Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Gimme a break
Dear friends,
I will be taking a break from this until I get the cancer and everything under control. Meanwhile, feel free to subscribe to my caring bridge site: www.caringbridge.org/visit/rachelmasters to keep up with my diagnosis and treatment.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Terrible news, Good news and EXCITING news!
Sorry for the delay in posting in a while, I've had quite a roller coaster of a month so far.
Mom and dad came in to town 2 weeks ago and I got to spend some time with them. That Friday we (including Jon) went to Plano to what we thought was going to be a consultation for back surgery. After visiting with the scoli surgeon and his assistant, they were convinced that with some core strengthening I could live with the curve and it would help lessen the pain. Jon spoke up at that point and said that it wasn't just some "mild discomfort" and began describing the pain to him, which made the doctors go back to the x-ray. When they came in the room he wasn't so optimistic. "We found a shadow...." then he led us into the room to view the x-ray, where he showed us what he was talking about. He wasn't sure what it was but due to the size of it, wanted to have it checked out immediately. So he called over to Baylor (next door) and sent me in for a CT scan. They did the CT scan and then called us all into the viewing room. The scoli surgeon was there as well (even though by now, it was about 5:15 on Friday evening and I was really no longer his concern). He told us that while we had hoped we wouldn't have anything to worry about over the weekend, we now had a LOT to worry about. He then introduced us to the radiologist who went on to explain the image. As soon as I heard the words, "tumor" and "malignant" my mom latched on to me and I grabbed Jon's hand. Everything else after that just became white noise. The radiologist explained what he thought it was and gave us next steps and said he would burn the images to a disc. While we waited for the disc, I broke down. I started crying and all anyone could do was just hug me. As we were going out to the car, the scoli surgeon stopped us and said he had set up an appointment with an oncologist for Monday morning at 8:30. He would go over the images with us further and discuss next steps from there. The ride back to my sisters was quiet, other than the occasional ding from a text message on my phone.
On Monday, we confirmed with the oncologist that it is cancer. He said that I would be referred to MD Anderson for a biopsy and then could do chemo up here. So as of right now, I'm still waiting on that appointment. As for the scoliosis....it is not the cause of my pain, the tumor is. And it is possible that the way the tumor is growing, it is the cause for the curve in my spine. I don't have any back pain so having back surgery is no longer in the cards for me.
Now for the exciting news. Jon had said that he was going to have a guys night this past Friday. Shortly after that I got a text from my friend Shelley who suggested we have a girls night, which normally wouldn't cause any suspicion, except she mentioned 1) picking me up and 2) getting "gussied up". I didn't mention my suspicions to them, just went along with it. Got my hair cut Friday and got ready for dinner. Shelley and I went to Carrabba's and halfway through our meal, she got a call from one of our friends who works at church wanting Shelley to come up and take care of moving a table for the fundraiser the next night. So we went up to church after dinner and wandered around for a bit until Shelley got a text from our friend saying to go to the chapel to look at a table. So we went to the chapel and as soon as the doors were opened, I saw candles lit the entire length of the aisle and across the stage. On stage were 4 of our friends with guitars and drums and Jon with a mic. They started playing "Calling You" by Blue October (our song) and Jon sang the second verse. There was an interlude where Jon came down off the stage and gave his speech, how much he loves me, how he wants to wake up next to me, how I'm his best friend (and some other stuff)...then he got down on one knee and proposed.
OF COURSE I SAID YES!!!!!
So now we get to do all the fun things like registering for gifts and planning a honeymoon and oh yeah....deciding who has to leave Cook Children's. :( The HR Policy here states that if you work in IT, HR or Finance you can't have any relative working at the hospital. Of course our boss is going to try to fight it, but it's not a guarantee. We're still working on a date, but are very excited.
Mom and dad came in to town 2 weeks ago and I got to spend some time with them. That Friday we (including Jon) went to Plano to what we thought was going to be a consultation for back surgery. After visiting with the scoli surgeon and his assistant, they were convinced that with some core strengthening I could live with the curve and it would help lessen the pain. Jon spoke up at that point and said that it wasn't just some "mild discomfort" and began describing the pain to him, which made the doctors go back to the x-ray. When they came in the room he wasn't so optimistic. "We found a shadow...." then he led us into the room to view the x-ray, where he showed us what he was talking about. He wasn't sure what it was but due to the size of it, wanted to have it checked out immediately. So he called over to Baylor (next door) and sent me in for a CT scan. They did the CT scan and then called us all into the viewing room. The scoli surgeon was there as well (even though by now, it was about 5:15 on Friday evening and I was really no longer his concern). He told us that while we had hoped we wouldn't have anything to worry about over the weekend, we now had a LOT to worry about. He then introduced us to the radiologist who went on to explain the image. As soon as I heard the words, "tumor" and "malignant" my mom latched on to me and I grabbed Jon's hand. Everything else after that just became white noise. The radiologist explained what he thought it was and gave us next steps and said he would burn the images to a disc. While we waited for the disc, I broke down. I started crying and all anyone could do was just hug me. As we were going out to the car, the scoli surgeon stopped us and said he had set up an appointment with an oncologist for Monday morning at 8:30. He would go over the images with us further and discuss next steps from there. The ride back to my sisters was quiet, other than the occasional ding from a text message on my phone.
On Monday, we confirmed with the oncologist that it is cancer. He said that I would be referred to MD Anderson for a biopsy and then could do chemo up here. So as of right now, I'm still waiting on that appointment. As for the scoliosis....it is not the cause of my pain, the tumor is. And it is possible that the way the tumor is growing, it is the cause for the curve in my spine. I don't have any back pain so having back surgery is no longer in the cards for me.
Now for the exciting news. Jon had said that he was going to have a guys night this past Friday. Shortly after that I got a text from my friend Shelley who suggested we have a girls night, which normally wouldn't cause any suspicion, except she mentioned 1) picking me up and 2) getting "gussied up". I didn't mention my suspicions to them, just went along with it. Got my hair cut Friday and got ready for dinner. Shelley and I went to Carrabba's and halfway through our meal, she got a call from one of our friends who works at church wanting Shelley to come up and take care of moving a table for the fundraiser the next night. So we went up to church after dinner and wandered around for a bit until Shelley got a text from our friend saying to go to the chapel to look at a table. So we went to the chapel and as soon as the doors were opened, I saw candles lit the entire length of the aisle and across the stage. On stage were 4 of our friends with guitars and drums and Jon with a mic. They started playing "Calling You" by Blue October (our song) and Jon sang the second verse. There was an interlude where Jon came down off the stage and gave his speech, how much he loves me, how he wants to wake up next to me, how I'm his best friend (and some other stuff)...then he got down on one knee and proposed.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Twist and shout (literally!)
well friends, this blog is temporarily being hijacked for the next year as an outlet of sorts to help me process and deal with my scoliosis.
My first appointment is in 5 days. There's a lot of emotions going on right now - apprehension, anxiety, impatience, a little bit of excitement and a LOT of nervousness.
A little back story about my scoliosis: I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was in 6th grade (you know during one of those awkward moments when everyone's mom comes and you have to bend over in the locker room)- it was an extremely mild curve which I told my parents about and we chose to ignore for the time being. I never experienced any pain until I was a senior in high school. It was very mild and very infrequent. My mom and I found out that my curve had progressed to 23 degrees. The doctor was not concerned at all and said that for most people it would correct itself on its own. By that point, I was too old and my bones had already started to set for a back brace to be of any help. The doctor said to come back in 5 years. Well, 5 years came and went, I didn't have much if any pain and didn't think about it at all until I moved to Texas. 2 years ago out of the blue I noticed I couldn't sleep on my left side anymore. It hurt too much. So I gradually had to adjust to sleeping on my stomach or my back. I also noticed I started leaning a LOT to the left at work and when I was standing or sitting. Initially a heating pad or ibuprofen helped and I could still function pretty normally. But gradually heating pads, ice, and any sort of over the counter pain medicine stopped working. I noticed walking becoming more painful requiring me to put my left hand on my hip to aleviate some of the pain while walking. In January of this year I woke up in the middle of the night with an intense burning sensation on my left side. It hurt so bad I was not able to sleep. I ended up going for a walk at 4:30 in the morning just for something to do to hopefully help clear my head. I finally set up a woman's exam the day before my birthday and started doing some research on scoliosis. The second my doctor walked in the room she asked me if my scoliosis caused me any pain. I didn't have to say a word about it. I explained the kind of pain I was having and she prescribed a muscle relaxer. I took it for a while, but it didn't really do anything to help with the intense burning sensation I experienced a couple times a month. I finally called and requested a referral to a spine specialist. My appointment was in April. I had to fill out at least 20 pages of paperwork detailing my pain, medical history and all that fun stuff. They took me back for x-rays and I peeked around the corner after the first one and my jaw nearly hit the floor when I saw it. My curve had progressed. My upper back looked like a 'c' with the curve of it being on my left side. They took one more and sent me back to my room. I got dressed and continued filling out the paperwork until the doctor came in. He showed me the x-rays and said my curve was over 50 degrees. I had done enough reading at that point to know anything over 50 would require surgery. No ifs, ands, or buts. He told me there was also rotation and that curve had rotated under my left shoulder blade pinching nerves causing the burning sensation. It was also pressing my ribcage outward. He said the curve would only get worse and that surgery was my only option of correcting this and getting rid of the pain. He told me he would refer me to Baylor for the surgery. I asked a few more questions and then left. Talk about an overload. Hearing that kind of news by yourself is enough to make any person freak out. I talked with my parents, told them the results. We spent the rest of the day praying and doing research. My parents called me later that night to pray over me. A week later, I got in touch with Baylor and scheduled the initial consultation. My parents wanted to be there for it, which meant waiting 6 weeks to see someone. I had to have the doctor call in a prescription for pain because it got so severe. I'm still having a lot of pain, even with taking the medicine.
It's 5 days away. I have visited with the folks at Baylor to see how quickly the surgery might be scheduled. Their answer: it depends. However, the doctor I'm seeing has a lot of openings. 5 days until I find out. 5 days until questions are answered. 5 days until I can set a date and begin counting down the days. 5 days....it seems like such a long time, especially with pain.
6 days until the boyfriend talks with the parentals about popping the question :) That too will happen this month along with my parents moving to Wisconsin.
Crazy busy month. Can use all the prayers I can get!!!
My first appointment is in 5 days. There's a lot of emotions going on right now - apprehension, anxiety, impatience, a little bit of excitement and a LOT of nervousness.
A little back story about my scoliosis: I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was in 6th grade (you know during one of those awkward moments when everyone's mom comes and you have to bend over in the locker room)- it was an extremely mild curve which I told my parents about and we chose to ignore for the time being. I never experienced any pain until I was a senior in high school. It was very mild and very infrequent. My mom and I found out that my curve had progressed to 23 degrees. The doctor was not concerned at all and said that for most people it would correct itself on its own. By that point, I was too old and my bones had already started to set for a back brace to be of any help. The doctor said to come back in 5 years. Well, 5 years came and went, I didn't have much if any pain and didn't think about it at all until I moved to Texas. 2 years ago out of the blue I noticed I couldn't sleep on my left side anymore. It hurt too much. So I gradually had to adjust to sleeping on my stomach or my back. I also noticed I started leaning a LOT to the left at work and when I was standing or sitting. Initially a heating pad or ibuprofen helped and I could still function pretty normally. But gradually heating pads, ice, and any sort of over the counter pain medicine stopped working. I noticed walking becoming more painful requiring me to put my left hand on my hip to aleviate some of the pain while walking. In January of this year I woke up in the middle of the night with an intense burning sensation on my left side. It hurt so bad I was not able to sleep. I ended up going for a walk at 4:30 in the morning just for something to do to hopefully help clear my head. I finally set up a woman's exam the day before my birthday and started doing some research on scoliosis. The second my doctor walked in the room she asked me if my scoliosis caused me any pain. I didn't have to say a word about it. I explained the kind of pain I was having and she prescribed a muscle relaxer. I took it for a while, but it didn't really do anything to help with the intense burning sensation I experienced a couple times a month. I finally called and requested a referral to a spine specialist. My appointment was in April. I had to fill out at least 20 pages of paperwork detailing my pain, medical history and all that fun stuff. They took me back for x-rays and I peeked around the corner after the first one and my jaw nearly hit the floor when I saw it. My curve had progressed. My upper back looked like a 'c' with the curve of it being on my left side. They took one more and sent me back to my room. I got dressed and continued filling out the paperwork until the doctor came in. He showed me the x-rays and said my curve was over 50 degrees. I had done enough reading at that point to know anything over 50 would require surgery. No ifs, ands, or buts. He told me there was also rotation and that curve had rotated under my left shoulder blade pinching nerves causing the burning sensation. It was also pressing my ribcage outward. He said the curve would only get worse and that surgery was my only option of correcting this and getting rid of the pain. He told me he would refer me to Baylor for the surgery. I asked a few more questions and then left. Talk about an overload. Hearing that kind of news by yourself is enough to make any person freak out. I talked with my parents, told them the results. We spent the rest of the day praying and doing research. My parents called me later that night to pray over me. A week later, I got in touch with Baylor and scheduled the initial consultation. My parents wanted to be there for it, which meant waiting 6 weeks to see someone. I had to have the doctor call in a prescription for pain because it got so severe. I'm still having a lot of pain, even with taking the medicine.
It's 5 days away. I have visited with the folks at Baylor to see how quickly the surgery might be scheduled. Their answer: it depends. However, the doctor I'm seeing has a lot of openings. 5 days until I find out. 5 days until questions are answered. 5 days until I can set a date and begin counting down the days. 5 days....it seems like such a long time, especially with pain.
6 days until the boyfriend talks with the parentals about popping the question :) That too will happen this month along with my parents moving to Wisconsin.
Crazy busy month. Can use all the prayers I can get!!!
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Challenges
This past week has proved to be very challenging for me both physically and emotionally. I was able to go the entire week without taking any pain medications (partially because I didn't need it and partially because I wanted to have enough to last until my appointment). But because of that, I didn't sleep very well at ALL this week. I did go out to IKEA with my sister and nephew and then to Grapevine Mills Mall, and I think with all the walking I might have overdone it. I was exhausted by the time I got home and feeling extremely dizzy and weak. Tried to take a nap but sleep wouldn't come. I met my friend LeighAnn for dinner and barely ate anything (and for those of you that know me know this is not me at all!) Towards the end of the meal, I began to feel really nauseous and ended up throwing up on the way to my car :( Spent all day Saturday in bed trying to recover. Still don't have my appetite back and still feeling nauseous with a headache. I did look up the side effects of the pain medication I'm taking and all these symptoms I'm having are side effects. :( 12 more days then hopefully the doctor I see will prescribe a new medication.
I've also had a really hard time with being selfish lately. This was something I asked for prayers for at home church on Thursday night - just not feeling myself, feeling irritable and wanting things to be about me. I've had a hard time also with trying to make everyone happy with regards to my appointments and all that - it's not easy considering the schedules of people at work, Jon, my parents and all the while enduring the pain and sleeplessness. I became really overwhelmed this week with the frustration of it all and just broke down. Luckily I have been blessed with an INCREDIBLY caring group of friends and an amazing boyfriend who just listened to me.
Since I was feeling under the weather yesterday, I stayed at home and watched church services via stream. Rick's lesson was amazing as usual and it prompted Jon to go forward for prayers for us and my surgery. The elder he talked to was very understanding and had found out about the fundraiser in a couple weeks and since he was not going to be able to make it, he donated right then and there. $200!!!! When Jon told me, I was blown away. Talk about God providing! I know this will be an incredibly difficult season for me to accept monetary gifts and the help of friends and family when there are things I can't do for myself. I know God is using this to demonstrate His power and to show me that it's okay to depend on people and that He will carry me through all this. It's easy to forget that sometimes and think that I'm on this journey alone - it's hard to explain to people the type and intensity of the pain that I'm having, it's hard to be honest without sounding needy or like I'm complaining or even bitter.
The journey is far from over and I can use all the encouragement I can get!!!
I've also had a really hard time with being selfish lately. This was something I asked for prayers for at home church on Thursday night - just not feeling myself, feeling irritable and wanting things to be about me. I've had a hard time also with trying to make everyone happy with regards to my appointments and all that - it's not easy considering the schedules of people at work, Jon, my parents and all the while enduring the pain and sleeplessness. I became really overwhelmed this week with the frustration of it all and just broke down. Luckily I have been blessed with an INCREDIBLY caring group of friends and an amazing boyfriend who just listened to me.
Since I was feeling under the weather yesterday, I stayed at home and watched church services via stream. Rick's lesson was amazing as usual and it prompted Jon to go forward for prayers for us and my surgery. The elder he talked to was very understanding and had found out about the fundraiser in a couple weeks and since he was not going to be able to make it, he donated right then and there. $200!!!! When Jon told me, I was blown away. Talk about God providing! I know this will be an incredibly difficult season for me to accept monetary gifts and the help of friends and family when there are things I can't do for myself. I know God is using this to demonstrate His power and to show me that it's okay to depend on people and that He will carry me through all this. It's easy to forget that sometimes and think that I'm on this journey alone - it's hard to explain to people the type and intensity of the pain that I'm having, it's hard to be honest without sounding needy or like I'm complaining or even bitter.
The journey is far from over and I can use all the encouragement I can get!!!
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Blessings
I am incredibly lucky blessed! After opening up to home church on Thursday night, I have received SO many blessings since. My best friend Shelley, has offered to help me with some housework and washing my hair tomorrow. She has also been working with my boyfriend Jon to plan a fundraiser to help pay for my surgery! When I was in a LOT of pain last night, Jon prayed over me and read scriptures to me. I also had several friends join Jon and I in the lounge last night for church since I can't sit in the chairs with the rest of the assembly. While this may be a very difficult experience, I could not have asked for a better group of friends to support me and encourage me.
This has kind of thrown a kink in my 28 by 28 goals. I know there's still about 9 months left and that's plenty of time to do things, but that all depends on when the surgery is. It's hard to keep a positive attitude when so much of what I want to do is going to be put on hold with this surgery. But it's like Jon said last night, this is all temporary; what I've got to do is look for ways that God's glory can be shown through all this. That's not easy sometimes. It's a lot easier to throw a pity party and want sympathy from people than to be strong and trust in the Lord.
This has kind of thrown a kink in my 28 by 28 goals. I know there's still about 9 months left and that's plenty of time to do things, but that all depends on when the surgery is. It's hard to keep a positive attitude when so much of what I want to do is going to be put on hold with this surgery. But it's like Jon said last night, this is all temporary; what I've got to do is look for ways that God's glory can be shown through all this. That's not easy sometimes. It's a lot easier to throw a pity party and want sympathy from people than to be strong and trust in the Lord.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Waiting sucks!
Well, I've got the initial consult appt scheduled - June 8. Now the waiting period begins. I got a call today confirming they got my x-rays. I've got a LOT of paperwork to do before then. I've talked with my boss to get things rolling in terms of HR and leave and all that.
But what really sucks is when you have to have other people do things for you because you can't do them anymore because of the pain. It feels like you lose a little bit of yourself; your independence and even a little bit of zest for life. Luckily I have amazing friends (and boyfriend) who are helping me through this and an amazing family who is incredibly supportive. It's going to be a struggle for me to lay down my pride and ask for help when I need it instead of suffering.
But what really sucks is when you have to have other people do things for you because you can't do them anymore because of the pain. It feels like you lose a little bit of yourself; your independence and even a little bit of zest for life. Luckily I have amazing friends (and boyfriend) who are helping me through this and an amazing family who is incredibly supportive. It's going to be a struggle for me to lay down my pride and ask for help when I need it instead of suffering.
Monday, April 23, 2012
You dropped a bomb on me....
Ever have one of those moments where you get some news and you wish you could be anywhere but there? I had said moment on Thursday.
As some of you know, I have scoliosis and the pain has progressed over the past 2 years. I finally went to an orthopedist (read: back specialist) on Thursday. I had been to see a specialist when I was 18 and he didn't see any cause for concern, said to come back in 5 years. Well, 5 years came and went, I didn't have any pain - so no real reason for another visit. The last time I had seen x-rays of my back it was a 23 degree curve. Kinda freaky, but I could live with it with the hope that it would correct itself over time. Fast forward to Thursday. The second I saw the x-ray I started freaking out. So I go back to the exam room, and spend the next 45 minutes waiting for the doctor to show me the x-rays and talk about them. So he comes in all serious puts up the x-rays and says that my curve is now over 50% and that not only is there a curve but there is a rotation as well that part of my spine has rotated under my left scapula, causing the pain in my shoulder blade. *queue panic* So then he mentions the only way to correct this is with surgery - rods and pins *panic increases*, So we talk a little bit more and he says he's going to refer me to a spine surgery specialist. So now, I'm waiting for them to contact me regarding an appointment so I can in turn tell my parents who want to be there for this next consultation - it's when we'll talk about surgery, costs, recovery times, all that fun stuff. And possibly get it scheduled. So prayers through this whole ordeal will be GREATLY appreciated.
On a lighter note, the 5 pound increment weight loss goal/reward list I made for myself is doing its job - I am close to yet another 5 pound mark.
As some of you know, I have scoliosis and the pain has progressed over the past 2 years. I finally went to an orthopedist (read: back specialist) on Thursday. I had been to see a specialist when I was 18 and he didn't see any cause for concern, said to come back in 5 years. Well, 5 years came and went, I didn't have any pain - so no real reason for another visit. The last time I had seen x-rays of my back it was a 23 degree curve. Kinda freaky, but I could live with it with the hope that it would correct itself over time. Fast forward to Thursday. The second I saw the x-ray I started freaking out. So I go back to the exam room, and spend the next 45 minutes waiting for the doctor to show me the x-rays and talk about them. So he comes in all serious puts up the x-rays and says that my curve is now over 50% and that not only is there a curve but there is a rotation as well that part of my spine has rotated under my left scapula, causing the pain in my shoulder blade. *queue panic* So then he mentions the only way to correct this is with surgery - rods and pins *panic increases*, So we talk a little bit more and he says he's going to refer me to a spine surgery specialist. So now, I'm waiting for them to contact me regarding an appointment so I can in turn tell my parents who want to be there for this next consultation - it's when we'll talk about surgery, costs, recovery times, all that fun stuff. And possibly get it scheduled. So prayers through this whole ordeal will be GREATLY appreciated.
On a lighter note, the 5 pound increment weight loss goal/reward list I made for myself is doing its job - I am close to yet another 5 pound mark.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
100 reasons to exercise
100 Reasons to Exercise Now
By Nicole Nichols
www.sparkpeople.com
1. Because it makes you feel confident
2. Because it helps you get stronger
3. Because exercise helps combat depression
4. Because you'll feel proud of yourself
5. Because you have goals you want to reach
6. Because you'll feel bad if you don't
7. Because you want to move forward, not backward
8. Because it burns more calories than not working out
9. Because it improves your heart health
10. Because you want a great butt
11. Because it prevents diabetes
12. Because you want to be a good example to your kids
13. Because you want to feel good in your clothes
14. Because it reduces your risk of cancer
15. Because your body was made to move
16. Because you want to be an athlete
17. Because you want to look better
18. Because it lifts your mood
19. Because you want to stand taller
20. Because it reduces back pain
21. Because it feels good
22. Because it makes you feel accomplished
23. Because you spend most of your day on your butt
24. Because swimsuit season is always coming
25. Because strong is the new skinny
26. Because dieting only works so much
27. Because it strengthens your bones, too
28. Because it helps you lose weight
29. Because it allows you to eat more food
30. Because it's the best way to spend "me" time
31. Because it helps you de-stress
32. Because it's cheaper than therapy
33. Because you want a strong core
34. Because you want to take care for yourself
35. Because you take pride in your body
36. Because it strengthens your legs
37. Because it helps your clothes fit better
38. Because you want to push yourself
39. Because you are capable of more than you ever imagined
40. Because moving your body feels good
41. Because it keeps your mind sharp
42. Because it helps you beat belly bloat
43. Because it helps you sleep better at night
44. Because it gives you energy
45. Because you want to stay healthy as you age
46. Because you want to look younger
47. Because you want toned arms
48. Because it improves your balance
49. Because it burns off last night's dessert
50. Because it boosts your immune system
51. Because sweat is sexy
52. Because you want to live longer
53. Because you want to get better at your game
54. Because you want to catch someone's eye
55. Because exercisers earn more money
56. Because you're more likely to eat better when you exercise
57. Because you want to shave time off your running pace
58. Because you want to breathe easier
59. Because you want to see the scale drop
60. Because exercise improves your sex life
61. Because you are worth it
62. Because being fit makes everything in life better
63. Because you promised yourself that you would
64. Because you deserve a better life
65. Because it'll help you drink more water
66. Because you want to do real push-ups
67. Because it reduces your health care costs
68. Because you'll miss fewer days of work
69. Because you want to create a new future for yourself
70. Because it'll help you like what you see in the mirror
71. Because it'll makes clothing shopping more fun
72. Because you want to look and feel incredible
73. Because exercising can be fun
74. Because it'll help you sweat out toxins
75. Because it's a good way to spend time with your friends
76. Because it'll help you prevent the middle-age spread
77. Because it reduces your blood pressure
78. Because you don't want to let yourself go
79. Because you don't want to squeeze into an airplane or rollercoaster seat
80. Because it strengthens your spirit
81. Because it's a cheap way to entertain yourself
82. Because you'll be able to reward yourself
83. Because you need a reason to wear those new workout clothes
84. Because you're tired of being tired
85. Because not working out is not going to get you very far
86. Because it's a great way to spend time outside
87. Because you made a commitment to yourself
88. Because you're tired of starting over
89. Because there will always be another wedding, vacation or reunion
90. Because you're not a quitter
91. Because it improves your cholesterol
92. Because it boosts your metabolism
93. Because it prevents age-related muscle loss
94. Because if you can do this, you can do anything
95. Because a fit body is a healthy body
96. Because it beats sitting on the couch
97. Because everyone has at least 10 minutes to spare
98. Because you want to be stronger than your excuses
99. Because not working out isn't working out for you
100. Because the only workout you ever regret is the one you skip
By Nicole Nichols
www.sparkpeople.com
1. Because it makes you feel confident
2. Because it helps you get stronger
3. Because exercise helps combat depression
4. Because you'll feel proud of yourself
5. Because you have goals you want to reach
6. Because you'll feel bad if you don't
7. Because you want to move forward, not backward
8. Because it burns more calories than not working out
9. Because it improves your heart health
10. Because you want a great butt
11. Because it prevents diabetes
12. Because you want to be a good example to your kids
13. Because you want to feel good in your clothes
14. Because it reduces your risk of cancer
15. Because your body was made to move
16. Because you want to be an athlete
17. Because you want to look better
18. Because it lifts your mood
19. Because you want to stand taller
20. Because it reduces back pain
21. Because it feels good
22. Because it makes you feel accomplished
23. Because you spend most of your day on your butt
24. Because swimsuit season is always coming
25. Because strong is the new skinny
26. Because dieting only works so much
27. Because it strengthens your bones, too
28. Because it helps you lose weight
29. Because it allows you to eat more food
30. Because it's the best way to spend "me" time
31. Because it helps you de-stress
32. Because it's cheaper than therapy
33. Because you want a strong core
34. Because you want to take care for yourself
35. Because you take pride in your body
36. Because it strengthens your legs
37. Because it helps your clothes fit better
38. Because you want to push yourself
39. Because you are capable of more than you ever imagined
40. Because moving your body feels good
41. Because it keeps your mind sharp
42. Because it helps you beat belly bloat
43. Because it helps you sleep better at night
44. Because it gives you energy
45. Because you want to stay healthy as you age
46. Because you want to look younger
47. Because you want toned arms
48. Because it improves your balance
49. Because it burns off last night's dessert
50. Because it boosts your immune system
51. Because sweat is sexy
52. Because you want to live longer
53. Because you want to get better at your game
54. Because you want to catch someone's eye
55. Because exercisers earn more money
56. Because you're more likely to eat better when you exercise
57. Because you want to shave time off your running pace
58. Because you want to breathe easier
59. Because you want to see the scale drop
60. Because exercise improves your sex life
61. Because you are worth it
62. Because being fit makes everything in life better
63. Because you promised yourself that you would
64. Because you deserve a better life
65. Because it'll help you drink more water
66. Because you want to do real push-ups
67. Because it reduces your health care costs
68. Because you'll miss fewer days of work
69. Because you want to create a new future for yourself
70. Because it'll help you like what you see in the mirror
71. Because it'll makes clothing shopping more fun
72. Because you want to look and feel incredible
73. Because exercising can be fun
74. Because it'll help you sweat out toxins
75. Because it's a good way to spend time with your friends
76. Because it'll help you prevent the middle-age spread
77. Because it reduces your blood pressure
78. Because you don't want to let yourself go
79. Because you don't want to squeeze into an airplane or rollercoaster seat
80. Because it strengthens your spirit
81. Because it's a cheap way to entertain yourself
82. Because you'll be able to reward yourself
83. Because you need a reason to wear those new workout clothes
84. Because you're tired of being tired
85. Because not working out is not going to get you very far
86. Because it's a great way to spend time outside
87. Because you made a commitment to yourself
88. Because you're tired of starting over
89. Because there will always be another wedding, vacation or reunion
90. Because you're not a quitter
91. Because it improves your cholesterol
92. Because it boosts your metabolism
93. Because it prevents age-related muscle loss
94. Because if you can do this, you can do anything
95. Because a fit body is a healthy body
96. Because it beats sitting on the couch
97. Because everyone has at least 10 minutes to spare
98. Because you want to be stronger than your excuses
99. Because not working out isn't working out for you
100. Because the only workout you ever regret is the one you skip
Goals
Well friends, Lent ends today and what a month and a half this has been! First off, let me update on things that happened since my last post.
Vacation was WONDERFUL! It was great seeing my family and getting to spend some time with friends there. We all had a great time and have some hilarious albeit strange quotes. We did eat moderately healthy thanks to my mom's OUTSTANDING cooking. And we went to Kool Beans Cafe for Sunday brunch which was AMAZING! (If you live in Tallahassee and haven't been there yet, I HIGHLY recommend it!) And honestly, this is about the 5th or 6th week that I've done okay with just one soda a week and I can't say I miss it. Finding other beverage options that offer more health benefits (tea - mainly to get over my cold) or when I'm craving something with flavor: lemonade. Still working on the eating habits and exercise.
On the way back, a friend and I agreed to do a "beta test" (this is a major nerd thing and we talked about the phases of software development (pushes glasses up on her face), but mostly a reference to 'The Big Bang Theory' where Penny and Leonard agree to do a beta test of their relationship) and we have been dating ever since. No one was surprised - all our friends just said, "it's about time!!"
In the past several days however, we had a trip to the ER. He has pneumonia and a SLEW of other health problems which scared us both pretty bad into making some changes for the better. I bought a couple books on nutrition (see previous post on how addicted I am to books) and we did a 5k (my 4th one thank you very much!) on Saturday (his idea to join us and walk it with pneumonia....) we're talking about making some other changes as well. One thing that his being sick has brought out is how much I NEED to take care of myself before I can take care of others (the Pathways mantra!). I've had to say no quite a bit in the past couple of days so I can stay healthy and I'm realizing how many of my goals relate to taking care of me in more ways than just appearance.
I must admit, I've fallen off the bandwagon in terms of keeping up my water and limiting my soda. But every day is a new day right?
I DID however get to check off one of my 28 by 28 - the doctor visits. I have seen my (now) primary for a check up, been to the dentist (sadly I have 2 small cavities..but they are the first cavities in 27 years...that's pretty good!), and have an appointment with the orthopedist to get my scoliosis checked out.
I also made a list of goals (I know, me and lists right?) in 5 pound increments of rewards I'll give myself for losing that 5 pounds. They're all "things" - I want to get better about rewarding myself with things other than food. I'm almost at my second goal (like 2 pounds away!) !! Some of the things include cut and color, teeth whitening, new glasses, a dress from modcloth when I lose more weight, clothes, shoes, you get the idea. I know I've got a long way to go, but by helping me focus on the short term goals I think I can be much more successful (and props to my friend Marie for suggesting this!!). Now I'm just thinking about putting up a daily reminder on my mirror or somewhere in my room....post it or dry erase marker - suggestions?
One thing I love about where I work is the incentive to maintain a healthy lifestyle and once every few months they do a "healthy me" challenge - the first one I did was about eating habits - eating breakfast every day, not skipping meals, eating more vegetables and I won $50! The one I'm doing this month is about being active - the goal is to get at least 64 points (1 point = 10 minutes of activity - walking, dancing, yard work, household chores) so the weekly goal would be 15 points a week and then on the last 2 days of the month do 2 each day for the total of 64. I did make my goal of 15 points this week (thanks to the 5k) and am looking for things to do this week to help keep me active and meet my goal. The gal that sends out the reminders to log points sent a list of motivations this week - some were ones I hadn't even thought about (see NEXT post for the list). But are good to keep in mind.
What things do you use to help keep you on track?
Vacation was WONDERFUL! It was great seeing my family and getting to spend some time with friends there. We all had a great time and have some hilarious albeit strange quotes. We did eat moderately healthy thanks to my mom's OUTSTANDING cooking. And we went to Kool Beans Cafe for Sunday brunch which was AMAZING! (If you live in Tallahassee and haven't been there yet, I HIGHLY recommend it!) And honestly, this is about the 5th or 6th week that I've done okay with just one soda a week and I can't say I miss it. Finding other beverage options that offer more health benefits (tea - mainly to get over my cold) or when I'm craving something with flavor: lemonade. Still working on the eating habits and exercise.
On the way back, a friend and I agreed to do a "beta test" (this is a major nerd thing and we talked about the phases of software development (pushes glasses up on her face), but mostly a reference to 'The Big Bang Theory' where Penny and Leonard agree to do a beta test of their relationship) and we have been dating ever since. No one was surprised - all our friends just said, "it's about time!!"
In the past several days however, we had a trip to the ER. He has pneumonia and a SLEW of other health problems which scared us both pretty bad into making some changes for the better. I bought a couple books on nutrition (see previous post on how addicted I am to books) and we did a 5k (my 4th one thank you very much!) on Saturday (his idea to join us and walk it with pneumonia....) we're talking about making some other changes as well. One thing that his being sick has brought out is how much I NEED to take care of myself before I can take care of others (the Pathways mantra!). I've had to say no quite a bit in the past couple of days so I can stay healthy and I'm realizing how many of my goals relate to taking care of me in more ways than just appearance.
I must admit, I've fallen off the bandwagon in terms of keeping up my water and limiting my soda. But every day is a new day right?
I DID however get to check off one of my 28 by 28 - the doctor visits. I have seen my (now) primary for a check up, been to the dentist (sadly I have 2 small cavities..but they are the first cavities in 27 years...that's pretty good!), and have an appointment with the orthopedist to get my scoliosis checked out.
I also made a list of goals (I know, me and lists right?) in 5 pound increments of rewards I'll give myself for losing that 5 pounds. They're all "things" - I want to get better about rewarding myself with things other than food. I'm almost at my second goal (like 2 pounds away!) !! Some of the things include cut and color, teeth whitening, new glasses, a dress from modcloth when I lose more weight, clothes, shoes, you get the idea. I know I've got a long way to go, but by helping me focus on the short term goals I think I can be much more successful (and props to my friend Marie for suggesting this!!). Now I'm just thinking about putting up a daily reminder on my mirror or somewhere in my room....post it or dry erase marker - suggestions?
One thing I love about where I work is the incentive to maintain a healthy lifestyle and once every few months they do a "healthy me" challenge - the first one I did was about eating habits - eating breakfast every day, not skipping meals, eating more vegetables and I won $50! The one I'm doing this month is about being active - the goal is to get at least 64 points (1 point = 10 minutes of activity - walking, dancing, yard work, household chores) so the weekly goal would be 15 points a week and then on the last 2 days of the month do 2 each day for the total of 64. I did make my goal of 15 points this week (thanks to the 5k) and am looking for things to do this week to help keep me active and meet my goal. The gal that sends out the reminders to log points sent a list of motivations this week - some were ones I hadn't even thought about (see NEXT post for the list). But are good to keep in mind.
What things do you use to help keep you on track?
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Never gonna give you up
"There is a limit to enjoyment, throught he sources of wealth be boundless; And the choicest pleasures of life lie within the ring of moderation." - Martin Farquhar Tupper, Proverbial Philosophy (Taken from January 2012 Issue of Real Simple)
Yes, I'm just now getting around to reading this issue. And yes, page 7 is as far as I've gotten before I saw that quote and decided to grace the intrawebs with my online presence.
I thought that quote fitting since the season of Lent is among us. You may have heard many people talk about giving things up for lent: soda, candy, fast food, alcohol....I said that I would give up soda....then realized that it was on my list to cut back....even after going 3 days without it prior to my statement.
Sometimes it takes weeks, months or even years before something someone has said to me strikes me or actually registers. This time it was a conversation with my doctor when she was inquiring about my soda drinking habits in an attempt to find foods/beverages I could cut out to help me lose weight. Here where I work, they only serve soda in the 20 oz bottles. I told my doctor as much. She said that one of those 20 oz bottles of soda a day equates to 25 POUNDS of sugar a year (which I did the math....equates to about 12.5 pounds in a year.....forget about blaming breakups on weight gain in college...it was my 3 sometimes 4 a day mountain dew habit that did me in!!) Not exactly sure when it was last week when this kicked in, but at some point I realized "I'd rather EAT my calories than drink them" and I can proudly say that I met my "1 soda a week" goal last week - Friday was the only day I had soda. Sadly this revealation also made me take a look at my Starbucks habit - trips to the starbucks IN the hospital or on my way to work add up to more calories than a soda. So I also proudly admit that I only had Starbucks ONCE last week. I also met my goal of eating out less than 3x (twice to be exact). ALSO (I know, ANOTHER thing to admit?!) I kept a clear water bottle on my desk and drank one every day (that I was at work at least....I did however drink an entire nalgene bottle of water on Thursday) AND I walked 2 days last week for at least 30 minutes.
Whoever said some of the best things are in moderation was right. Too much candy and you get sick, too much and you don't appreciate the thing you craved so much. Maybe this is why I don't drink Mountain Dew anymore. I got tired of it.
Are you giving anything up for Lent? Is there something you overiindulged in that you no longer enjoy?
Yes, I'm just now getting around to reading this issue. And yes, page 7 is as far as I've gotten before I saw that quote and decided to grace the intrawebs with my online presence.
I thought that quote fitting since the season of Lent is among us. You may have heard many people talk about giving things up for lent: soda, candy, fast food, alcohol....I said that I would give up soda....then realized that it was on my list to cut back....even after going 3 days without it prior to my statement.
Sometimes it takes weeks, months or even years before something someone has said to me strikes me or actually registers. This time it was a conversation with my doctor when she was inquiring about my soda drinking habits in an attempt to find foods/beverages I could cut out to help me lose weight. Here where I work, they only serve soda in the 20 oz bottles. I told my doctor as much. She said that one of those 20 oz bottles of soda a day equates to 25 POUNDS of sugar a year (which I did the math....equates to about 12.5 pounds in a year.....forget about blaming breakups on weight gain in college...it was my 3 sometimes 4 a day mountain dew habit that did me in!!) Not exactly sure when it was last week when this kicked in, but at some point I realized "I'd rather EAT my calories than drink them" and I can proudly say that I met my "1 soda a week" goal last week - Friday was the only day I had soda. Sadly this revealation also made me take a look at my Starbucks habit - trips to the starbucks IN the hospital or on my way to work add up to more calories than a soda. So I also proudly admit that I only had Starbucks ONCE last week. I also met my goal of eating out less than 3x (twice to be exact). ALSO (I know, ANOTHER thing to admit?!) I kept a clear water bottle on my desk and drank one every day (that I was at work at least....I did however drink an entire nalgene bottle of water on Thursday) AND I walked 2 days last week for at least 30 minutes.
Whoever said some of the best things are in moderation was right. Too much candy and you get sick, too much and you don't appreciate the thing you craved so much. Maybe this is why I don't drink Mountain Dew anymore. I got tired of it.
Are you giving anything up for Lent? Is there something you overiindulged in that you no longer enjoy?
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Catching up
Whew!! What a week! I've felt like I've gone non-stop for a solid week!! I worked Sunday-Wednesday, then Thursday morning got up and did the bible study and hung out with my sister, Friday was my doctors appt, yesterday (my birthday) I met my sister at La Madeliene for breakfast then went to this AMAZING spa for pedicures. Then I went home, practiced, had lunch, drove to NRH where we had rehearsal for Onward and Upward from 2-5:30 then I came home, changed and we partied until 11:30 last night when I crashed.
So now it's time to get caught up on the other goals for the week and the photo of the day for the 2nd through the 5th.
First, an update on the goals. I had my doctor visit on Friday, so far so good, found out that what I thought was a panic attack a couple weeks ago was my scoliosis, she gave me some pain medication for when it gets really bad - its basically a pinched nerve.
Did better with the eating out and less soda. Speaking of which...my doctor said that 1 20oz bottle of soda a day equates to 25 pounds of sugar a year!!!! And that's not including any other sugar!! I can tell you who is going to be better about dropping that bad habit!!
In terms of the reading, I finished 'the Little Prince' which I would HIGHLY recommend.(it's a super quick read) I grew up watching the movie and was always drawn to it, having read the book as an adult I know why. It talks about keeping your childhood enthusiasm for life. My roommate got me the last 2 Hunger Games books for my birthday (best roommate ever right?!!) so I will start on those at some point.
day 4: stranger (it counts right?)
So now it's time to get caught up on the other goals for the week and the photo of the day for the 2nd through the 5th.
First, an update on the goals. I had my doctor visit on Friday, so far so good, found out that what I thought was a panic attack a couple weeks ago was my scoliosis, she gave me some pain medication for when it gets really bad - its basically a pinched nerve.
Did better with the eating out and less soda. Speaking of which...my doctor said that 1 20oz bottle of soda a day equates to 25 pounds of sugar a year!!!! And that's not including any other sugar!! I can tell you who is going to be better about dropping that bad habit!!
In terms of the reading, I finished 'the Little Prince' which I would HIGHLY recommend.(it's a super quick read) I grew up watching the movie and was always drawn to it, having read the book as an adult I know why. It talks about keeping your childhood enthusiasm for life. My roommate got me the last 2 Hunger Games books for my birthday (best roommate ever right?!!) so I will start on those at some point.
day 2: words
day 3: hands (mine)
day 5: 10am (creative, I know)
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Photo a day challenge
So one of my goals was to take more pictures - so I'm going to participate in the Febuary photo a day challenge.
1. Your view today: my view for the next 8 hours (my desk at work)
and yes, we do keep it dimly lit. Keeps the computers cooler. (plus I like to think it makes it more relaxed)
1. Your view today: my view for the next 8 hours (my desk at work)
and yes, we do keep it dimly lit. Keeps the computers cooler. (plus I like to think it makes it more relaxed)
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Recommended reading
While doing my daily reading on the blogs I follow, I came across this post on this blog I recently started following. It has a lot of merit, especially for me where I'm at in my weight loss journey.
Check it out here!!
Check it out here!!
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Gosh, not much has happened this week that is blog worthy. (but I said I'd post once a week in an effort to revive this) I did do quite a bit of walking, kept up with my soda goal (trying to switch over to sweet tea instead then gradually make the switch to water full time) and did MUCH better with the fast food thing.
I haven't had my coffee yet so that probably explains why my brain is still kinda foggy.
I haven't had my coffee yet so that probably explains why my brain is still kinda foggy.
Monday, January 23, 2012
There's always a silver lining....
Well....the good news is I went for a 30 minute walk this morning. (more like a power walk) The bad news....it was at 4:30 this morning during the middle of a really bad panic attack (that is just now subsiding). Oh well.....
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Don't Stop Believin'
I am happy to report that I did MUCH better on my goals this week. I did cut back significantly on fast food and only had sodas 3 days this past week.
I got a really encouraging email from my sister with regards to my last post - she made the comment about there always being excuses (and coincidentally the theme for the Biggest Loser this season is 'No Excuses'). And I will readily admit I can come up with 50 things I'd rather be doing (and in some cases not doing) than going for a walk. I did check out the rates for the 24 hour fitness just around the corner from my house. And I still maintain that until I get regular with walking, no fitness center membership or classes will just automatically motivate me to go work out.
She suggested that I focus on other things before getting into exercising full-force such as getting a doctor.
In terms of the rest of my 28 by 28, I finished my 2 books for this month. I read Courageous and book 1 of the Hunger Games (I was up until 4am reading the Hunger Games!). One of my friends lent me Mockingjay but I need to read Catching Fire first. On my reading list this year:
Think and Grow Rich
7 Habits of Highly Effective People
The Hunger Games books 2 and 3
The Help
The Vow
Pride and Prejudice
Mansfield Park
Northanger Abby
Sense and Sensibility
Emma
Persuasion
The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks
The Great Gatsby
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery (have loved this story since I was a kid, never read the book though)
The Catcher In the Rye
The Grapes of Wrath
Walden
Lord of the Flies
Atlas Shrugged
The Fountainhead
Atonement
Saturday
East of Eden
I could probably up my goal to 3 books a month (the whole purpose was to read more, watch TV less which I am doing, so mission accomplished so far right?).
The closets are still a work in progress, but are getting much closer to being done - my bedroom closet is almost completely done! (there's still my bathroom closet and the guest room closet...but I'm thinking since the guest room closet is shared, there's not much I can do)
The one thing I am finding is that there are so many smaller projects that encompass the large project - for instance - as part of cleaning out the closets that comes getting a sewing basket and organizing that, going through magazines and pulling out pages of recipes/things I like and want to try.
I suppose that's all for today, I can't really think of anything else inspiring me lately.
I got a really encouraging email from my sister with regards to my last post - she made the comment about there always being excuses (and coincidentally the theme for the Biggest Loser this season is 'No Excuses'). And I will readily admit I can come up with 50 things I'd rather be doing (and in some cases not doing) than going for a walk. I did check out the rates for the 24 hour fitness just around the corner from my house. And I still maintain that until I get regular with walking, no fitness center membership or classes will just automatically motivate me to go work out.
She suggested that I focus on other things before getting into exercising full-force such as getting a doctor.
In terms of the rest of my 28 by 28, I finished my 2 books for this month. I read Courageous and book 1 of the Hunger Games (I was up until 4am reading the Hunger Games!). One of my friends lent me Mockingjay but I need to read Catching Fire first. On my reading list this year:
Think and Grow Rich
7 Habits of Highly Effective People
The Hunger Games books 2 and 3
The Help
The Vow
Pride and Prejudice
Mansfield Park
Northanger Abby
Sense and Sensibility
Emma
Persuasion
The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks
The Great Gatsby
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery (have loved this story since I was a kid, never read the book though)
The Catcher In the Rye
The Grapes of Wrath
Walden
Lord of the Flies
Atlas Shrugged
The Fountainhead
Atonement
Saturday
East of Eden
I could probably up my goal to 3 books a month (the whole purpose was to read more, watch TV less which I am doing, so mission accomplished so far right?).
The closets are still a work in progress, but are getting much closer to being done - my bedroom closet is almost completely done! (there's still my bathroom closet and the guest room closet...but I'm thinking since the guest room closet is shared, there's not much I can do)
The one thing I am finding is that there are so many smaller projects that encompass the large project - for instance - as part of cleaning out the closets that comes getting a sewing basket and organizing that, going through magazines and pulling out pages of recipes/things I like and want to try.
I suppose that's all for today, I can't really think of anything else inspiring me lately.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Accountability
If I had to describe how I feel about accountability in 2 words: it sucks. I've had several conversations with my sister and one of my other friends about my weight, exercise, eating healthy and whatnot - they've given me several suggestions on things to do and try. (and yes, they do follow through and ask how I'm coming, which I appreciate greatly, but I hate disappointing...all the more reason to just do it right?) One thing I decided to do was link my blog with my google+ account so that more people would see it. (since I only have 5 subscribers and I can only really guarantee that one person reads it) Also, my posting every week will definitely help keep me more accountable.
I went grocery shopping yesterday and bought lots of healthy stuff - logged todays meals in weight watchers - and I have 8 points left over!!! And yes, it does feel good to eat healthy - I can feel a difference in how my body reacts to things. (plus it feels good to meet my goals and get the little smiley face next to it)
I'm still working on the activity. I DID purchase a swimsuit, have not yet gone to the Y to set up a membership. Something in my mind says, "if you can't even make time (or effort) to go for a walk (and that's free!!) what makes you think that you'll go to something that you're paying for? We've been down that road before, remember?" And that's what stopped me short. Ok, I just did a little more investigating...the Y that is close to where I live only offers water aerobics during the summer and the one where I work has classes that are either after I'm at work or before I get off. :( Yes, there are other classes that are offered, but what works with my schedule is somewhat limited. (again, :( ) I think at the point where I'm at, I need to start walking on a regular basis before jumping in to a gym membership anywhere.
On another note, one thing I found this week - when I look at my 28 by 28 list daily I keep my focus, when I don't, I forget about the goals I set for myself. That's one thing I'm going to get better about -looking at this list and asking myself, "what can I do today to work towards my end goal of ___________?"
What are you struggling with being accountable for?
I went grocery shopping yesterday and bought lots of healthy stuff - logged todays meals in weight watchers - and I have 8 points left over!!! And yes, it does feel good to eat healthy - I can feel a difference in how my body reacts to things. (plus it feels good to meet my goals and get the little smiley face next to it)
I'm still working on the activity. I DID purchase a swimsuit, have not yet gone to the Y to set up a membership. Something in my mind says, "if you can't even make time (or effort) to go for a walk (and that's free!!) what makes you think that you'll go to something that you're paying for? We've been down that road before, remember?" And that's what stopped me short. Ok, I just did a little more investigating...the Y that is close to where I live only offers water aerobics during the summer and the one where I work has classes that are either after I'm at work or before I get off. :( Yes, there are other classes that are offered, but what works with my schedule is somewhat limited. (again, :( ) I think at the point where I'm at, I need to start walking on a regular basis before jumping in to a gym membership anywhere.
On another note, one thing I found this week - when I look at my 28 by 28 list daily I keep my focus, when I don't, I forget about the goals I set for myself. That's one thing I'm going to get better about -looking at this list and asking myself, "what can I do today to work towards my end goal of ___________?"
What are you struggling with being accountable for?
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Tomorrow is always a new day
well, the first week of the new year didn't start off so well in terms of my goals. I worked the night shift all week so my schedule was COMPLETELY thrown off which meant I slept most of the day and when I was up, it was late at night. The only things I did do were (begin to) revive this blog, do Simple Abundance, I did drink more water, I at least started 'Thin Again', and that's about it. Oh and getting up when my alarm went off...but that was usually my internal alarm clock.(does it count that my car has stayed clean for over a month now?? Well, the interior at least...)
When it got to be Friday night and I realized how much I HADN'T done (or started on) I had to take a step back and say, "hey, I'm only human, and it's been a rough week. I will make time for these things next week." And yes, I did get up when my alarm clock went off this morning (despite being woken up at midnight since I'm on call).
One of the things I love about where I work is all the benefits. Our healthcare provider has a nifty set of tools to help you work on nutrition, sleep, anxiety, weight, and a couple others - I took a couple assessments and I didn't realize how ignorant I was on some of the food choices and how much I ignore the nutrients that my body needs. And granted, it's not always easy to cook healthy for one and eat leftovers all week. (it's made me seriously consider going back to mealbalance) It also opened my eyes to see how unhealthy all of my friends eat. When I took a serious inventory of how many in my group of friends is actually at a healthy weight....its maybe 2 (and granted they're both guys, but they both also have beer bellies) and NONE of us are active. We're taking a road trip to Florida in March and I wanted them all to give some me meal suggestions and I was really quite shocked at how unhealthy many of their preferences were. So friends: beware - not only will we be active when we go to Florida, but we will eat healthy too!! (especially if my parents have anything to say about that!! :))
This coming week I've got lots going on - my sister and I are starting a bible study together: 'So Long Insecurity' by Beth Moore. I'm really excited to do this study with her - we've really grown closer over the past year and I'm thankful my new job has given me these extra days off (who doesn't want a 3 day weekend EVERY week??!) to spend with her and Max. She has also graciuosly volunteered to help me with my closet (#26!!) and tackle my wardrobe. When it comes to fashion and style I don't have it. I follow a blog called Kendi Everyday and she mixes and matches stuff that I could never do. So I'm thankful to have someone more style-savvy than myself to help me tackle this project.
Despite my crazy schedule I did manage to get a couple things taken care of on my personal to-do list and in the process of feeling slightly more accomplished, I realized there was yet ANOTHER item I should have added on my '28 by 28' list: make a habit of logging my points on weight watchers. (which I did do today) But I guess this is part of what life is all about right? Making the most out of your every day life.
When it got to be Friday night and I realized how much I HADN'T done (or started on) I had to take a step back and say, "hey, I'm only human, and it's been a rough week. I will make time for these things next week." And yes, I did get up when my alarm clock went off this morning (despite being woken up at midnight since I'm on call).
One of the things I love about where I work is all the benefits. Our healthcare provider has a nifty set of tools to help you work on nutrition, sleep, anxiety, weight, and a couple others - I took a couple assessments and I didn't realize how ignorant I was on some of the food choices and how much I ignore the nutrients that my body needs. And granted, it's not always easy to cook healthy for one and eat leftovers all week. (it's made me seriously consider going back to mealbalance) It also opened my eyes to see how unhealthy all of my friends eat. When I took a serious inventory of how many in my group of friends is actually at a healthy weight....its maybe 2 (and granted they're both guys, but they both also have beer bellies) and NONE of us are active. We're taking a road trip to Florida in March and I wanted them all to give some me meal suggestions and I was really quite shocked at how unhealthy many of their preferences were. So friends: beware - not only will we be active when we go to Florida, but we will eat healthy too!! (especially if my parents have anything to say about that!! :))
This coming week I've got lots going on - my sister and I are starting a bible study together: 'So Long Insecurity' by Beth Moore. I'm really excited to do this study with her - we've really grown closer over the past year and I'm thankful my new job has given me these extra days off (who doesn't want a 3 day weekend EVERY week??!) to spend with her and Max. She has also graciuosly volunteered to help me with my closet (#26!!) and tackle my wardrobe. When it comes to fashion and style I don't have it. I follow a blog called Kendi Everyday and she mixes and matches stuff that I could never do. So I'm thankful to have someone more style-savvy than myself to help me tackle this project.
Despite my crazy schedule I did manage to get a couple things taken care of on my personal to-do list and in the process of feeling slightly more accomplished, I realized there was yet ANOTHER item I should have added on my '28 by 28' list: make a habit of logging my points on weight watchers. (which I did do today) But I guess this is part of what life is all about right? Making the most out of your every day life.
Monday, January 2, 2012
28 by 28
okay, yes I know I'm not 27 yet. (only a month to go.. but doing 27 things in approx 32 days didn't seem quite feasable especially when most of them will take a good chunk of this year to do) I've seen several other bloggers do this with regard to the year (ie 2012 - 13 things to do before 2013...) or with regard to your age which is what I'm doing. Let me share with you my list:
1. Eat out no more than 3x a week
2. get to 200lbs by 8/1/12
3. Have a fully funded emergency fund by 3/1/12
4. Practice piano/guitar 3x a week for 30 minutes
5. Complete A+ certification
6. Clean out closets
7. Revive blog
8. Get debt free (and subsequently scream that on the Dave Ramsey Show)
9. Drink 8 glasses of water a day
10. Work out 3x a week for 30 minutes
11. Read and do Simple Abundance every day
12. Give more
13. Read bible/pray more
14. Take more photos
15. Keep car clean and organized
16. Keep track of expenses and an accurate budget
17. Read 2 new books each month
18. Do hair and make up every day
19. Send birthday/holiday/thank you cards
20. Try a new recipe each week
21. Re-read/refresh Finanical Peace
22. Read and finish 'Thin Again' (if I can do this this year, it will be a BIG deal...my mom gave it to me when I was a junior in college (back in 2005) and I have yet to get more than 5 chapters in).
23. Get a doctor, dentist and get check-ups for everything
24. Finish shabby-ing chest of drawers and get washers for knobs
25. Get better about grooming habits
26. Start new car fund
27. limit myself to 1 soda a week
28. Get up when my alarm goes off. (the first one...not the 6th one)
And since I will have had these extra 32 days to work on these I should have a good head start right? Well, let me just say it's only the 2nd day of the year and I've already changed about 6 of these - clean out the garage was one but my roommate took care of that yesterday and it looks quite lovely! I've done better about drinking more water and so far have done good about doing Simple Abundance and journaling.
You might notice that several of these (7 to be exact) are goals under the "lose weight" umbrella. I want to set myself up for habits that I can continue throughout the rest of the year (and my life) to help maintain and encourage weight loss. And with Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays off I can use those days to plan meals and cook ahead of time so when I get home I just pop something in the oven or microwave for dinner and I'm good to go.
One thing my sister and I talked about was doing water aerobics or joining the YMCA - well...one perk about working at Cook Children's is all the discounts we get - and yes, there is one at the YMCA...just might be going three this week to enroll!!
1. Eat out no more than 3x a week
2. get to 200lbs by 8/1/12
3. Have a fully funded emergency fund by 3/1/12
4. Practice piano/guitar 3x a week for 30 minutes
5. Complete A+ certification
6. Clean out closets
7. Revive blog
8. Get debt free (and subsequently scream that on the Dave Ramsey Show)
9. Drink 8 glasses of water a day
10. Work out 3x a week for 30 minutes
11. Read and do Simple Abundance every day
12. Give more
13. Read bible/pray more
14. Take more photos
15. Keep car clean and organized
16. Keep track of expenses and an accurate budget
17. Read 2 new books each month
18. Do hair and make up every day
19. Send birthday/holiday/thank you cards
20. Try a new recipe each week
21. Re-read/refresh Finanical Peace
22. Read and finish 'Thin Again' (if I can do this this year, it will be a BIG deal...my mom gave it to me when I was a junior in college (back in 2005) and I have yet to get more than 5 chapters in).
23. Get a doctor, dentist and get check-ups for everything
24. Finish shabby-ing chest of drawers and get washers for knobs
25. Get better about grooming habits
26. Start new car fund
27. limit myself to 1 soda a week
28. Get up when my alarm goes off. (the first one...not the 6th one)
And since I will have had these extra 32 days to work on these I should have a good head start right? Well, let me just say it's only the 2nd day of the year and I've already changed about 6 of these - clean out the garage was one but my roommate took care of that yesterday and it looks quite lovely! I've done better about drinking more water and so far have done good about doing Simple Abundance and journaling.
You might notice that several of these (7 to be exact) are goals under the "lose weight" umbrella. I want to set myself up for habits that I can continue throughout the rest of the year (and my life) to help maintain and encourage weight loss. And with Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays off I can use those days to plan meals and cook ahead of time so when I get home I just pop something in the oven or microwave for dinner and I'm good to go.
One thing my sister and I talked about was doing water aerobics or joining the YMCA - well...one perk about working at Cook Children's is all the discounts we get - and yes, there is one at the YMCA...just might be going three this week to enroll!!
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