Saturday Weigh-In ~ Week 53!!!!!!!!!!

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 170 lbs (Dec 12/09)
Current Weight: 169 lbs (Dec 19/09)
This Week: 1 POUND GONE!!!
Total Loss: 89 pounds!

Hi everyone!!!

THIS IS MY FIRST WEIGH-IN OF THE MAINTENANCE JOURNEY!!! I LOST 1 POUND!!!! I am so very pleased, at best, I was hoping to maintain or even accept a maximum 2 pound gain after the week I've had. I think what saved me from gaining (and even permitted the loss) was that I never missed a workout and I made sure I had healthy meals as much as possible. I had CAREFUL FUN with my meals.

I did have quite a few drinks at the 3-4 events I attended in the past 10 days and this would not normally be the case - it's the festive season. I will definitely be maintaining this regime and enjoying myself through the holidays but come January 2nd, I'm back on the journey path...HARDCORE!! I've got quite a few plans for this upcoming year!! 2010 won't know what hit it!! LOL!!

I can't believe I'm in the 160's...that's just amazing to me. Anyway, I've got a lot to do today so this will be a quick post. Just wanted to let you all know that THE JOURNEY CONTINUES!!!

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-in Saturday ~ Week 52..Final Journey Weigh-in

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 173 lbs (Nov 28/09)
Current Weight: 170 lbs (Dec 5/09)
This Week: 3 MORE INCREDIBLY FABULOUS POUNDS GONE!!!!
Total Loss: 88 pounds!!

This is just awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I lost another pound...that's a 3 pound loss this week. I weighed myself on Thursday which was the "actual" anniversary day (Dec 10th) and I had dropped 2 pounds bringing my total to 87 pounds gone (and my weight to 171) I was thrilled with that loss. Today, I lost another so here it is: MY 52 WEEK WEIGH-IN SHOWS A LOSS OF 3 POUNDS BRINGING THE TOTAL LOSS TO 88 POUNDS!!!! AMAZING!!!

88 Pounds!! That's a new reward level!! I think it's concert or a play!! Whooohoooo!!! 2010 is gonna be JUST AWESOME!!!!!!

Next week, my weigh-in will mark the first of my "Lifestyle Maintenance Journey"!!

I'm preparing for tonight's big dinner party..got my nails done and everything (having a little trouble typing right now - lol, gotta get use to these THINGS!!) hahha Really excited about tonight!

I will try to take lots of pix...still trying to decide what to wear...last week, the weather was great; you could still see the grass outside. As of today, after a 30 cm dump of snow and a significant drop in temperature, I'm not too sure about that "little" black dress I was planning to wear!! We'll see!!!:)

Okay, that's it for now, until tomorrow...have a great Saturday!! :)

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-in Saturday ~ Week 51:WOW!!!

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 175 lbs (Nov 28/09)
Current Weight: 173 lbs (Dec 5/09)
This Week: 2 MORE INCREDIBLY FABULOUS POUNDS GONE!!!!
Total Loss: 85 pounds!!

WOW!! WOW!! WOW!! OH MY GOODNESS! I AM OVERWHELMED!!!

ONLY 16 pounds left to go to 101!! Well I know that won't happen! The only place I've ever seen a 16-lb loss is on the TV show the Biggest Loser!!! I am not bothered by this one bit!!! I AM THRILLED with my weight loss and more importantly my fitness and health this year!!

Next weigh-in will be my 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!! One whole year since embarking on this incredibly amazing journey, where to be honest, I wasn't sure that I would last 1 MONTH!!!

I am at a loss for words today! I can't imagine how I will be on the 10th!! Those of you who have come to know me over the past year (and those who've known me for years), know that I am RARELY at a loss for words, but today, I am. Truly.

I've lost 85 pounds - I am 1 weigh-in away from my 1 Year!! This is just wonderful. I am so proud of myself and more importantly, so excited for the future....I'm in a "so what's next?" mode!! The wheels in my head are in constant motion, thinking of all the things I want to try out - there are so many!! One is that I want to join some local sports team (soccer, softball, volleyball, hockey) - who knows??? I just want to try!!

I'm going to get my hair done on Monday and will probably just make a whole spa day of it (mani, pedi, facial etc.) WHY NOT??? Gotta look good in those pix!! My girlfriend (who's been my friend ever since I was 7- so more like my sister) bought me a hot little black dress!! Whoohoo!! can't wait to see it...I'll take pix!!!

Putting the final touches on the celebration dinner. My little man (3-year old son Malcolm will be my date for the evening)!! My husband will be there as well but has to leave early as it is also his annual staff Christmas party!! The date couldn't be helped - quite difficult to get reservations for a large party at restaurants around this time with all the Christmas parties going on - so we'll just make the best of it!!

This morning I had a 4-egg white omlet ( chopped onions, mushrooms & green peppers) with a turkey sausage for breakfast. I drank about 1.5 litres of water by that time. I made 2 pancakes for my son (and did not have 1 bite, nor a lick of the syrup!!_ :)

Today's lunch will be a salad with some left over grilled salmon!

Dinner - SPAGHETTI and MEATBALLS!!!! Okay, here's the truth. The "pasta" will actually be spaghetti squash and two meatballs made from extra lean ground sirloin with fresh tomatoes, a bit of tomato paste and veggies - it's really good!

Today's plans...no exercise!! I will be cleaning the house from top to bottom and putting up the Christmas tree and decorations - finally!! Then later this evening, hitting the malls to get started on the x-mas shopping!! I think I will be burning a few calories in there somewhere.

On Sunday, I may be trying a "SPOGA" class!! It's a combination of Spinning and Yoga!! It sounds interesting and tough. I hope I will be able to make it - I'll let you know how it goes!

Until then...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-in Saturday ~ Week 50

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 177 lbs (Nov 21/09)
Current Weight: 175 lbs (Nov 28/09)
This Week: 2 FABULOUS POUNDS GONE!!!!
Total Loss: 83 pounds!!

Wow!! Week 50!! Only 2 official weigh-ins left!! Incredible! This week, I lost another 2 pounds and I'm thrilled!!! It's just awesome. I weigh 175!! I don't remember ever weighing 175. I feel amazing. I'm at about a size 14 right now, even 12 in certain clothes. I think I look really good. I'm not super thin or anything....just healthy which is all that matters to me at this point.

With only 2 official weigh-ins left, I know that I will not hit the "101 pounds" mark and I don't care. I remember at the start of the journey, I was doing some research to find out what I "should" weigh for my height - my ideal weight. I found out that for my 5'5 frame, being female, I should weigh 136 pounds!! 136 pounds!! I remember thinking to myself, "yeah right, 136 pounds!!" So I then just decided I would try to lose 101 pounds - why 101? I have no clue....there was no logic or strategy - it was literally the first number that popped in my head. Losing 101 would take me to 157 pounds.

Now that I can look at my body after losing 83 pounds, and assess how I feel, strength and health wise, I think I would be fine with maintaining a weight ranging between 145 and 155 pounds. This will be my lifelong goal. To be consistent with my training and nutrition in order to keep me at a healthy 145 to 155. That would give me 10 pounds to play with. I will be turning 36 on February 27, 2010 and I am now setting a new goal of weighing 150 by that date. That's 25 pounds away - I CAN DO IT! This will give me the incentive I need to stay motivated and focused. After that, I will be setting new goals, different goals that do not center so much on weight, rather on fitness and health. I think my first non-weight related goal will be to start training for a triathalon (a mini one - i think they're called "Try-a-Tri") and then possibly a 10K run - who knows?? The sky's the limit! :)

I was in the mirror flexing my arm muscles today and laughing at how silly I looked.LOL! But I've gotta tell you - I feel SO STRONG!! I have some loose skin on my arms (and tummy and legs) BUT, that strong rock hard arm (and abs and legs) is under there and you can see it!! Pictures in 2 weeks...

My journey will not stop after the next two weigh-ins. I have totally changed my life and lifestyle for the better and have done so many wonderful things because of it...AND WILL CONTINUE to be able to do even more wonderful things!! Can't wait for tomorrow, and the day after!! :)

Have a great weekend!!

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-in Saturday ~ Week 49

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 180 lbs (Nov 14/09)
Current Weight: 177 lbs (Nov 21/09)
This Week: 3 FABULOUS POUNDS GONE!!!!
Total Loss: 81 pounds!!

Day 13 of the last 30 days brought another awesome loss this week!! 3 POUNDS!! I have lost 81 pounds since starting this journey! Incredible. ONLY 3 WEIGH-INS LEFT!!! 20 pounds to go!! I don't think I will lose 20 pounds in the next 3 weeks but I will do my best to lose as much as I can and honestly at this point, the number really no longer matters! I am feeling and looking amazing and strong and healthy! I'm just in a great place. Plus, the journey doesn't end in the the next 3 weeks.....THE JOURNEY CONTINUES!! :)

I got a chance to sleep in a bit today (until 730), then was awaken by my 3-yr old. I put him in the stroller and went out for a nice jog this morning. I had planned for 45 mins but made it 30 minutes instead. Today, we're hanging out and doing some fun stuff just me and him (husband is working today)! We may even take in a movie today! :)

That's it for now...hope you all have a fantastic weekend!

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-in Saturday ~ Week 48

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 185 lbs (Nov 7/09)
Current Weight: 180 lbs (Nov 14/09)
This Week: 5 FABULOUS POUNDS GONE!!!!
Total Loss: 78 pounds!!

"A" for EFFORT, BABY!!! :)))))))
WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! I DON'T THINK THERE'S ANYONE ON THE PLANET HAPPIER THAN I AM THIS MORNING!!!! 5 POUNDS!!!!! NOTHING BUT SCALE LOVE TODAY!! ALL THAT HARD WORK PAID OFF BIG THIS WEEK!! YES!!YES!!YES!!

This is frigging awesome!! I must confess to you that mid week, I took a peek on the scale and I had noticed that I was down 3 pounds and wanted to do back flips (wouldn't know how if you paid me - that may be my next goal)!! I did not want to get excited because we all know how that dreaded scale can be, so I just made up my mind to keep the intensity up and push through the rest of the week hoping to maintain that 3 pound loss BUT to my delirious delight this morning, it's 5 POUNDS!! I am over the moon today!!! Over the f-ing MOON!! !:)))))

78 Pounds in total gone!! That's a new reward level! I'm getting a new BIKE!! yeah!! When I wrote out these rewards, I wasn't thinking about the weather! :) Living in Canada, I can tell you I may only have one or two weeks of bike riding weather left, unless I want to ride in the snow!! So instead, I think I'm going to look into purchasing one of those spin bikes and keep it at home or pick a new reward - I'll keep you posted!! Either way, those 78 pounds are gone!

I am just thrilled that the scale reflected the effort I put in this week with my training and eating and I'll tell you this is some crazy motivation for me to keep up the pace and intensity AND I WILL!! I'm super pumped right now!! My plan is to keep up this momentum right through to the end (AND BEYOND!!)

Here's what I think I did RIGHT this past week:

• Clean eating each and everyday!! No excuses! No cheating! Resist all temptations! Made certain to eat 6 small meals each day. Kept all foods from the whole food group - nothing processed.
  
• Drank at least 2-3 litres of water each day! Stayed properly hydrated throughout the day, especially during workouts.
• Didn't miss/skip one workout session (weight training and cardio) and more importantly, I made each session count - effort was high to excellent for each session. It was tough but worth it!
• Tried to get at least 5-6 hours of sleep each night. Ideally, I should be aiming for 8 hours each night. That's my plan for next week.
• I planned ahead. I made all my meals ahead of time so they were ready when I needed it, didn't have to think about it. I packed my lunches and snacks ahead of time.

That's what I planned and did this week and it worked so this is what my plan will be for next week as well. I have to try to get a couple more hours of sleep at nights and that should be good.

Today, I have a cardio session. I was going to go to a lunch time kickboxing class but unfortunately my husband has to work, so I'll just hit the treadmill for a run and that will be it for exercising today. My son and I are going to do some house cleaning and then grocery shopping and later, some sort of 3-year old type, fun activity! :) Hubby and I are going out to dinner this evening - no worries, he's a vegetarian so I'll have no troubles keeping it healthy tonight. We'll more than likely go to a vegetarian restaurant - btw, I have a new found respect for vegetarian restaurants!! :)

Today's breakfast was three soft boiled eggs (I ate two egg whites and one whole egg) with a warm spinach salad - yum, and 800ml of water.

Snack will me a protein drink (vanilla whey protein, water)...I'm thinking of mixing up a batch and freezing it in popsicle containers - make some homemade protein pops. That way it will feel like a treat when I'm having it. I'll let you know how it turns out.

Lunch will be a grillled salmon fillet and green salad plus water

Afternoon snack will be 12 almonds, water

Dinner - that, I'm not sure yet (something from the vegetarian restaurant) - it will be healthy

Night snack - green tea or maybe a boiled egg and cucumbers (it will depend on if I feel hungry)

So that 's it for now... I'm on a fabulous high and feeling great y'all!!! HAVE A FABULOUS WEEKEND!!! :)))

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Day 5 of My 30 Day Countdown

Hi everyone!!!

The week is over! Day 5 is done!! Whoohoooo!!!

First off, thank you so very much to all of you for the wonderful and supportive comments this past week (and always). It really keeps me going!! Thanks :)

Okay so it's Friday already!! I had ANOTHER FABULOUS DAY!! This is amazing...I am in such a good place. This week, I just proved that I can stick to a plan, once I make up my mind, stay focused and JUST GET 'ER DONE!!!! I don't know just what it is, I just feel great!! I'm FULL of energy and all I want to do is workout and eat right!! Who would of thunk it??? I look forward to my weight training sessions - it makes me feel so powerful!!! And kickboxing and Jiu-jitsu have just brought out a new person in me altogether!! I don't know if it's just exhilaration from realizing that I've stuck to this for a year!! I gave it my best and I just want to give it even more than that as I push through!! I'm just happy and proud of myself!

Okay, so this morning I slept in!! I didn't hear my alarm and missed my regular 5:am wake up!! CRAP!!! It was 6:30 in the morning, there's no way I would have time to do my weight training session and make it to my son's daycare on time or make it to work on time for that matter. I would have to do the weights in the evening!! I was a bit worried, I'm usually so wiped by the time I get home that I just wasn't sure I'd have the energy to get the job done tonight. Plus, I had a 4:30pm Kickboxing class today!! I'll just DO IT!! I'LL JUST DO IT!!!

So I got to work this morning and couldn't wait for the day to be over to get my workouts in! Can you believe that? It's true. Finally, the day was done. I headed off to Kickboxing. Sensei Derek's first words to me were, "Oh, have I got something planned for you guys today!!" as he smirked and walked away. That meant only one thing......PAIN!!!!! He hit us real hard today, drill after drill of punches and kicks and core work. He split us up into groups of 4. We were doing 30 second intervals of a particular exercise - each person did something different - from holding the plank position for 30 secs, to non-stop jumping jacks, non-stop crunches, jack rabbits/mountain climbers (you're on all fours taking giant strides - it sucks) then we'd rotate every 30 seconds. I think we did that 8 times!! We were dead after! He was just smiling!! Evil!! Evil but awesome! I am really enjoying his class and feel great...AFTER!! Once again, I was drenched in sweat and just ran out of there at 530 as my husband and son came to pick me up. We headed home.

I literally got in the house, changed my clothes, it was just soaking and went to my basement to get my weight training session in. I could do every exercise but one at home - which is what I did. There is a ton of squats and lunges in this routine (don't worry upper and total body is covered as well)!! I really pushed through and got such a great workout - it was incredible!!! I was amazed at my energy level. My son is really cute! He came downstairs and counted with me as I did reps - it was sweet and he sat on my back as I did push-ups!!He's almost 40lbs, that wasn't sweet!! :) I came upstairs after and had a protein drink (whey protein, water). I feel good

So tomorrow is weigh-in Saturday!! I can't wait to step on that scale, I really gave it my all this week so I'm hoping the scale will cooperate!! I will be a bit disappointed if it doesn't but it won't be the end of the world! I'm down 73 pounds and I feel fantastic - so that's all that should matter!

Food was great today.

I tried something new ( I mixed tuna and broccoli together, sprinkled some black pepper, sliced some red peppers and wow!!) It was actually really good!! That was lunch today. Breakfast was a 3-egg white and mushroom omlet. Dinner was a roasted chicken breast and steamed veggie medley (cauliflower, onions, spinach and zucchini - basically whatever veggies were left in the kitchen). I'm off to the grocery store tomorrow! :) Snacks were brazil nuts and a protein drink. About 4.5 litres of water today - the extra 1.5 litres was because of the workouts!! I just couldn't get enough water today.

So that's it for today... I'll be posting the weigh-in results tomorrow..a bit anxious to see!

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-in Saturday ~ Week 47

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 187 lbs (Oct 31/09)
Current Weight: 185 lbs (Nov 7/09)
This Week: 2 more pounds Down!!!

Total Loss: 73 pounds!!

I lost 2 pounds this week!! Yeah!! Next week I KNOW that I will lose more than two pounds!! I'm going to WILL it and put in the work to make it happen. This was my first week with the new weight training program and although I gave 100%, it's a new program so I was focused on ensuring that I had the correct form and adjust my weight as necessary. I've done it 3 times now, so I'm GOOD TO GO for next week!! I'm going to ROCK it out!! I'm excited!

ONLY 5 Weigh-ins LEFT!! 28 POUNDS TO GO!!! 5 Weeks of intense, hardcore, bad ass training and clean eating!!!! 2 more pounds to shed until the big 75 pound loss!!! This is awesome! This journey is almost over, but the lifestyle has JUST BEGUN!! :)

WOW!! I am truly amazed at how quickly this year has gone by, especially the last few months!! It's incredible how far I've come on this journey and all the amazing things that have happened to me!I still can't believe I got to work with ParticipACTION and it's amazing staff (especially Katherine)!!! I met and hung out with an Olympian (Sue Hollaway), ParticipACTION President and CEO Kelly Murumets and Vice President of Sun Life Financial (Josée Dixon)!!! Insane!! I'm starring in a national television commercial that's running currently!! Crazy!! I've been featured in several major newspapers (see links on the right side of my blog - under "I Made The Papers")!!NUTS!!! I made the list for Ottawa Life Magazine's TOP50 People in the Capital!!! I've been on the radio (Live 88.5) talking about ME and MY journey!! Madness!!!!!

Most importantly, this blog/website has afforded me the opportunity to "meet" so many wonderful and inspiring people who have shown me such immense support over the past 10 months - it's just amazing!!In my wildest dreams, I never anticipated all of this would happen, just by me making the decision to get healthy!! I can truly say that I am different person and well on my way to continuing to do great things!

I am so pumped...had an amazing workout this morning...tons of squats and lunges. I'm really working hard on trimming my thighs as they are my most "troubled" areas! My trainer ROB really put together a great routine that will not only strengthen my entire body, but targets my legs as well!! I'm really going to push my body to the max the next 5 weeks!! Leave everything out there. I don't want my last weigh-in to come around with me regretting that I hadn't pushed myself hard enough in some workouts!! THAT IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN!! I plan to make EVERY WORKOUT COUNT!!!

For breakfast this morning, I had a soft boiled egg, a medium tomato (sliced), two turkey sausages and an 8oz protein drink (8oz of water & 1 heaping scoop of vanilla whey protein) right after my workout!! Also drank about a litre of water! For lunch, I'm having a cucumber and tomato salad with sardines for lunch and about a litre of water. Not sure what's for dinner as yet, but I'm leaning towards roasted chicken breast and roasted veggies (broccoli, zucchini, sweet potatoes and onions). YUM!!☻

Tomorrow is my "rest day" but I'll probably get a yoga session in, just to help relax the muscles or take a nice walk with my son.

That's it for now...hanging in strong!

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-in Saturday ~ Week 44

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 191 lbs (Oct 10/09)
Current Weight: 188 lbs (Oct 17/09)
This Week's Loss: 3 lbs

Great week!! Great Loss!!

70 POUNDS GONE BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm absoulutely THRILLED with the loss this week!! 3 POUNDS!!! I now weigh 188lbs!!! 188lbs!!! I am out of the 190's!! I also hit another reward level, another milestone!! I will be planning a weekend getaway (more details to follow). 188!! I can't believe it.

Where has the time gone??? Although my "deadline" (for lack of a better word) is fast appoaching, I WILL definitely continue on this journey!! This journey will be for life and I am looking forward to it....I can't and I WILL NOT go back. I am starting to think of my new goals, new objectives because come Dec 10, 2009, I want to ensure that I am prepared and that I have planned for the next phase of this journey - the lifelong phase, which I believe will be the most difficult of all. To be honest, I don't see how it will be really different from what I'm doing currently.

My plan is just to continue on, striking that balance with everyday life and my new lifestyle. That is the reason it was so important for me continue with my life throughout this past year on this journey. I did not want to put my life on "hold" while I was on this journey. I have made quite a few sacrifices over the past while and I realize that those sacrifices were warranted, however I did enjoy my life and friends and events, special occasions etc. I didn't go nuts and I think that has helped me to keep my sanity and move forward and that will help me as I continue on to the next phase. This is one of the things that has worked for me and works for me - it may not work for everyone.

Until next time....

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-in Saturday ~ Week 43

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 192 lbs (Oct 3/09)
Current Weight: 191 lbs (Oct 10/09)
This Week's Loss: 1 lb

Another pound gone and out of my way!! YES!!! I am happy with the loss this week for a couple of reasons. First, a loss is a loss and is ALWAYS better than a gain!!! :) Secondly, it was one of my girlfriend's birthday so we celebrated by going to dinner at Moxie's and had a great time. To be honest, I was a bit worried that I would have had a gain this week so I am truly pleased!!

I've lost 67 pounds in total so far!!! 67 pounds!!!! I am 1 pound away from another reward (weekend getaway) and I "only" have 34 pounds left to go in order to achieve my 101 pound weight loss goal!! I can't believe how far I've come, I am so proud of myself!! As I was updating my blog, I also noticed that there are 9 weigh-ins left until the big one year weigh-in on December 10th!! Incredible!! Only 9 weeks left! :) This is just great! I think that birthday dinner celebration/planned cheat meal will be my last one for awhile. I may not have another one until my big final celebration in 9 weeks!!!!! I'll think about it and decide!! I'm pretty sure I'll do it!

This week, exercising was awesome - as always my weight training is challenging and effective and I'm really starting to get into the kickboxing and Jiu-jitsu classes for my cardio. I stuck to my eating hardcore...very healthy breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks and ensured I kept properly hydrated by consuming enough water. The only exception with my eating was the birthday dinner I mentioned above. I decided that I was going to have whatever I wanted and I did!!! It was amazing! I didn't feel any guilt because it was planned and it was only one meal and also, I got right back to business the following morning with an intense workout and right back on the nutrition plan. So here's what I had for my cheat meal session:

I started off with a couple of nibbles from a nacho plate...yum..yum...crunch..crunch!!More appetizers came out (dried ribs, sweet potato fries, sauteed mushrooms)....these were all shared but I know I consumed a lot of it....everything was delicious!! OH I almost forgot, I had a huge bellini (slushy type drink with alcohol - holy sugar!!) but it was yummy!!

My meal... I decided to go for the "fall off the bone" succulent slow roasted ribs with a loaded baked potato and a side of steamed broccoli (had to have some semblance of health on the plate)!! I then finished off the night with a sticky toffee pudding cake served with one scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzled in caramel. Everything was D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S!!!!!!! I also had 3 shooters!! These things were amazing and I wanted more!! The ingredients: red bull, red sour and something else - I forgot what's in it but it's called a "FLORIDA TRACKSUIT"!! I don't know why, but it is GOOOD!!! My new favorite shooter!!

I had a fabulous time and what I'm starting to realize is that every now and then, this is exactly what I need. That whole "moderation" thing. After all it was only one meal! Not like in the past when I would eat like this every couple of days and not to mention all the other unhealthy stuff in between!! So it was a great time with great friends and great food! :)

Now, time for the food porn...at first site of the appetizers, I just started eating, then it later came to me to take some pics...lol. I took the pix with my cell phone so the quality is not the best, but here they are:
My Bellini: Slushy sweet alcohol drink! Yum! By the time I took the pic, the slush had melted (and half of it was gone, lol). I told you it was big.









Dinner: slow roasted ribs, loaded potato and broccoli. It was delicious!














Dessert: Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce - TO DIE FOR!!

Weigh-in Saturday ~ Week 42

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 195 lbs (Sep26/09)
Current Weight: 192 lbs
This Week's Loss: 3 Pounds RETURNED!!!

Hi guys!!

AWESOME!! I stepped on the scale this morning and was so thankful to see that I RETURNED those 3 pounds I put on last week!! YEAH BABY!!! Back on track!!! The digital scale read 191.5, so it's actually 3.5 down..but that's cool ;0)

I'm thrilled about it!! Great news to take with me as I prepare to go into my very first 5K race tomorrow morning!!! Nothing but positive vibes!!! I picked up my run kit today (T-shirt and race number) so it's official, no backing out of this now.

I went for a nice walk this morning...nothing too strenuous, just to keep my muscles loose!! Today just relaxing in preparation for tomorrow!

I will be posting results and pics tomorrow...wish me luck!!

BTW, I misplaced my cell phone so if anyone has been sending text messages or trying to call I will not be available. I've asked the phone company to temporarily de-activate the phone until further notice. I have an idea of where it may be but I will need to check on Monday.

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Saturday Weigh-In ~ Week 41 (Confessions)

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 192 lbs (Sep 19/09)
Current Weight: 195 lbs
This Week's Loss: 3 POUND GAIN...

Hi guys,

Well unfortunately I have a gain to report this week... a 3 POUND gain!!! I can't be upset or even disappointed because I totally caused this gain. I wasn't at all careful with my eating and I missed a 3 days of exercise. I didn't fall off the wagon, I literally pulled it over, parked it and jumped off!!

As you know, I've been away on business this past couple of weeks. I also wrapped up phase one of my project at one of my pilot locations which in itself was a cause for celebration. I celebrated freely by eating cake (2 pieces) and rice krispies squares....yum-oh!!! I even had 1/2 a glass of Coca-cola (way too sweet btw - didn't really enjoy it) but the cake and squares were to die for!! I knew the scale would have no love to give this week. I also had "not so healthy" dinners, like spring rolls (fried), dried ribs, chicken wings and sweet potato fries. In addition to the bad foods, I accompanied my meals with a beverage or two or three (Heineken beer, wine and bellinis!!) I think the only thing I did right this week was my water consumption!! :)

So there, my confessions!! Forgive me Rob (my trainer) for I have sinned!! BUT THE FUN is over. This morning, I woke up and got right back on my wagon and going full force. I've just returned from my 5K walk with my son (stroller and all). I plan to do a weight training session later this evening as well. I had a 3-egg white omlette with spinach and broccoli for breakfast. So far I've had about 2 litres of water for the day. So it's all good.

Today is a new day and the past is in the past. So that's the update for today. I'm going to do some reading, catching up on my blog buddies and to get some inspiration!! Have a good day y'all.

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Saturday Weigh-in ~ Week 39

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 195 lbs (Aug 29/09)
Current Weight: 193 lbs
This Week's Loss: 2 POUNDs GONE!!!!

Total loss to date: 65!!!

2 more pounds gone and I feel great. I was a bit worried since I did not weigh-in last week. I had no idea if I lost or gained weight - I just felt great, and still do! 65 pounds gone - that is just amazing to me....that's 2 toddlers...CRAZY. I am so thrilled with how far I've come.

My trainer got back to me regarding my new adventures with Martial Arts (Kickboxing and Ji-Jitsu). Not surprisingly, he is very supportive (as usual) and thinks that it's great that I am opening up my new fitness lifestlye to include other activities. I just need to keep him aware of how I'm feeling as I start including the martial arts...he wants me to keep track of things like my appetite and whether it increases or decreases and just overall feeling! He's awesome.

I'm excited for all that is to come...

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!)

Saruday Weigh-In ~ Week 36...That's What I'm Talking About!!!

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 198 lbs (Aug 15/09)
Current Weight: 196 lbs
This Week's Loss: 2 POUNDS GONE!

Total pounds lossed to date: 62!!!

MUCH BETTER!! The scale is moving on the downward again!! Thank goodness. Very happy to report a loss today!! Fabulous. This was a great week food wise and exercise wise. Got a busy day today so I will keep this post short...just wanted to report the progress and let you guys know that I am back on track...

Have a great one!!


Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Saturday Weigh-In ~ Week 35...WTF????

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 197 lbs (Aug 8/09)
Current Weight: 198 lbs
This Week's Loss: 1 POUND GAIN...WTF????

Total pounds lossed to date: 60!!!


Okay, I'm pissed off with this week's weigh-in, in addition to being frustrated and baffled. I stuck to my diet like you wouldn't believe with the exception of Wednesday, when I had a late breakfast and a multi-grain bagel for lunch. I never missed a work out, so WTF??? Why am I gaining weight!! I'm heading in the wrong direction, according to this feking scale!!!!


Okay, now that I got that off my chest...I realize that these things happen and the body does some weird and crazy things at times so I just need to keep my focus and move on!! A 1 pound gain is not that bad, I will bounce back. One of my friends told me that the weather has an impact as well. The last few days have been extremely hot and humid so this could just be my body holding on to some of that extra water/fluids I've been drinking - I don't know...whatever it is, IT SUCKS!! But I digress.


I will move forward. After this post, I will go and do my workout. This evening, I plan to go for my run. I've also decided to start taking pix of my food again (it takes a lot of effort to take those pix and load them) but I think it helped me to be that much more disciplined... I took pictures of my dinner last night and this mornings breakfast (see below).


So today, I'm not too thrilled with the results but this will just make me push harder.

Last nights dinner (curried chicken breast (roasted) with broccoli (lightly curried) and of course...WATER!!!

This morning's breakfast was a 3-egg (2 egg whites, 1 whole egg) omlet with spinach and green onions:

That's all for now...I don't know what I'm having for lunch as yet, but I will take a pic and post it maybe later on.

Until next time...

Joania(2KMINE!!)

Saturday Weigh-In ~ Week 34

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 198 lbs (Aug 1/09)
Current Weight: 197 lbs
This Week's Loss: 1 POUND

Total pounds lossed to date: 61!!!

I actually weighed myself on Friday morning...don't think the results would change in one day (at least, I hope not) LOL!

Another loss...a pound is a pound!!! I'm happy with it!! This was a good week. Ate well and exercised well!

I made a few adjustments to my training after speaking with my trainer Rob, regarding the pull-ups! I HATE PULL-UPS!!! I can do 2-3, then it's a shaky struggle to get through the rest of the reps. I'm not giving up..I'm going to do as many as I can. In my case, my plan calls for 3 sets of 8 repititions. I can do 3 reps per set, which btw I think is a huge accomplishment. So, I will do 3 pull-ups and 5 close-grip push-ups until I get strong enough to do more reps of the pull-ups.

That's it...quick post today, got a busy day ahead, will post again today if I get a chance...if not, then tomorrow.

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!)

Saturday Weigh-in ~ Week 32...Time to Re-FOCUS

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)
Last Weigh In: 199 lbs (July 5/09)
Current Weight: 201 lbs
This Week's Loss: IS NOT A LOSS AT ALL......2lb GAIN
Total pounds lossed to date: 57!!!

Okay, so I'm back in Twoterville!! CRAP!! However, I can assure you, I'm just back here to pick up the last of my things....this WILL be a very short visit. My new and permanent home will be in Onderland and I am heading there very soon.

I'm not at all surprised with this 2 pound gain with the way that I've been eating, however it has been a couple of weeks since my last weigh in, so it's really not as bad as I thought it would be. I remember when I first met with my trainer, he mentioned to me that success on this journey will be pretty much 80% healthy eating and 20 % proper exercise (don't quote me on the percentages)....the point is that I need to ensure that I'm eating well even if I am on point with the workouts. There has to be a balance and you cannot succeed with just one!

This was a huge lesson learned!! No dwelling on the past, time to re-FOCUS and start living in the NOW!!! It's time to enjoy my cheat meal and kick it up a notch from that point on. Had a great workout this am and a nice healthy breakfast. I'll keep you posted...

Until next time...
Joania (2KMINE!!!)

Weigh-In...Week 29 ~ ONEderland!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Starting Weight: 258 lbs (Dec 10/08)

Last Weigh In: 201 lbs (June 27/09)

Current Weight: 199 lbs

This Week's Loss: 2lbs!!!

Total pounds lossed to date: 59

Well...this is my GOOD NEWS!!! I have FINALLY made it to ONEDERLAND!!! The actual weight on the scale read 199.4 yesterday. It could have read 199.9999999 and it would still be awesome to me!!! I was out of TWOterville!!! YEAH!!! It was fabulous!! I've done it and I feel great about it!! I am down 59 pounds!!! This is amazing!! Starting this journey back in December, I remember saying to myself, "If I could lose 50 pounds and weigh around 208lbs, I'll be happy!!" Well now I WEIGH 199lbs!!! This is only the half!! I have no doubts that I will lose the rest of the weight and reach my overall goal of losing 101lbs!! I can't wait 'til that day!!:) I feel great!! That picture on the left is exactly how I feel, crazy hair and all!! :))

Another reward level accomplished!!! My reward for reaching this level (58lbs lost) is a "C'est La Vie" eat-whatever-I-want-day!!! Well, yesterday, I ate very healthy all day. At the wedding reception I had steamed veggies and fish and a salad. It was delicious. I had a small piece of cake. HOWEVER, I thoroughly enjoyed the wine (both red and white) in addition to a "few" rye and gingers and a shooter!! :) Hence the reason why this post did not go up last night nor early this morning :))) I wouldn't have been able to type my name last night, if you paid me lol!! So although it wasn't an "eat-whatever-I-want" DAY, I think that qualified as my reward. It worked out better this way, plus I don't really want to eat badly ALL day. The cake and alcohol were good enough rewards!! It was a great wedding, fun...I danced all night....it was wonderful!

Anyway, that's it for now...signing off very happy today. Off to get my cardio workout in for the day.

Until next time...

Joania (2KMINE!!)