continue My Juice Fast.
Thursday I shared a photo that shows the scan of a 250lb woman compared to that of a 125lb woman. If you missed it, you should really look at it. It'll change the way you think. It's Disgusting!

I highly recommend you read:

This great article on how to deal with weight loss plateaus.
Heather wrote about The Crooked Path to Wellness. I especially loved that she brought up that the word "Cheat" is a negative word, when we should just call it a diversion. Positive self talk is so important.
Kristin offered amazing advice for us all in How to Climb the Weight Loss Wall...

How did you do this week?

Don't forget to link up over at Brandy's!

Disgusting!

2011-07-14T10:28:00.002-06:00

Left: 250lb woman. Right: 125lb woman.

I came across this picture on Pinterest the other day, and was completely disgusted. I showed my roommate and asked him "Is that what my body looks like on the inside?" He simply responded with "Yep."

If anything ever hit the need for weightloss home hard, this would be it. Look at how the 250lb woman has fat surrounding all of her organs? It's NASTY! Even her brain has Fatty bits in it!

Her bones don't sit right and her ankles look like they're buckling from the stress of all the extra pounds. It's not natural, and definitely not healthy.

I think I need to hang this on my fridge to remind me why I'm doing this. It's not to look prettier (though that's a BIG plus!) but to BE HEALTHY.

As for a positive, I lost another half a pound yesterday... It's steadily getting less and less that I lose per day on this cleanse, but I'll take it where I can get it.

How does this picture make you feel?

Please share with me!

The 10lb Mark!

2011-07-13T09:10:00.000-06:00

I hit the 10lb mark today!

That's 10.6lbs lost so far.

I so can't wait until I hit the 20lb mark.

Also, today's juice is much more tolerable with:

It's a lot better than the green juice yesterday which was yicky.

I still miss regular food a lot, but seeing the loss on the scale keeps me going.

How's your journey coming along?

Top 10 Reasons to Continue my Juice Fast

2011-07-12T08:26:00.001-06:00

I lost 7lbs in 3 days!
Each morning I see at least a 2lb weight difference. (Except yesterday was no loss, which sucks royally! Oh well...)
If it continues like this, I may hit 20lbs by the end of my 10 day fast!
I've never drank this much water in my life-it's good!
If I start following his recipes, it'll taste better/I'll like it better.
I'm sending massive amounts of necessary nutrients into my body.
I'm setting a good example for those around me.
Healthy energy levels are returning without the use of caffeine!
My pants are feeling much more loose!
My skin is starting to clear up a bit!

I just have to keep going, I'm half way through ten days today.

I may switch to a 15 day plan, so I may be a third of the way done!

Workout Song of the Week

2011-07-11T08:40:00.000-06:00

This week's Workout Song:

Only Girl

by Rhianna

The first time I ever really paid attention to this song, was in Lucky Cheng's (a drag bar in NYC) when a rather hilarious drag queen entered the room and was loving up on the patrons. It was hilarious-but boy could that queen dance! He got a massive workout, so it got me thinking-I could use this in my workout routines! Huzzah!

Plus, who doesn't want to feel like the only girl in the world?

What song are you working out to this week?

Starting Day 2 With a LOSS!

2011-07-09T12:59:00.001-06:00

It's day 2 of the Juice Cleanse I'm doing, so I thought I'd take a minute to update you guys-for those of you following the progress.

Day 1- I felt great all morning. Had my juice for breakfast, weighed myself at start to find I'd lost 2.4 lbs, and was trooping along just fine. About 1:00pm I became exhausted and sluggish, which I'm chalking up to it being the caffeine I had denied myself-as I'm giving this my all. I fell asleep for about 20 minutes on the couch when I got home, but got my second wind in time to go hang out with a bunch of friends.

The hardest part so far has been the social situations. Where friends are like "Let's go get pizza this weekend!" and I have to reply with "I can't, I can't eat anything solid for 10 days." Or when we're all at the bar and they want to get me a drink, or go to Denny's after. But I stuck to my guns and after this morning I'm so glad I did!

I weighed myself, and I know I shouldn't weigh myself two days in a row-but I'm glad I did!

Beginning weight: 276.6

Starting Cleanse weight: 274.2

Today's weight: 271.2

I lost 3lbs since starting my cleanse!

That's 5.4lbs total in my weight loss journey!

I could not be more excited!

So far today I'm extra tired, so I'll probably take some B vitamins to up my energy level-but I do feel thinner. It's so awesome to see this progress!

Fat Ass Friday #6

2011-07-08T09:07:00.000-06:00

Starting weight: 276.6
Last week's weight: 276.6
Current weight: 274.2
Weight +GAIN / -LOSS this week: -2.4
Total weight lost: -2.4

Weird face, bad bathroom photo-CUTE outfit!

Yeah the picture is a bad mirror shot, and I'm making a goofy face, but I'm determined to post pictures of me through this process-and I thought my new outfit was cute! So there you have it.

I guess I can't get too excited until I get over that 5lb mark, since 2lbs is nothing when it comes to fluctuation-but it was good to see some kind of sign! I'll take it and use it to keep pushing me in the right direction!

Not my juice, but similar! Found HERE

Also, today marks the first day of my Reboot. I'm having my first juiced meal, and I have to say it's not bad for just being anything we could find in the fridge last night. It has Grapes, Blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, watermelon, celery, broccoli, apples, carrots, and kiwi in it. I have another bottle in the fridge waiting for me at lunch too. I can do this!

How did you do this week?

Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead

2011-07-07T08:57:00.001-06:00

I watched the documentary Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead with Josh and David Monday night instead of going out and watching the fireworks. However, I felt like it was some kind of awesome-like my own fireworks going off in my head ignited by my desperate need to do something about my body.

Despite the fact that I gave up soda 6 months ago, gave up candy a month and a half ago, and have been limiting my carb/sugar intake in general along with hula hooping every day-I haven't lost a pound. Remember how devastated I was when I weighed in last week? Something has to give-and this documentary was just the idea I needed.

You see the story follows Joe Cross and how he found himself Fat, Sick (an auto-immune disorder), and considered himself nearly dead from it all. He bought himself a juicer and went on a 60 day juice fast. He was monitored by doctors (before you worry that it's unhealthy) the entire time, and ended up losing massive amounts of weight and curing his auto-immune disorder. Take a look at the trailer:

The trucker you see in the trailer? I started crying when he called and begged for help. It was moving, and to watch him go from 429 lbs to 298lbs in just the documentary (plus he kept losing after) and start weening off of all of his medication, was amazing. If they can make such an amazing change-why can't I?

Josh went and bought us this pretty little juicer, and I've signed up at Reboot Your Life (the site is really slow right now-apparently the Netflix release of the documentary has them swamped all of the sudden) and I start tomorrow. I'll drink my first juiced meal after I weigh myself tomorrow morning (which I'll report in my FAF post tomorrow) and start my 10+ day journey on the Juice fast. I'm thinking I'll just be hungry tomorrow, then I'll probably crash on Saturday and Sunday-but hoping I start feeling a bit better by Monday. I'll keep you all posted along the way.

Wish me luck!

This Week I am Loving:

2011-07-06T09:31:00.000-06:00

My Hula Hoop

Ever since I figured it out and started making it work for me, I can barely put it down! I want to take it with me every where and do it all the time!

SmartWater.

Yes I realize it's just more expensive water.

But it has extra electrolytes and I swear it tastes sweeter than normal water.

Also, I get the really big bottle and keep refilling it. It helps me keep track!

Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead

It's a documentary by Joe Cross and I watched it on Netflix.

It's amazing, and I'm starting the same cleanse on Friday!

More details to come soon, I promise.

The Green Smoothie Girl Smoothie from Roxberry

The basic one has Spinach, Kale, mixed berries, Bananas, Peaches and Agave. The discovery of this makes me happy, because should I forget to grab a smoothie on my way out the door during my cleanse, I can order one from here! :) I had it today, the 24oz has 150calories and 11 servings of fruits and veggies in it and it's only $4.95!

Tube Dresses

Still addicted and buying them when I can find a good deal on them.

LOVE LOVE LOVE!

WaterLogged App
This app gives me a goal (64oz) to shoot for, and then I enter the water I drink throughout the day and it keeps track for me. Also, if I haven't entered any water for the day, it alerts me to do so. I love it! I feel like it's a challenge to drink my water every day!

What are you loving this week?

My Newest Obession

2011-07-05T08:26:00.000-06:00

As you all know, I bought a hula-hoop from the amazingly talented Haley a while back and have been trying to learn. At first, I didn't do so well and got really frustrated with it-but after some drunken tutoring from sweet Isha and my friend Doug-I was able to finally get it to go around a few times before it fell. Still not great, but better than the one or two times I was getting it before...

However this weekend I finally figured it out! All it took was learning how my body moved with it-which isn't necessarily the way everyone else can get it to work. I was coached to go in circles, to go front to back in a thrusting motion, and finally found that I can do it better if I swing my hips side to side at first and then move into a more circular motion.

Ever since I figured it out, I am LOVING it!

I'm seriously addicted.

Look at this amazing video!

I want to be like her!

Not only am I having fun with this, but I'm getting good exercise with it too!

Do you have any new obsessions that are helping you?

Stay Strong

2011-07-04T08:54:00.000-06:00

You can do this.

You are strong and amazing.

Keep it up, and soon you will look back and think it was nothing.

Thinspiration Sunday

2011-07-03T15:56:00.000-06:00

The best six doctors anywhere
And no one can deny it
Are sunshine, water, rest, and air
Exercise and diet.
These six will gladly you attend
If only you are willing
Your mind they'll ease
Your will they'll mend
And charge you not a shilling.
~Nursery rhyme quoted by Wayne Fields, What the River Knows, 1990

Fat Ass Friday #5: Discouragements

2011-07-01T09:42:00.002-06:00

I weighed myself today.

I really shouldn't have.

All week I've been feeling so good about things.

I'm feeling a bit slimmer around my ribs, and don't feel like I'm spilling over my jeans.

I tried on a smaller pair of jeans and they fit-very snug-but they fit more than before!

I kept telling myself just a few more pounds and I'd be in them.

I've also been feeling pretty in my dresses.'

I do still look adorable.

And then I thought to myself

"Why not weigh myself since I'm feeling like I've made a difference?"

Hopped on the scale and there it was.

276lbs

(This is the first time I've publicly shared that number.)

Still the biggest I've ever been.

Almost no change from when I weighed myself months ago.

Was giving up soda pointless? 6 months of it and no help!

How about not eating candy? It's been over a month and still no luck.

I've been eating well, even started exersizing -I've hula-hooped every day this week.

And no flipping change.

Not one damn pound.

F. M. L.

I'll admit it, I cried a little.

It's so damned frustrating-and even harder to not give up now.

What the hell is wrong with me?

Yes, I understand that I'm still struggling with my water drinking. But you think with all the millions of other changes I've made there would be some progress. I feel like nothing will ever work, and maybe I should just accept how I am and stop trying to fight it. What's the point in continually fighting a battle you can't win?

It's really hard not to let the negativity overtake me at this point.

Have any of you had this problem?

I could use some advice...

On to the regular post...

BONUS!

2011-06-30T11:32:00.000-06:00

A quick reminder:

The Let's Get Healthy Giveaway ends tonight at Midnight!

Those of you reading, leave me a little comment-y love here for a BONUS entry!

The Spirit You Had Known

2011-06-29T11:18:00.000-06:00

Do you remember what it was like to be a child?

To be able to run without stopping.

And when the time came that your body could take no more,

one quick little nap and you were back up and on your way again?

Infinitely excited.

Always moving and stretching and reaching out.

Can we go back to that?

I want to feel the need to run and not stop.

To keep going, even when things don't go as planned.

To have the energy of a child again.

I don't think it's impossible.

Quick Workout

2011-06-28T11:42:00.000-06:00

How easy is that?

Just a few minutes and you're doing something good.

Do it a couple times a day, it's minimal time and better than nothing!

Workout Song of the Week #3

2011-06-27T09:31:00.000-06:00

This week's song:

Apple Bottom Jeans

by T-Pain

I really do have the most eclectic love of music.

I find this one is super fun to work out with, because you move to the beat.

I like to shake my apple bottom butt to the beat. haha

Hope you enjoy it!

Don't forget to link up!

Fat Ass Friday #4

2011-06-24T09:21:00.000-06:00

Hey lovelies! I'll admit, I wasn't nearly as focused this week as I should have been, and even caught myself snacking after 8 one night, and doing the whole grazing thing instead of eating a real dinner. BAD! Grazing is terrible, and eating after 8 is something I've decided is a no-no. Blah! This week I'm going to focus on paying more attention to what I put in my mouth, and sitting down for actual food instead of eating on the go.

On an up-note-I found a new pretty sundress that I'm in big puffy hearts with. I LOVE shopping with Julie and Elisa, they basically said "BUY THAT" when I had doubts after trying it on. I'm glad they did, it's so cute!

It looks a lot like this, only purple with a slightly different pattern:

So now I need to work on exercising more, so I can look even more cute in it!

In case you missed it:

Tuesday I encouraged you to stop saying "I wish" and start saying "I will"
Monday I offered you RESPECT to work out to. Respect yourself!
Wednesday I made it clear that I'M NOT ON A DIET.

You should see:

Joshwaa talkd about Your Shape Fitness and how it helps him work out.
Bernie took a Zumba Class and reviewed it in: Zumba Kicked My Assa
Beth wrote a great post about Counting Calories and the benefits.
Jenn posted about purging the house of "Trigger Foods." I think I'll do this too!

How did you do this week?

Don't forget to link up with Brandy for Fat Ass Friday.

Who Says Eating Healthy Can't Be Delicious?

2011-06-23T12:24:00.000-06:00

Just look at all the colors nature provides in it's food:

Now doesn't that make you want to go eat healthy?
Mmmmmmmm... I hope you crave these now. :D

Also, don't forget the giveaway!

I'm NOT On A Diet

2011-06-22T10:35:00.000-06:00

Diet's don't work.

I hate to break it to you, but diets are like trying to put a band-aid over a bullet hole and call it good. If you really want to change your life for the better, it's a lifestyle. You have to eat healthy, not just diet. I'm making a lifestyle change that I can stick with for the rest of my life. I want to be healthy, and happy. How about you?

Don't forget to enter the Let's Get Healthy Giveaway!

I WILL

2011-06-21T08:35:00.000-06:00

~~I wish I was fit.~~

I will be fit!

~~I wish I ate healthier.~~

I will eat healthier.

~~I wish I could get out and be more active.~~

I will be more active!

~~I wish I could fit in smaller clothing.~~

I will fit in smaller clothing!

~~I wish I wasn't fat.~~

I will be thin!

~~I wish I could reach my goals.~~

I will reach my goals!

~~I wish this were easier.~~

I will survive the hard parts and come out stronger!

(Don't forget to enter the giveaway!)

Workout Song of the Week #2

2011-06-20T09:44:00.000-06:00

This week's workout song is taking us back to my teenage years, but you really should respect yourself and make everyone else respect you too! Enjoy!

Percentages

2011-06-19T11:06:00.000-06:00

Happy Saturday!

Fat Ass Friday #3

2011-06-17T10:39:00.002-06:00

It's time for the weekly update! I didn't eat as well as I wanted to this week, due to the fact that I was really broke, so I pretty much bought myself a loaf of bread and ate Peanut Butter and Jelly. However, here are the positive things. I am a shaper-top addict. If I go out in public, chances are I'm wearing one, I just like the security it provides. I went to the corner store without my shaper top, and I didn't feel like I was bulging over my jeans! I felt thinner! I'm even wearing my little sundress today and I feel pretty and like I've lost a little bit (however tiny an amount) of size.

Yes it's a bad bathroom mirror shot, but I look pretty!

I realized all these good things though. I have been a NON-soda drinker for 6 months now! Also, I haven't had Candy in weeks. I still crave the candy now and again, but the willpower is strong. I don't crave soda at all, mostly just tea and water-which is good! :) Yay!

Anyway, in case you missed it, here are some of this week's highlights!

Yesterday I announced my Let's Get Healthy Giveaway! You could win an entire box full of tools and goodies to help you on your goal to getting healthy. I'm excited!
I learned a valuable lesson about cheat weekends and how you shouldn't overdo them.
I'm starting to link up with Musical Mondays and share workout songs every week. This week was Starstrukk by 3OH 3! and Katy Perry.

Things I recommend you look at:

Kri from And Kristina Dies in the End bared her soul and talked about her Krohn's Disease and why she's decided to finally start eating healthy in a post called Life as I Know It. I'm so proud of you Kri!
Kri also posted an inspirational post called Just Do It where she talked about her frustration with a Plateau and how ready she was to give up. But she's not going to.
Heather at Wellness Without Pity posted her story about Intentional Health
Amberly from Amberly Adventures posted her Weekly Wrap-Up about getting back into the swing of things, and offered some helpful suggestions that are helping her!

My question for you guys this week:

Have any of you done Weight Watchers?

Do you like it?

Also, how did you do this week?

Let's Get Healthy Giveaway!

2011-06-16T10:10:00.003-06:00

CLOSED!

Winner is:
Firewife!
Congrats!

Everyone look for another giveaway soon! This was fun!

To celebrate starting this blog and making healthy lifestyle changes, I've decided that a giveaway is in order. Don't you think?

One lucky reader will win a medium sized priority box filled with goodies and tools to help you on your healthy journey. Sort of a grab-bag-surprise-but bigger and better. It could have anywhere from books to clothes to Vitamins or healthy treats in it. You wont know until you open it! :) How fun is that? I'm so excited to fill this as full as I can and help you with your goals! It'll be roughly a $30 value (could be more.)

To Qualify

You must be a follower of this blog.

Not a follower? Click on the pretty little follow button to the right ~>

To Enter

Leave me a comment telling me that you are a follower, and listing your biggest reason for being or getting healthy.

Want Additional Entries?

Good, I've got them.
Please leave ONE comment listing ALL of the things you've done.
(except the twitter/facebook entries that can be done once or twice a day)

"Like" Health NOT to Health NUT on Facebook (Leave a comment there instead, that is where I'll count it.) +3
Put my button on your sidebar (code is to the right) +5
Tweet about the giveaway +1 (can be done twice daily)

Let's get healthy! #giveaway over at Health NOT to Health NUT! @MySoCalledChaos @Greatgiveaways http://tinyurl.com/letsgethealthygiv

Post about it on Facebook linking back to this post. +1 (can be done once daily)
Follow me over at My So-Called Chaos too. +5
Blog About it. Leave me a link to the post in your comment. +10

Good luck!

Giveaway ends 06/30/2011 at 11.59PM MST

Open to US & Canada residents.

Winner will be announced 07/01/2011

& will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing info.

What I'm Loving

2011-06-15T10:31:00.000-06:00

Here are some things that I am loving, while on my journey to getting healthy.

Whole Wheat toast, a little Mayo, Tomatoes, Salt & Pepper.

Heaven! This is what says Summer to me.

The Brita Filter Pitcher.

Seriously, the filtered water is so refreshing and cold!

This stuff is SO yummy.
Every time I have a sweet tooth, it cures it.

Almond Butter on an Apple.
Absolutely fantastic in every way!

What are you loving?
Any secret weapons to share?

A Cheat Weekend In Review

2011-06-14T08:49:00.000-06:00

I learned a very valuable lesson this weekend.

Having a cheat day is all well and good (I'd recommend it) but overdoing your cheat day will leave you miserable. As in, my body is not used to the bad food anymore (since I've been eating good food) and so I had a very sick stomach all of Saturday night... Yuck!

Saturday we went to the Farmers Market, so I allowed myself to indulge a little on things I'd been looking forward to all year long. That would be a real french cherry turnover from Pierre Country Bakery and a cookie from RubySnap. I also had an amazing caramelized waffle with fresh strawberries and creme fresche from Bruges Waffles & Frites and it was amazing!

The worst part was that I was with friends and they chose where to have lunch, which ended up being KFC. I'm pretty sure that's what made me the sickest, as my body never liked a lot of grease and this time was triple the usual ickiness I feel. Blech!

Lesson learned, no more overdoing it on a cheat day. I want to allow myself a treat and not suffer from it.

How was your weekend?

Did you give yourself a cheat day?

Workout Song of the Week

2011-06-13T09:38:00.000-06:00

So I've decided to start linking up with Musical Mondays over at my other blog My So-Called Chaos. But over here, I'm going to post songs that I like to work out to. Great idea, right? This should be fun!

This week's song:

StarStrukk
by 3OH 3 featuring Katy Perry

I would have posted the real video, but embedding is disabled. Lame-sauce.

You can go see the real music video HERE.

I love this song, especially when I get to the leg/heel lifts part of the Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred. It's high energy and keeps me moving! Huzzah!

What are you working out to this week?

Go link up!

Farmers Market

2011-06-11T09:10:00.000-06:00

The Downtown SLC Farmers Market opens today!

Seriously, during the summer it's my favorite part of the week. Not only do I get to be in the fresh air, walk around a lot, but I also get to mingle with other free spirits and natural food lovers and buy really good food for myself!

It makes me happy.

Completely and utterly.

Catch you on the flip side, you know where I'll be.

☮ & ♥

Fat Ass Friday

2011-06-10T10:57:00.000-06:00

Well, I'm still a Fat Ass, but I have been seriously making progress on the eating healthy thing. Yum! I've only had one day I would consider bad, and I made up for some of it by trying to hula hoop for about 45 mintues. I suck so bad. But look at my new love:

Isn't she pretty? I just SUCK so bad at it!

One of these days I'll need to weigh in... I have just been avoiding the scale because I'm avoiding getting discouraged. I'll just go with feeling better for now.

In case you missed this weeks really good posts, here are the highlights:

Yesterday I recommended that you Change the Way You Think because your success is going to start in your head!
Tuesday, was Coffee: How Beneficial is it? Where we talked about the potential health benefits. I'm a big coffee lover.
And Monday I suggested a yummy and healthy Cucumber Snack suggestion!

What I also recommend you look at:

The lovely Bree shared this link talking about making your own iced coffee concentrate for cheap. (It's sitting at home so I can try it this weekend) It looks YUMMY!
Beth at Living a Goddess Life offered some Tips for Eating Healthy that I found very useful. You should check them out.

How did you guys do this week?

Change The Way You Think

2011-06-09T08:47:00.000-06:00

It's mind over matter people.

If you think negative things, you're going to feel negative and have a harder time succeeding in your goals.

If you think positive things, you're more likely to feel positive and have positive results.

The next time you crave sweets or chocolate, pick up a piece of fruit and slowly savor it. The whole time you eat it, marvel over the complexity of the flavor, how sweet and refreshing it is.

Soon, you'll be craving all the wonderful sweet things nature offers you instead of fattening candies and cakes. The more you think about the beauty you are partaking of, the more and more you'll come to realize it's what you want and need. That other stuff? Just fills your body with toxins that make you crave it unnaturally.

The next time you're running, jogging, exercising, or anything-think or speak positive things to yourself. Tell yourself "This feels so good." even when it doesn't. Eventually, you'll start to believe it, and after that-it will feel good!

If you constantly complain about how hard it is to yourself, you will always hate it. You have to set your mind to thinking how amazing you feel when you work out. Eventually the brain will start to believe it and you'll always want to be active.

The next time you pour yourself a glass of water, and put it to your lips, consciously think about how good you feel as you take it all in. How smooth your skin feels, how your aching muscles and organs feel quenched by it's purity. Feel it filling you with life.

The more descriptive words you put with the experience, the more likely you are to think and feel that every time you put these things into your body. When putting good things in your body makes you feel good, you will always want to do it. It's a beautiful and amazing thing how much power the mind has over the rest of you. Enjoy it, savor it, love it and be healthy along the way!

So think about it, change the way you think and you will change your body!

So where will you start?

What are you going to start telling yourself to make a change?

Running

2011-06-08T09:46:00.001-06:00

"Running is one of the best solutions to a clear mind"

- Sasha Azavedo

Coffee: How Beneficial Is It?

2011-06-07T12:54:00.000-06:00

Coffee is a much debated topic around these parts. One person listing off all of the reasons they think coffee is bad for you and the other side spouting off all of the reasons it is good for you. It doesn't seem like anyone is middle ground, it's either bad or good, no gray area.

So what is the case here? Is coffee good for you or is it bad for you? According to Web MD there is no hard facts on the matter, but most signs point to potential health benefits, and there is definitely more good than bad.

Studies show that people who drink coffee are less likely to get Type 2 Diabetes, Parkinsons Disease, and Dementia. Researchers believe the fact that coffee is packed with antioxidants (remember the "Benefits of Berries" we talked about?) and minerals that can help lower glucose levels and regulate blood sugar.

Not to forget, theirs caffeine in coffee which gets you up and going and keeps you happy throughout the day. It's a natural mood lifter, social drink, and diuretic-which means that it helps keeps things flowing naturally in your body.

Let's not forget that before you add all the milk and sugar, coffee has almost no calories in it. Isn't that awesome? Plus if you limit it to only a tablespoon of cream, and a tablespoon of sugar-you're still generally under 50 Calories.

Plus, I'm a firm believer that coffee brings people together and there are so many different flavors and options!

Are you a coffee drinker?

What is your reasoning?

Flavored Cucumber Snack

2011-06-06T13:22:00.000-06:00

Cucumbers are a very low calorie option for a snack, especially if you're in the munching mood. Plus, they're high in fiber which means they'll keep your full longer and your body uses more calories during the digestion process.

You can slice them up and eat them like chips, chop them and mix with things, or you can wash them and bite right in. However, what happens when you need a little bit more flavor? Here are two excellent ideas that are still low calorie and add some extra flavor.

Lemony Cucumbers - Thinly slice up your cucumber(s) and place it in a bowl, pour lemon juice (or squeeze some fresh lemons) over them, sprinkle with salt and stir together. This is a great treat for eating right away!

Balsalmic Cucumbers: Thinly slice your cucumber into a bowl and saturate with Balsamic Vinaigrette. This is best if you soak it for a day and then eat it. You can also keep a bowl of them in the fridge to eat out of at any time!

True Story

2011-06-04T08:37:00.000-06:00

You ARE Awesome.

Stop being sad by the little things you fail.

Start loving yourself for the things you do that are awesome.

Plus, NPH is my hero. =)

Fat Ass Friday

2011-06-03T10:08:00.000-06:00

Ok, it's Fat Ass Friday, and no I did not weight myself. Ha!

Anyway, I did restart my 21 days as I said I was going to on Wednesday.

So far, I'm doing pretty well. I've also found a new secret weapon.

I am in love love love with the Honey noosa. It is AMAZING.

It is a little higher on the carbs for Yoghurt, BUT-it's better than a candy bar.

I'm going to use it for when I need to curve sweets cravings.

I recommend you try it. It's amazing.

I think that this less strict plan is much better.

I feel more likely to succeed. :)

How are you doing in your progress?

Red Wine & Your Health

2011-06-02T09:42:00.000-06:00

My roommate told me recently about his coworker who had high cholesterol. Within the span of three months he'd dropped it by 100 points and when the doctor looked at him in shock because he hadn't prescribed him anything, the coworker told him the only change he'd made was to drink a glass of red wine, three times a week.

I also had a coworker a while back who was a big supporter of red wine, and she had mentioned that certain types of Pinot Noir had been proven to lead to longer strands of DNA-which could mean longer life. Wonder if it's true? Look HERE. Apparently Italian scientists have found over two million genetic varients within the Pinot grape. Amazing? Quite possibly.

This made me wonder what other possible health benefits red wine might have. So here's what I found:

Heart Health - Isn't it curious how the wine drinking countries in Europe have high fat diets, but a really low record of heart related illnesses and attacks. The antioxidants in red wine seem to protect the lining of the blood vessels in your heart. Studies have shown that it reduces your risk of heart and cardiovascular disease.
Resveratrol - This is found in Red Wine and helps prevent certain DNA mutations that lead to Cancer. It also thins the blood which helps prevent blood clots and strokes. Studies have also shown that it helps prevent Dementia and Alzheimer's.
Restful Sleep - Research shows that some types of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti, Merlot, etc.) contain Melatonin. So drinking a glass of wine before bed may help you sleep.
Healthy Lungs - The University of Santiago de Compostela in Spain found that each glass of red wine per day reduced the risk of lung cancer by 13%.
Cold Preention - In Spain, researchers found that people who drank red wine were 44% less likely to get colds than people who didn't.

As in all things, Moderation is key. Red wine has all of these amazing benefits, if you drink it in moderation. Too much red wine can lead alcoholism, obesity, high blood pressure, liver damage, etc. Please drink responsibly.

Other Sources:
10 Health Benefits of Red Wine - Eat This
Red Wine and Health - Health Tree
Red Wine and Resveratrol: Good for your heart? - Mayo Clinic
All images from we♥it

Are you a wine person?

What's your favorite?

Can I Call a Re-Do?

2011-06-01T09:16:00.000-06:00

For those of you following, you probably know I started this blog when I started my 21 day challenge. Well that's not going so well at the moment... My first week went well, but then the last few days have been terrible-I feel like I'm falling way out of sync with the plan-which throws off actually forming a habit.

So I'm calling a "do-over"

I'm starting my 21 days all over again, from this point forward I'm going to work on making that lifestyle change happen, but with minimal cheating and no more completely wasted days.

Don't get me wrong, I learned quite a bit from the first attempt-I'm already seeing a change in the water drinking and the food I choose to buy at the grocery store. However, this time I'm choosing not to be so strict with myself-if I'm too strict I just get discouraged. So here are the refined set of goals.

Limit my candy/sweets. Cutting it off entirely was just harsh. So while I should still need to not eat them very often-as a small treat once in a great while is ok.
Drink 8+ Glasses of water a day. Yes, I know I'm supposed to have a lot more than that (take your weight divide it by 2) but 8+ is a great starting point.
Excersize at least 3 days a week for 30 minutes. I'm going to have to work my way up to every day.
Keep making healthier choices when eating. At the market, at the restaurant, etc. Choose healthy food.

So there it is. A little less limited, but much easier to succeed at while still forming a much better habit. Here we go!