My 5K Blog

Just a quick post to inform you all that I have started another blog (in addition to this one). It will be used predominantly as a training log for my upcoming 5K! I will log all my workouts and any and everything relating to training for this race!!

I just bought new running shoes...check it out:

http://www.My5K.blogspot.com

Thanks!!

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

The Ottawa Citizen Follow-up Article!!!

They're checking up on me y'all!! lol!! Glad I kept my butt in check the past few months!!

I received an email yesterday from Alison Korn, the Ottawa Citizen writer who wrote the feature on my story about 5 months ago. Check it out here: http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Health/Joania+journey/1238813/story.html

Anyway, they're interested in doing a follow-up interview to check on my progress etc. I'm so happy that they decided to do this, more importantly,I'm so happy I've been able to stay on track!! I'd feel like such a turd if I hadn't! :)

It was always in the back of my mind that they might do a follow-up. I'm actually quite excited to show my progress. The article was done back in January (seems like such a long time ago) and SOOOOO much has changed since. At that time, I had completed only 7 weeks of the journey and had lost 22 pounds. Now, I'm down 30 additional pounds for a total of 52 POUNDS lost and feeling great, and there's just so much to share, including my new plans of training for a 5K run!!!

So I am looking forward to it. They will be sending a photographer to take a current picture....proof is in the pix, right?? I will do the interview next week and keep you posted (as always) as the details become available.

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!)

New Adventures...

Hi guys,

I have decided that I will be running a 5K this Fall - October 4, 2009 to be exact. The CIBC Run For The Cure, here in Ottawa.

My trainer gave me the okay to start training for it and we've incorporated the running plan into my regular training - it will replace some of my cardio sessions. I also decided to start a "5K Training Blog" in addition to this one. It will be just for keeping track of my training and anything to do with the 5K. More like a training log. Check it out @ http://my5k.blogspot.com/

I only just decided to train for this run this week so I'm still in the planning stages. The first thing I'll need to do is get a good pair of running shoes and some more courage 'cause I have to be honest, now that I've committed to this, "I'M SCURRRRED, Y'ALL!!"

Also, about 4 people have offered to train for and run it with me, some are avid 5K runners, others are in that same big-bright-beginner-boat that I currently sit in!!! It would be great if I could put together a team for this race..that would be so awesome - trying to work out the logistics. A post will soon follow soliciting interest and offering more details!! One of my fellow bloggers was also a running coach with the Running Room and has offered to share advice/tips etc...Thanks VegNext Door...Check out her site here: http://thevegnextdoor.blogspot.com/

Anyway, that's it for now...excited!! Check out the other blog!!!

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-In Wednesday ~ Week 24

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 208 lbs (May 27/09)
Current Weight: 206 lbs

This Week's Loss: 2 MORE POUNDS!! YAY!!!!

Hi guys,

Happy to report that I weighed in this morning two pounds less than last week!! It's a different scale, so it may be off 1 or 2 pounds but I'm hoping not. I feel great!! I don't notice much of a difference physically except for my legs...they're definitely smaller than last month. I can't believe I've just completed 5 straight months of this and I am so excited for what's to come.

Quick post..will post again shortly...

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

My "Other" Big News

Hi all,

So I guess I've teased for long enough!! Really, I wasn't teasing!! :)

Anyway, my news is that I have decided to embark on a new adventure ....(and some of you may think I'm nuts)......

I've decided that I want to to start training for a 5K RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Can you believe it??? Am I nuts??? I HATE running!!!

I've been giving it a lot of thought lately, so I checked with my trainer and once he gets back to me, the process will begin!!!

I started a new blog that will be dedicated solely to My 5K Training. It will serve more like a training log than anything, outlining exactly what training I will be doing, including pix etc.

Check out the blog, I put my first post up yesterday. Here's the link:

http://www.My5K.blogspot.com

Until next time....

Joania (2KMINE!!)

Big News - ON THE RADIO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey guys,

First off, thanks for all the well wishes, hopefully, I'll get over this sore throat/cold/flu thing sooner than later. Thanks for all the home remedy suggestions (Kimberley)! :)

So what's my news....well as of yesterday it was one thing but today it's another!!!:) I'll tell you what the original news was later (maybe this post, maybe another).

Okay, so hubby and baby pick me up from work today, I get home, run around with my son for a bit (of late we've been going outside because it's been so nice). I cut it short today because I'm still not feeling that well. Anyway, we came in. I gave my son a snack and came on line to check my emails.

Well, to my pleasant surprise, there was an email titled, "Interview Request"!!! I open it up and it's from Lauren Stone of The LiVE 88.5 Start-Up, a local radio station here in Ottawa. Check them out here. I must be honest, I've probably listened to them once or twice, not a regular listener - but I WILL BE NOW!! :)

They want to do a radio interview with me!! Isn't that nuts? I truly can't believe that people would want to really hear my little story...I think it's cool! So they want to do an interview with me about "my inspiring weight loss story" and how it led to the Particpaction commercial. It would be a 5-10 minute interview, either over the phone or in the studio!! I'm so excited!! Of course I wrote back saying YES!! I think it's awesome.


Anyway, that's it for this news...I will keep you all posted as soon as I get more details.

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

This Sucks!!

It was an absolutely beautiful day today! Clear blue skies, pure white fluffy clouds and a big, bright and hot sun!! It was 20+ degrees celcius today!! So why does this suck? Because I'm sick!! I have a sore throat and runny nose....I know it's just about to get worst...that's what sucks. I don't know if it's a cold or what, kinda feels like the beginnings of strep. GREAT!!!

Anyway, just a quick post tonight. Don't much feel like writing today, even though I've got a lot to say (as usual) but I will post tomorrow or maybe even later this evening. I have some news to share!! :) I'm just going to check on my son, make sure he's sleeping soundly!

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Have You Tried to Cut Your Own Wood??

Cut Your Own Wood And It Will Warm You Twice!! Henry Ford

That is one of my favourite quotes by Henry Ford. What he meant was that the person who chops their own firewood, not only enjoys the heat from the logs burning in the fireplace, but also gets physically warmed from the exercise involved in their labor.

If you really want to enjoy your workout/exercises and benefits thereof, you should “cut your own wood” by doing things for yourself. For years I looked for the quick fix, the miracle drug, the easy solution. If I could just take a pill and have all the weight just fall off!! Let the "science" of that wonder drug do the work for me and I reap the rewards. Well, I know better. I've realized that I will be "chopping wood" for a long time but the "warmth" I will receive will do me wonders!! It already has.

Two weigh-ins back, when I had my first gain, it really got me thinking. I really need to give this my all and continue "cutting that wood". I can't miss workouts and "hope" that the weight will continue to fall off. I can't sneak in unhealthy foods and drinks here and there, and expect those same results!! I must remember to drink enough water throughout this process. I need to consistently and continuously put in the work to see results. I need to chop my own wood!!

Anyway, I'm just trying to regain focus and keep myself on that right path!! I've been really battling it out in my head lately. I mentioned briefly before of my past history of "self-sabbotaging" when it comes to getting fit, "enjoying" the comforts of being fat. I've lost 50 pounds and somewhere in my head, a little voice is saying, "You've lost 50 lbs!! That's awesome!! One BIG MAC won't hurt!!" But I know that 1 big mac will turn into a meal with supersized fries and a large coke (plus 2 apple pies and possibly 6-pc chicken mcnuggets)!! I can't let myself fall back in that cycle. So right now, it truly is a mental battle for me. A head game, you know?

I think back to what my FB friend, Mark once told me, "If your head is right, your ass will follow!". It is so true. Your head really has to be in the right place. I'm starting to think that the mental journey will be more difficult than the physical one.

My trainer, RobLagana once wrote, "the weakest link to the body is the mind!" I can totally see where he's coming from with that statement, and I believe it's true, HOWEVER, I also believe (and I think he does as well) that the mind CAN BE the strongest link. One just has to train the mind to be strong and efficient and that's what I am currently working on, where this journey is concerned. Right now, I do feel like my mind is not as strong as it needs to be, but I'm doing some "mental strength training" right now to get it where it needs to be for me to succeed and achieve my goals AND I WILL!! I AM WOMAN, afterall and everybody knows we can do anything!! ;)

I am not at all bored with my exercise program, it is extremely challenging even at this point and it frequently and progressively changes. I still can't get through all my reps of certain exercises. So, I can't possibly see myself ever getting bored with my training program. Eating is posing a bit of a challenge and I just can't figure out why. I make different meals all the time, and they're tasty!! Always trying new recipes. So I really just think it's my mind right now!!

To be completely honest, I just sometimes feel like I should take a break. Maybe a week or two of eating whatever I want - BUT I KNOW that's not a good idea. That would just set me so far back (maybe not physically), but mentally!! I've worked so hard the past months to adopt this new lifestyle, I really DO NOT want to throw that away, not even temporarily! I'd feel like I was going backwards - and who wants that feeling?? NOT ME!!

So as it stands, I'm still on track but the view is just a little blurry right now. I just need to regain that focus!! I've been really thinking of training for a 5K this fall (Sep/Oct). It would be to benefit Cancer research - so that would be a different type of reward for me. I would have to start training next month, if I decide to go that way. I think just having a different goal (apart from just losing a certain amount of weight - not that anything is wrong with that) may help me to re-focus!

What do you guys think?? Gosh this journey is hard. It is filled with SO MANY ups and downs and bumps and hurdles. I am determined though!! I will keep chopping that wood!!:)

Anyway, that's it for now...

Until next time...

Joania(2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-In Thursday...Back ON TRACK!!! :)

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)

Last Weigh In: 210 lbs (May 16/09)

Current Weight: 208 lbs

This week's Loss: 2 lbs!!!!!!!!!!

VERY HAPPY TO BE BACK ON TRACK!! :))

Yesterday, I woke up at 3am, left my house at 4:00am to catch a 6am flight to Toronto for another business trip. It was a same day trip. Anyway, I returned home this morning at 12:36am. I'm exhausted. I did not work out yesterday but did quite well with my eating (I brought a mini ziplock bag of almonds in my purse for snacking, bought water at the airport - WHAT a rip!! $3.75 for a 750ml bottle!!! Anyway, I also did not get a chance to weigh myself yesterday because I was just swamped and really had no time.

Anyway, I weighed myself this morning and I'm happy to report that it's all good. I've lost the 2 pounds that I gained last week so I'm back at 50 pounds down and back on track!! I feel so relieved!!

Anyway...gotta go, but will post later...

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

My ParticpACTION Commercial - HERE IT IS!!!!

For all of you who wanted to see the commercial, here it is guys!! The first video is the one asking Canadians to submit their stories of what they're doing to stay fit!! The second on is my story. Check it out and let me know what you think!! Enjoy!!

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Slimming Thighs

The following article was written by my trainer, Rob Lagana!! It's awesome and helpful information!! This is just a sample of the information you receive when you sign up for his monthly newsletter. Check out his website and sign up!!! Thanks for this, Rob - YOU ROCK!!!

Slimming the thighs, takes a combination of healthy eating and training.
There are different ways to slim the thighs. There are different conceptions of healthy eating and training. This article is not geared toward the elite in search of building the perfect physique. This article is geared toward women that want a healthier body and smaller thighs. Here we go!

When trying to be fit and healthy, Fat generally comes off at a similar rate and ratio throughout the entire body. The first place fat comes off is actually from your internal organs. There's small amounts fat inside muscle, and if your obese, there can be fat surrounding your organs, and there is visceral fat as well that can be found around your muscle.

Slimming the thighs is something that you cannot directly achieve without the body going through it's own cleanup of fat in other areas.

To speed this process, the best way of accelerating fat loss is to start eating clean and training the metabolism and muscles. By clean eating, you are essentially doing a natural healthy detox. By training the metabolism and muscles, your increasing the demand of calories that your body needs, creating a burning furnace that consumes these calories on a consistent level and your increasing your good hormone production that assists with fat loss and recovery.

As you know certain muscles are larger than others. The legs muscles are large and by training them with resistance, you place a huge demand on your body. Training legs combined with upper body and you got something that will boost your fat loss into the next level.

The foods you want to eat are Chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, red meats, fish oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil, flax oils and lots of vegetables and 1 form of low glycemic complex carb. I won't get into talking about calories, ratios or how to combine these foods. Each person is different and some people may even have sensitives to certain foods.

I will show you a non-traditional weight training workout that will involve your lower body every workout. These are simple workouts, which target total body training.

If you are NOT familiar with these exercises, do not attempt to perform them without first learning proper mechanics of the movement. Hire a personal trainer to show you or find someone with experience. Once you have the form down, increase your tempo but always use good form. Don't compensate tempo with poor form.

These movements are performed in a circuit style fashion.
No rest between sets. 1 minute rest between circuits.

Day 1:

3-5 circuits of the following:

Single Leg Quarter Squats against the wall using a Stability Ball 12-15 reps
Dumbell Squats 12-15 reps
Staggered Stance Dumbell Overhead Presses 12-15 reps
Sumo Squats to Overhead Throw using Medicine Ball 12-15 reps

Day 2:

3-5 circuits of the following:

Deadlifts 12-15 reps
Dumbell Squats to Bicep Curls 12-15 reps
Pushups 12-15 reps
Recline Pull-Ups 12-15 reps

Day 3

3-5 circuits

Frontal Step-Ups using a minimum of 4 planks 5-6 is better (work up to it) 45 sec.
Sagital Step-Ups using a minimum of 4 planks 5-6 is better (work up to it) 45 sec.
Leg Raises using machine or on ground 45 sec.
Machine or ground crunches 45 sec.
Dumbell Lunges (medium stride) 12-16 reps or 60 sec.

Day 4 - OFF

Day 5 - Your choice of Cardio or Yoga

Day 6 - Your Choice of Cardio or Yoga

Day 7 - OFF

REPEAT !

Last Week's Weigh-In...oh oh!!

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 208 lbs (May 16/09)
Current Weight: 210 lbs

This Week's Loss: NO LOSS...+2 lb GAIN!!!!!!!!


Okay first off, I am not upset with this 2 pound gain. I just need to figure out why, not why I gained the weight - just why I always seem to "put it in cruise control" when I'm doing well!!

This is the first time during this journey that I've gained weight and I truly hope it will be the last. I would like to say that these two pounds is from all the muscle I'm building BUT I know that may not be it. Seeing my little "weight loss progress badge" on the right side of the blog, go from '50lbs lost' back to '48lbs lost', really hit me and hopefully was enough to get me back on track!! This gain is from me not being 90% or better (my own goal for myself) with regards to my food and exercise!! And really, that's the secret to success, at least where weight loss is concerned. Eating the right foods and getting the right amount of exercise!! I KNOW THIS!!! Doing it, is what's difficult!!

The Last 3 Days...

While I was in Edmonton, I worked out EVERYDAY and stuck hardcore to my exercise training plan. I was also very good with my eating plan with the exception of having some alcohol and 1 and a 1/2 slices of pizza (small slice). I don't want to make excuses...just want to be straight!!I don't know what's going on with me, but I did not work out on Friday (I travelled that day - but that's no excuse) Saturday (got lazy), or Today (even lazier)!!! Why am I doing this?? Saturday night, I had a peanut butter sandwich on white bread!!!! It was sooo good. I literally said F' it and proceeded to eat it!! Why do I do this??


I can think of nothing that happened to trigger this. Home life is fine, work life is fine (busy, but fine)! I really need to understand why this happens. This journey is not only about me getting healthy and losing the weight, it's also, and most importantly, about me breaking that vicious cycle that has me sabbotaging my progress and regaining whatever weight I had lost!! I am committed to this journey but it seems that I have to kick this up a notch, I feel like I'm slipping and I know that I shouldn't be, because I've been doing so well. Arrrghghhgh...frustrating!!


Being Fat is Sometimes Comforting...

This may seem strange to some, but bieng overweight/obese/fat (whatever you call it) is somewhat comforting. For me, it's easier and I'm willing to bet that quite a few people out there would agree with me on this one! Before embarking on this journey, I would wake up, eat whatever I wanted for breakfast (if I ate at all) and go about my day, stopping periodically to "snack" on whatever I wanted. At work, I could go to the cafeteria downstairs and ordered whatever I wanted for lunch, most of the times not even thinking about what I ordered (usually way too much food - poutine, coca cola, something cheesy and rich with that insta mix gravy).

I would walk through the mall, go straight to the food court and had my fill of unhealthy choices. I wrote before of my love of Cinnabuns! I could order out whenever I wanted to and whatever I wanted to at pretty much anytime of day or night. That was the worst of them all, because after ordering my food from the telephone or internet, I would plop down on the couch, in front of the television as I ate.

As for clothes, I would make an effort for work, but at home it was usually some oversized T's and a comfy (there's that word again) pair of track or jogging pants, that just stretched with me - so the more weight I gained, the more my pants stretched. This is one of the reasons I felt so amazing when I fit into those size 16 non-stretch jeans!!

I hated walking (still not my fav, but I do it more often now)! I rarely moved but to get to and from places like the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom etc. I barely said the word "exercise" much less DID any!!

My lifestyle now is wonderful, I love how great I feel after dong 30 pushups or after strength training for an hour. When I first jogged for 1 full minute on the treadmill without stopping, I felt like I just ran and finished a marathon - I was so proud. When I run up my flight of stairs at home and it doesn't phase me one bit, I feel awesome!! I'm running around with my son and HE'S getting tired before me...this is why I'm doing this. I love these feelings of pride, confidence (not that I wasn't confident before - just more so now) and energy!

When I travel on business and eat out at amazing restaurants for EVERY MEAL and stay on track, effortlessy making healthy choices, I feel such pride.

So why the hell am I not staying on track?? Why am I doing this??

Well, I'll tell you right now, as of 5am tomorrow morning, I WILL BE BACK ON TRACK!!!! I don't think I've done any kind of damage that can't be repaired!!! This is just a minor bump in the road and I WILL get through it! I love how strong and proud I feel when I'm on track! The positive energy that surrounds me is just amazing!!

So, that's it for now. I slipped up, messed up a bit, BUT WILL BE BACK ON TRACK and moving forward as of this moment.

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE)

Questions and Answers

Hi everyone,

I've been getting a lot of questions and comments of late asking for tips and tricks to weightloss. I don't want to sound like those really fit people I used to watch on TV who would always say, "there ARE NO QUICK TIPS AND TRICKS", but I have to be honest. There truly are no quick tips or tricks!! Really! It's about committment, dedication, hard work and discipline. I am working my butt off (literally) everyday and it is a constant mental battle to stay on track. It hasn't been easy thusfar and I believe it's only going to get harder!! I 'm always reminding myself of my reasons for doing this.

There are tools to ensure success (providing those tools are properly used). Two of the most important tools you will need are proper nutrition and proper exercise. For me, by far the most important part of this journey (other than myself, and all the support of my family, friends and blogging community, of course) is my trainer. He's provided me with the proper tools that I am currently using to succeed AND IT'S WORKING!!!

Over the past 5-6 months, I've been receiving a monthly newsletter filled with valuable information and it has helped me on this journey. If you are interested, Rob (my trainer) is the author of this monthly newsletter which is full of valuable information regarding nutrition, exercises, fitness etc. Simply go to his website and submit your name and email address and you will receive his monthly newsletter - FREE of charge. It's loaded with useful and valuable info that can help you on your way to achieving your goals. Visit his site at http://www.laganafitness.com , read the "AboutRob" section to find out about his credentials and sign up for the newsletter. One of my favourite newsletter topics was titled, "Boost Your Metabolic Rate - 7 Fundamentals" - this article outlined (in detail), the 7 things to do to increase that old metabolism and in turn help with weight loss. That's only one of them, i would really recommend signing up for it....it's free info that WILL help you.

I will put up a post detailing what I am personally doing at this phase of my program. I hope this helps! Let me know. Thanks!

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Temptations in Edmonton

Holy crap, I'm struggling y'all!!! Every where I turn, there is some form of temptation. I'm in a constant mental battle to stay on the straight and narrow!!! Arrrrrrrrrgggggggghhhhhhhhh!!

I'm staying at this great hotel, with great food ( a lot of healthy choices) HOWEVER, there are also sooooooooooo many temptations for example:

1. Everyday from 430 to 530 pm, the hotel provides a FREE wine and cheese for all its guests!! Everyday!!! Now the cheese isn't bad, but FREE alcohol as well as breads and crackers, OH MAN!!!
2. Another hotel, just around the corner from where I'm working hosts a "Chocoholic Buffet" every Thursday and Friday nights - it's an all-you-can-eat chocolate buffet. These delectable offerings include an array of luscious cakes and pies, chocolate fondue and more.. how can one resist, well so far I have (I must be crazy!!)
3. Fabulous restaurants and pubs all over the place.

I'm fighting to stay true to the journey, but I must tell you, it's difficult...anyway, I don't have much time so this will be a quick post, however I will return as soon as I gt a chance.

Until then...

Joania (2KMINE!!)

Newspaper Article - Ottawa Metro

Hi guys,

I'm still away on business but had to come on quickly to put up the link to the newspaper article. It ran in the paper today and my husband picked up a few copies this morning. It's available on line, and here's the link:

http://www.metronews.ca/ottawa/local/article/227085--joania-s-amazing-journey

Tell me what you think!!!

Until next time....

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

More Big NEWS - Metro News Ottawa!!!

Hi everyone,

I've got news again!!!! A couple of weeks back, I was contacted by a representative from Hill and Knowlton -the public relations firm supporting ParticipACTION's Inspiration campaign.

Since my story was chosen to be featured in the upcoming ParticipACTION commercial, they (the PR firm) wanted to share my story with the local media and some of Canada’s marketing media. They wanted to know if I would be okay if they went to the media with my story. I told them, "Sure!" ;)

Anyway, I received a telephone call from Metro News Ottawa and gave a telephone interview to a writer named Tracey Tong. She was super nice. Anyway, the article will run in Tuesday's (May 12th, 2009) newspaper!!! The day after the participACTION commercial goes to air!! It will discuss how I feel about being chosen for the commercial, my blog, fitness routines, trainer etc. I'm so excited!! I'm out of town so of course I've tasked my husband with picking up a few copies!! :) My scrapbook will be awesome! Too bad I don't scrapbook!! I am not very artistic when it comes to things like this. Maybe I'll take a scrapbooking course!! It's a thought! :)

Anyway, can't wait to read it and I hope all of you will check it out and like it!! For those not in the Ottawa area, as soon as the link becomes available, I will post it!!

All this is truly helping me stay on track!! It's awesome!!! When I started on this journey, I knew that being accountable and putting myself out there would help me to succeed!! Never in a million years did I anticipate this level of "accountability". This is one of the reasons I kick my own ass working out regularly!!LOL!! Seriously, it really does keep me motivated.

Anyway, 5 month pix next week!!!

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!)

ParticipACTION Commercial - REMINDER!!

REMINDER!!! ParticipACTION commercial airs tomorrow!!!!

Hi everyone,

This is just a reminder that the ParticipACTION commercial will air nationally (Canada) tomorrow - May 11, 2009...Look out for it!!!

I'VE SEEN IT AND I LOVE IT!! IT'S PRETTY COOL!!

ParticipACTION sent me a copy of the commercial last week. I love the concept and how it was done...pretty cool. I can't wait for you guys to see it!!

For those of you not in Canada, as soon as I am able to post a copy I will for your viewing pleasure.

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Happy Mother's Day!

First off, I want to wish all the moms out there a very Happy Mother's Day!!! All the Mommy's, Grand-mommy's and Mommy's to be!! Happy Day ladies!!

This is always a bitter-sweet time for me. I'm a mom to a perfect little angel. Being a mom is the greatest and most important thing I've ever done and ever will do in my life. I love all that comes with it!! However, as most of you already know, I lost my mom almost 17 years ago, so this day is always somewhat difficult for me as well. Over the past 17 years, I've learned to focus on the memories and wonderful times we spent together and that has helped to make the day easier; however it's still difficult. I miss her so much. When my son was born (almost 3 years ago), he brought new wonderful meaning to Mother's Day and made it once again a day I could enjoy. That's what I meant by bitter-sweet.

A little bit about my mother...

She was a wonderful lady, a fabulous spirit and always had this positive energy that seemed to just surround her. She had me when she was only 19 years old. We were very close. This may sound cliché, but she truly was my best and closest friend in this world. We shared everything with each other. When she was 32, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. It was such a devasting shock to me, that from that moment on I truly remained in what I call a "functional state of shock". It shook my world.

My mom was a fighter, she fought as hard as she could and managed to fight this disease for next 5 years!! She perservered through 2 major surgeries, and 3 bouts of chemotherapy, never once complaining as she dealt with what I know was the most difficult, painful and scariest time of her life. She was amazing.

In the end, the cancer unfortunately returned and spread rapidly to her other organs. I graduated high school in June 1992 and remember how sick she was on that day. I told her, "Mommy, I don't have to go to commencements, the school will mail my Diploma or I could pick it up later." She looked at me, with such a sadness in her eyes and said, "I want to hear your named called and see you walk across that stage!" And she did. She was so weak, but managed to summon the strength to come to my high school graduation commencement and witnessed me walking across that stage. I heard her cheering so loudly for me and it just broke me. At the time, not many people understood why I was as emotional as I was that day...but we knew. A few months later, she passed away at the age of 37, peacefully in my arms at home on December 10, 1992.

Although I miss her terribly, I feel her presence all the time. It's incredible. Especially on this journey, I think of her often as she too battled with her weight pretty much all her life and I wish she was here, because if she was, I know that we would be doing this together.

I see so much of her in my son, from his smile to his personality - it's amazing! Anyway, I just felt that I needed to honour her on this Mother's Day eve. Wherever you are, just know that I love you and miss you - always.

I want to wish all the moms out there a fabulous day tomorrow!! I also wanted to send love and hugs to all of those who've lost their moms - please take solace in the memories that you shared with your love ones.

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-In Thursday...FIFTY and Feeling Fab!!!!

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 211 lbs (Apr 29/09)
Current Weight: 208 lbs
This Week's Loss: 3 lbs!!!!!!!!

50 POUNDS DOWN!!! 50 POUNDS!!

I am sooooooooooooooooo happy about this week's loss. It must be the alcohol I drank last Thursday! I'm on cloud 50!!! 50 pounds. As of this morning, my weight is 208 pounds!! I don't remember ever weighing that amount. It's more than likely before I started weighing myself so I was probably 10 years old!!

With this week's loss, I have hit another reward level - a full spa day!!!! Can't wait!! Oh Yeah!!

With this week's loss, I am now 0.5 lbs away from my halfway mark!! 1/2 a pound!! INCREDIBLE!! ROB!!! Can you believe this!! Awesome!!

I am out of town again on business and will be back on Friday the 15th!!! So my next weigh in will be on Saturday the 16th instead of Wed...and I will take my new pics then as well!!!!

Until then, I'm signing off 50 POUNDS lighter and loving it!!

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

UPDATE: ParticipACTION TV Commercial!!!

Just to let you know, the ParticipACTION TV commercial will begin airing on Monday May 11 and should run for around 8-12 weeks so look out for it. I received a call last week advising me of this...I can't wait to see it. I think it will run on all Canadian TV channels at various times!

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

No Weigh-In Today

Sorry guys...I didn't get a chance to weigh in today but will tomorrow morning..I'll post the results in the afternoon.

I must apologize as I've been super busy this week and this pace will continue for a little bit. It's more important than ever for me to stay on track. I will once again be out of town all next week on business....

No worries, I haven't lost my focus!! I will post some stories tomorrow!!

Until then...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Blog Love, Support and Awards!!!!

Hi everyone,

I follow many blogs (most are about the whole weight loss journey and struggles etc.) One of the blogs I follow regularly is this one. It's called "A Daunting Tale of Scale Warfare" and it's just fabulous, honest, informative and a great daily read - inspiring as well. I am so happy and just on such a high and to make things even better, this blogger, who regular comments on my blogs decided to honour me with an award. I was so pleasantly surprised and genuinely happy to recive it. These are the types of things I'm referring to when I say that there is a huge community of bloggers out there ready and waiting to support you. I really look forward to her comments and just feel that we have a special blogger to blogger bond even though we do not know each other!! Thank you so much, it really means a lot to me and left me somewhat speechless (very rare for me)! So here's what I got:

That's my AWARD!!!! I love it, something so simple, but means so much!! I am officially a "Super Blogger"!!! Yeah!!! This really did put a smile on my face. It's really nice to know that there are people out there who enjoy my blog!! It's great. Now with honour comes great responsibility; here are the rules when one receives a blog award (and I love these rules because it affords to opportunity to publicly express appreciation to someone) something I don't think we as a people do enough!!

So now, here's what I must do seeing that I am a recipient of this wonderful award:

1. Tape it up on your blog somewhere (DONE!! and PROUD of it!!)
2. Pass it along to 5 fellow super bloggers, and comment on their blog to let them know how lucky they are today!
3. When you present your Super Blogger awards, link back to the super blogger who gave it to you (thanks again "scalewarfare")

The toughest part for me will be choosing only five bloggers!! I follow and enjoy quite a few blogs which provide me with a daily dose of support and inspiration.......of course "scale warfare" would be on my list but she's already received one...thanks again. So here goes:

1. Tony from http://theantijared.blogspot.com/ - this guy has lost over 200 lbs and has all the pics to prove it!! He's a straight shooter, tells it as it is, very entertaining and a true inspiration. This is the first blog I ever followed and still follow. His only flaw is that he loves cauliflower, but other than that, he and his blog....AWESOME!! Check it out.
2. This lady from http://theincredibleshrinkingfamily.blogspot.com/ - she's amazing, on a journey to lose weight with her entire family, doing it on a single income. She provides lots of tips, recipes, and pix of the foods they eat. I really enjoy her blog.
3. This guy from http://zeusmeatball.blogspot.com/ - is a husband and father who has lost over 170 pounds. He is very honest with his journey. His compare photos are just incredible.
4. This lady from http://gottalose200pounds.blogspot.com/ - I just love the way she writes and her blog is awesome. She is quite inspiring as she set out on her journey to lose 200 pounds. I love her blog
5. And lastly Karen from http://katschisfitcetera.blogspot.com/ - this was the second blog I started to follow regular. she has a wicked sense of humour and I just love her whole outlook on life.

So that's it. I wish I could have given this award to all the blogs I follow, there are still so many on which i would love to bestow this award. Anyway, thanks again "scalewarfare" . This really made my day!

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

OH, What a Night!!!

Well y'all, I've got a lot to say today, the good, the good, the alcohol!!! :)

The Good

Last night was my mini high school reunion; I believe I mentionned it briefly in a previous post. Now it wasn't a full blown reunion, just a group of friends (about 25) from the same graduating year, getting together after not seeing each other since high school (in this case, since 1992), at a nice restaurant to share food, drinks, memories, fabulous conversation and to have a great time!! It was wonderful, I had such an amazing time. Seeing everyone brought back memories, great stories and lots and lots of laughs!! It was such great fun. We hope to do it again next year!!

The Good

My trainer actually gave me carte blanche, well "carte grey" actually , to enjoy myself. I emailed him prior to tell him that I would be attending and I had all intentions of enjoying myself that evening with little to no restrictions. He responded, "Have a great time at your reunion, BUT, if you're going to drink, stay away from fatty foods!" So I took that as one or the other, but not both. Initially, I thought to myself , "Oh man, I'm going to this fabulous Italian restaurant and I could either have a nice pasta dish but no alcohol or vice versa!" I didn't know if I was going to listen to my trainer last night! Do I delete his email and pretend it got lost in cyber space so that I could eat whatever I wanted to? Do I eat and drink what I want and just apologize later?? Oh what to do?? Well I decided to listen to my trainer and just have one or the other!! I worked out that morning and ate all healthy meals throughout the day with the exception of dinner, which I had prior to going to the restaurant...I had 2 small beef fajita's with onions, mushrooms and broccoli and a little shredded cheddar cheese....should've had whole wheat tortilla shells but I didn't...

The Alcohol

I decided to drink y'all AND BOY DID I EVER!! I had a nice buzz going from very early on in the evening. I had a strawberry daquiri with my dinner and drank vodka spiked grape KoolAid prior to leaving my house. My girlfriend was with me so it made it way more fun!! When we finally got to the restaurant for the reunion (around 830pm), I started with a glass of red wine and asked the waiter what his name was, as I knew I'd be calling on him often!!! Once that red wine hit my tongue, it was almost magical and I just couldn't wait to have another - GUILT FREE!! It was awesome!! My best friend from high school was my drinking buddy last night and we fell right back into our old highschool ways ...it felt great....free....fun and no inhibitions..okay, okay, I was toasted all night. There was a smile as big and bright as the moon across my face and I just remember giggling the entire night. See pic below with my BF on the left and a friend from high school who btw, has not aged one second since then!!!! We had such fun last night.

It was amazing!! We had such a blast. I had wine, white russians, and shooters of all kinds (i don't even remember the cute names that went along with each different one I tried that night - I'm referring to the shooters here!!). I felt like a crazy teenager again....Such a fun night and I really did not miss the fatty foods at all....maybe it's because there's was never a moment that I didn't have a drink in my hand!! LOL!!!

I have lots more to write but unfortunately, I have to sign off...will be back later. I am leaving again for another business trip and I need to get packed and prepped, but my laptop will be with me, so I will continue posting later.

BTW, please note that I am wearing a new top that actually shows my arms (I would have never worn that before) there is some definition (probably not visible), the top is an XL...no more 3x, 2x or 1x!!!! I'm also wearing another pair of size 16 jeans!!!

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!!)