Thursday, August 26, 2010

One Day Late

No not that! Heavens no! One day late for my new series!

WEIGHT LOSS WEDNESDAYS

I am starting on this journey and seriously committing myself to losing 100 lbs. in one year, so by this time next year I will be back to my high school self. That's the plan anyways. So to start off this post, I am going to be brave and post some before and after shots. Here we go, no snickers!

Full Frontal ... LOL!



Side to Side!




So here is what has gone on this week. I started 'Herbal Magic' on Monday and Tuesday the work began. I know some people have not so good about opinions about Herbal Magic, but I looked into it myself and feel confident that this is the avenue for me. So Monday, I registered, and yes it was a bit of an investment, but some would say worth the investment. The commitment? One year weight loss program, one year maintenance. Herbal Magic believes in teaching their clients to eat 'real food' (or grocery bought non-processed food), coaching and accountability, and natural supplements. There are two roads to go with HM, one is the bars and shakes, the other is supplements. I decided to go for the bars and shakes for two reasons. The first, I love food. The second, it's cheaper. I have one bar and one shake a day, while also monitoring my diet very closely and using the Canada Food Guide to help with portion control. I also have to increase my water intake, eat no sugar, and no canned food or salt. So I have been eating the best I have ever eaten in years. And oddly enough, not feeling starving as I thought I would. When I start to feel hungry, and I have already consumed my meal or snack, I drink a glass of water and it passes. My coach says that often we eat because we are thirsty and most people are severely dehydrated. And that's the other part of this road to success, is that I have to go in for coaching. To start off with, I have to go everyday for two weeks. And then after, three times a week. Some people would find this a hassle, but I honestly am so grateful for the accountability, the fresh food ideas, and encouragement this brings to the program. The girls who work here are simply wonderful and so understanding. They work with you to plan your meals so it works for you. I have gotten so many ideas on how to beat cravings; such as, make your protein shake into a smoothie with fruit and non-fat yogurt OR even pudding by using half the water. Still just as creamy as the regular stuff, but not cheating. Also, by cutting up my protein bar and putting it in the fridge, I get a chewy chocolate treat whenever the craving hits. These tips have definitely helped as I am a major sweat-a-holic. So every Wednesday they take measurements, too many to keep track, but every week I will share my running tally. And every visit they weigh in and cheer "woo-hoo" if you drop. At first I thought this was kinda of cultish, but now I think it's kinda great that you have a whole office cheering for you.

So to end my first Weight-Loss Wednesday post my starting weigh-in and where I am today.

Starting: 274.5 lbs.
Today: 268.7

Total Loss to Date: 5.8 lbs.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

The Beginning

After a very long drive from Medicine Hat, AB to Summerland, BC we arrived safely and very tired at my parents house. The start of a very busy vacation. We spent the first few days with my family, eating, visiting, playing cards. I love this shot of Elijah, it's like he is saying "Papa, you're number one!"



I love that my parents like playing cards. I am little bit card crazy. I love playing cards. ALL THE TIME. It was great relaxing, laughing, and chatting over a game.



We then went to Keremeos to visit with the whole Family Clan at my Aunt's Winery (which is so amazing). I can close my eyes and see when it's all done, bustling with business as the customers flock to this hidden treasure.

It was delicious food and great company. And surprisingly no one got wet... Uncle Bob never pulled out the big guns. But the cousins played...



Crazy Great Auntie's Cuddled... I love this picture of my Auntie Gerry!



And of course, the guest of honor, my Grandma. It was her birthday and she celebrated with all eight great grandchildren at her feet. So amazing to me that our kids will have that memory with their great Grandma. So awesome!



I have lots more pictures to share, so stay tunned. I have to do this in parts.