My Journal... (July 2009 - Sept 2009)

Email: slimming4health@dodo.com.au

Curent Weight Loss Progress

Weight Watcher's Starting Weight : 119.2kg

Lowest Weight Achieved: 89.5kg (Lost 29.7kg)

Immediate Pre-Pregnant Weight: 94kg

Pregnancy Gain: Up 27kg to 121kg

Restart Weight: 111.4kg (2wks post birth)

Weight Watcher's Goal Weight: 76kg

Personal Goal Weight: Pending

Home

Click here to access a page titled "What's on this site"

This page provides links to all the other pages of my website/s

Me & my boys :)

      Next Goals!!!

• Back to 100.x on the scales
  

• Return to 3 exercise sessions a week minimum.
  

    Full list of goals here

      

Love my boys!!

Click HERE to go to the new page that begins Oct-Dec 09

Wednesday 30th September, 2009...

Just a reminder..... I now run an update email list.  This means that each time I update here I email those on the list a quick one liner email to let them know a new update has been published.  This saves some people coming back in the meantime and finding nothing. 

Anyone who would also like to join this list simply email me at slimming4health@dodo.com.au and let me know :)

It's that easy!!

I know entries are pretty scarce of late but I've been super busy enjoying my school holidays with the boys :))  I still have to work as normal, two days a week, but it's lovely to have both boys home together on the other days.

This morning I packed them up after breakfast and headed to the beach.  It was BLISS!!!!

They paddled, we walked, found shells and played in the tiny gente waves.  A lovely way to spend the morning on such a beautiful day :)

Wow I have to create a new page again already tomorrow....where has this year gone???

TFTD: "If you are what you eat, then I'm cheap, fast and easy!!!"

Cheers P

Tuesday 29th September, 2009...

Booyah!!!

I did it again :))

Another loss this week!!!

0.4kg down this week so... with last week's loss that's 1.5kg lost in the last two weeks.

Am happy with that!

:) :)

TFTD: "What are you going to do, starting today, that is going to make a difference to your life???!!!"

Cheers P

Tuesday 22nd September, 2009...

FINALLY!!!!

A decent loss at last to get me started on the long journey back to where I had previously made it in my weight loss.

A loss of 1.1kg today....wahoo!!!!!

I'm a happy girl :)

Alas though I cannot stay and ramble on to you today about just how happy I am as I have bigger plans for my day.

This is of course week 1 of the 2 wk September school holidays for Caleb and on the two daycare days of each week I get to spend some 1:1 time with my big boy Caleb :)  He's just as excited as I am about it :) 

Today we are doing some shopping together (for bedding for Talyn's move into his 'big boy bed') and some fun things together at home and maybe a visit to the park.  On Thursday he and I are going to the cinema together to see "Up".

I love getting the chance to spend quality time alone with him as I already do so often with Talyn while he is at school.

Holidays are exhausting but fun all the same.  My boys have very little extended family interest or involvement in their life so for them it's all about us.  And "US" love them to death!!! :))

Speaking of family.....we all enjoyed another lovely visit with my sister Vicki on the weekend when she traveled up for her reunion.  So lovely in fact that it's a wonder I lost any weight at all this week after a VERY VERY heavy weekend of partying *wink*  The boys were so cute with them and Talyn wouldn't stop calling out "Aunty Bicky, Aunty Bicky" all weekend....lol lol  A great time was had by all.  Come back again soon!! :)

TFTD: "Make the changes that will make the difference!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Thursday 17th September, 2009...

Oh for god's sake!!!!

Am I ever gonna see those numbers on the dreaded scale go down again?

I have seen those numbers go up, up, up  since February and it's driving me CRAZY!!!!!!!

Tee-he

To be honest though.....life since February has been a nightmare for the most part.  I've not gone into any details here before now but the short version is that Simon and I came VERY close to separating during a period between Feb-Apr.  It's been hell and then some.  But you know what....we've come out the other side stronger then EVER before so I guess that's an achievement.

The thing is now it's time, as life settles back down now, to some semblance of normality, that I need to get my grove back!

Not just in my eating but also my exercise and my commitment to this site and this entire process as a whole.

I started the exercise again at 5am yesterday morning.  I faced the dreaded WW scales last night - as hard as that was.  It had been 6wk's since I'd last been and I was not overly shocked to see a again of 3.5kg in this time.

Aaaargh!!!

But....thank god it's done now.

Just baby steps forward now Paulene.

Baby Steps!!!

I need to stop focusing on all the weight I have been regaining and instead just focus on taking it off little bit by little bit. 

For right now my number one goal: A loss (of ANY amount) next week at WW.

Baby steps :)

TFTD: "No success is ever final!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Wednesday 16th September, 2009...

Well I'll be damned!!

I actually did it.

I got up in the dark this morning to go exercise just like I'd promised here yesterday that I would!

Simon left for work just after 6am so my alarm went off at 5am.  I got up but found it still dark so I went back to bed for a while to wait and see when it would get light out.  By 5.15am I was good to go so I headed out and did just one lap of my old circuit.  I used to do 2 x laps in an hour which included 12 very steep hills but today I just did the one lap in 30mins (due to time restrictions) and so included 6 steep hills. 

Then I came home by 6am and did 100 crunches and 10 push-ups.before jumping in the shower before Talyn woke up :)

I've weighed and measured out my breakfast (baked beans) and have a new tracker ready to go. 

Tonight I am going back to WW.....and to face a gain which I estimate could be as high as 2 or 3kg in the weeks since I've last been....and I'm getting a new points guide while I'm there too.

I'm ready.

The time has come.

It's good to be back baby!!!!!!! :)

TFTD: "Without action there are no results!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Tuesday 15th September, 2009...

Yikes it's been a week since I last updated??  What a week it was!

It was Simon's birthday on the weekend and we had a MASSIVE all night party for it.  Friends....drinks.....firepit......BBQ.....it was an AWESOME night!!!

The boys were fantastic and went to bed without a whimper when it was time and I think the last adult that wasn't sleeping over here left about 2am.  Simon the old bastard *wink* is now 35yrs old and I think that was one of his best parties ever :)

Needless to say after a massive weekend the return to the working week was a shock to the system.  So shocking in fact that I had last night off on sick leave.   Tee-he

I was sick though so I had a lazy day and home with Talyn then once Caleb and Simon were home we set up a mattress in the lounge and had a pizza and popcorn night while all watching the Wall-e DVD.  Not a bad flick.  I actually bought a copy of the DVD new as Caleb's wanted it for a while now.  Our kids movie collection has slowly depleted over the years as more and more get scratched or damaged so it's about time we started buying one a week or so to re-build our supply :)

The boys absolutely loved the novelty of the night and it was so inexpensive and simple. I even bought my own garlic bread and microwave popcorn so all we had to buy was a couple of cheap pizza's.  What a great night :)

And now onto an even better day....Tuesdays!!!  How I love Tuesdays :)

The boys are at school/daycare for the day, I'm feeling much better today and I have a very social day ahead to look forward to.  After this entry I'm going to hit the shower and make myself boo-dee-ful as I have a morning tea date with my hot hubby at McCafe this morning.  He's working nearby today so it was his suggestion and I love it!

Then after that I have two different friends who want me to visit them so it's bound to be a busy day :)

And on top of all that.....I had an idea.

A simple idea.

Not even a new one at that!

Why on earth, now that the days are getting lighter earlier, and my days are getting busier....have I not got back into early morning exercise sessions???  I used to go out at 5.30am every week day and get a good workout in before my day even started.  Then on a good day I'd get another hour done late afternoon after Simon got home, but even if I didn't at least I'd had my one hour a day.

Ok so I do hate getting up early...especially now we stay up much later!  And since Simon now leaves about 6am I'd have to actually leave the house at 5am to make it back in time......but still??  I SO SO SO need to get back into my grove.  Summer is fast breathing down my neck and NOTHING FITS at the moment!!!!!!!

I'll not make any grand plans for now.  History tells me they too often fail me.  So instead I'll make just one promise.  TOMORROW I'll do it.  It's only one day right?  How hard can it be?? 

LOL LOL LOL Famous last worked *wink*

ps.. on the weekend we got our latest family portraits back too....we LOVE them!!!  Will post them here for you to see just as soon as I can get them scanned :)

TFTD: "The only limits we have are those we impose on ourselves!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Tuesday 8th September, 2009...

THANK THE SWEET LORD for a sensational tax return that I have just found out about today!!!!  Ok so I may not get it for a few weeks yet but I cannot even BEGIN to explain to you how much we need that right now!  *shudder*

It has made a good day even better :)  Today is my mate Jo's birthday so me and my vodka redbulls are heading round there soon to celebrate.  My usual Tuesday day off just get's better *wink*  Of course I got sugar free redbull but still....it would be better if I didn't consume those calories of course. 

Yeah right!!!  I've always lived along this journey and always will :)

I actually had an almost REALLY good day yesterday.  Perfect all day until the very last minute when I gave into a munchies attack and had some chicken Shapes crackers.  D'oh!!!  Still....the rest of the day was better than I've done in a long while so it's one baby step forwards :)

I've given up on any of the final outstanding challenge stats coming in :(( I just don't know why so many people join up over and over again and never see it out???  It's frustrating and makes me think it's just not worth running anymore???

Anyhoo....I'm not going to loose my buzz for today so I'm off to party with my friend.

Have a great Tuesday everyone!!!

ps don't forget...for anyone who wants to be on an update email list for this site (so you know when I've updated) just let me know at slimming4health@dodo.com.au

TFTD: "You are as happy as you make up your mind to be!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Monday 7th September, 2009...

Yikes!

It's been that long since I was last here??

It's a good thing I'm making a fresh start today huh?

Putting aside my recent failures/gains and lost focus.

Every day is a new day and this is mine :))

Before I leave today I'd like to share another great tip I got from my WW emails (see entry below)

8 Ways not to cheat on your healthy eating plans!!

www.weightwatchers.com

1. Plan for treats.

Making sure you get to enjoy your favourite treats every once in a while will help you from feeling deprived. Pick a night each week when you can indulge in something decadent like a piece of chocolate cake. Give yourself permission to truly enjoy your dessert! Taking time to savour a treat is always more satisfying than gobbling it down with feelings of guilt.

2. Put your kitchen cupboards on a diet.

If most of the foods in your house are healthy, then you're already halfway there. If you must have tempting foods around for a special occasion, store them out of sight or buy them at the last minute. On the big day, enjoy your favourite foods and send any leftovers home with your guests.

3. Choose your friends wisely.

Beware of any 'friend' who continually tries to coerce you into 'just a cappuccino' which you know really means a cappuccino and a slice of carrot cake with icing an inch thick. Put these friends on hold until you're feeling strong enough to say no. Or suggest a different kind of get-together such as a walk in the park or an afternoon at the movies.

4. Count the cost as well as the kilojoules.

Allocate so many dollars per 5 kilos you plan to lose and save the money in a separate account or piggy bank. Or 'pay' yourself so much every day you stick to your weight-loss plan. Then treat yourself to something fabulous like a new outfit or a day at a beauty spa.

5. Picture yourself.

Find some not-so-flattering photos of yourself and place them strategically at prime temptation spots - the fridge, the biscuit jar, or in your desk drawer. That way you will be reminded of the positive changes you're trying to make to your life whenever you're tempted to overindulge.

6. Surround yourself with witnesses.

Tell everyone you are changing your eating habits. Give them permission to remind you of your dedication to better health if they catch you falling off the wagon. Make sure you have chosen friends who will support and encourage you. The last thing you need is someone who will try to trip you up.

7. Check up on yourself.

Write down every single thing that passes your lips each day. If you often eat when you're upset or stressed, try to record this too. If you gobbled up a chocolate bar after arguing with your partner, you probably need to find alternative ways of coping with your moods. Next time try phoning a friend or going for a stress-relieving walk.

8. Keep a sense of proportion.

We all slip up from time to time. We all forget our best resolutions and bend the rules. The worst thing you can do is give in and say 'Well, I blew it. Let's forget it. I'm never going to succeed.' But it's not the end of the world - just get back on track and keep going for your goal.

TFTD: "Begin as you intend to continue!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Thursday 27th August, 2009...

I recieved a great email from Weight Watchers today that I thought I'd share with you all.  For anyone who hasn't visited their site it's well worth the effort :)  Once there you can join their email list for great inspiring, tip packed emails each week.

6 EXCUSE BUSTERS!!!!

"People may set unrealistic goals or deprive themselves in extreme ways that are very difficult to maintain," says psychologist Bethany Teachman. "It's no wonder so many people lose weight initially but then have difficulty keeping the weight off."

1. I need to go on a "diet"

"The whole concept of a 'diet' sets us up to think we will be 'on a diet' then 'off a diet,'" says Teachman. Instead, think of your weight-loss plan as a lifestyle commitment to healthy eating and exercise, for the long haul.

2. I'll get back on track on Monday/after the holidays/when the sun comes out.

There's no day like today. If you slip, just pick up where you left off. Persistence works wonders.

3. All my problems will be solved when I lose weight.

Losing weight may leave you feeling healthier and happier — but it won't make you more lovable or turn you into a runway model. Be clear about why you want to lose weight. "It's far more motivating to strive toward being fit and energetic than it is to strive toward being a size 0," Teachman says.

4. Fat people don't deserve to eat.

Do you forego the office pizza because you're afraid people will think you shouldn't be eating? Seeing yourself through others' eyes in a harsh, critical way "is a sure-fire way to blow a weight-loss plan," says Teachman. Instead, she suggests to focus on developing a more loving relationship with your body.

5. I shouldn't wear swimmers until I've lost all the weight.

Lots of people of all different sizes enjoy sexy clothes. "When you love yourself, you start enjoying life," says Teachman. Break big goals into smaller ones, and reward yourself along the way. Rather than saying, "I need to lose 10 kilos," say, "I'll buy a new cozzie, one size smaller."

6. The less I eat, the faster I'll lose.

Wrong. The less we eat, the slower our metabolism gets, and the slower we lose the weight. "Deprivation makes us unhappy and actually causes us to overeat and overindulge," adds Teachman. A slow and steady approach — including treating yourself to your favourite foods, in moderation — is your best bet for building a healthy relationship with food and reaching your long-term goals.

I think there is something in that for all of us don't you???  :)

TFTD: "You are as successful as you make up your mind to be!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Wednesday 26th August, 2009...

I feel like every time I come on here lately I'm apologising :(

Apologising for having not updated in a while.

Apologising for doing a CRAP job on my weight loss and exercise of late.

Apologies, Apologies.

No more!!

I know you guys and gals know I have a life.  A rather busy one of late too.  Some week's I get to update most days, some weeks I'm lucky to do one.  Such is life.  For those that continue to come back regularly and check...I thank you :)  For those who get fed up and don't - your loss ;)

I have an idea that MAY help some of you though.  I can run an update email list.  If you'd like me to add your email (blind of course so no-one else get's it) to a folder which I'll use to send out a quick, one line email, each time I update...then you'll know when to check and when not to bother :)  If you'd like to be on this update list just email me and slimming4health@dodo.com.au and I'll join you up.  You won't get spam etc and your email address will remain private.   What do you think?  I just came up with that idea on the spot and all *wink*

I also need to remind everyone about the challenge that is in it's final week.  Several of you are quite behind so I would be ever so thankful if you could catch me up on your recent stats.  If you have a look on the weekly totals you'll see that there is pattern of so many of us gaining in the final weeks.  It's so hard to keep up momentum and motivation over time isn't it??  It's not just me!!  I can't believe I've once again gained overall :(  Hardly setting a good example or providing any inspiration am I???  I used to be SO motivated...what happened to me???

At least I have a few minutes to update in peace today as Caleb is at school and Simon is at playgroup with Talyn today.  Simon is completely out of work at the moment.  Like totally :(  It is an INCREDIBLY stressful time for us all just trying to survive here at the moment, hence why my updates have been rare and short.  Life has just been drowning me.

And typical me....I have turned to food in this time and just can't seem to find my way back on track???  I've had to cancel my WW Unlimited membership (and our Austar TV and every other possible area we can cut expenses - but not Internet!!) so I couldn't even weigh in this week.  My home scales show I may be 0.5kg up but I'll see what comes next time I do weigh-in.  My local WW leader does not charge for missed meetings so instead of paying $60 or so a month on unlimited I can just go weigh-in once or twice a month and that way only pay $18 each time.  It may have to be just monthly for a little while but that's still nearly $40 saved a month :)  For us right now EVERY little bit makes a big difference.

In some ways it's good.  It's helping us to use the clothesline and not dryer, to turn lights off, to turn the computer off each night etc.  I'm having to get more create with food and lunches etc too.  This afternoon the boys and I will be baking some Blueberry muffins together for a cheep snack alternative for this week's lunchboxes and treats.  A box that makes 15-20 mini muffins, and only needs water added, was less than $2 - bargain!!!

In a continued effort to look on the bright side I thought of something else also that is a positive of Simon being out of work - more time for me to exercise.  With him home with the kids more I can get out more alone to work out.  Now wouldn't that be a change from my sloth lifestyle of late!?

Seriously though...we cannot survive like this for long :(  I've asked my work for more shifts but nothing so far.  Is very stressful and a huge strain on us both and our relationship right now. 

Come on lotto win!!!!   Oh no...that's right....I can't afford a ticket :(

TFTD: "Failure is success if we learn from it!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Thursday 20th August, 2009...

Hey :)

I've just finished updating the boys pages for those who follow.

Caleb latest entry is here.

Talyn's latest entry is here

Enjoy! :)

TFTD: "To forgive and forget is far better than to resent and remember!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Wednesday 19th August, 2009...

I know, I know

It's been a long time since my last update.

I'm trying to get the time, honestly.

I've managed to get all the challenge stats updated today....those I had anyway.  Many of them are late???

Not feeling great today so going to leave it here.

TFTD: "No matter how far you have gone on the wrong road, turn back!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Tuesday 11th August, 2009...

Ok gals and guys....  Just a super quick entry today as I am flat out!!

Had the most awesome weekend away at the Gold Coast on the weekend...and we went to Dracula's Theater Restaurant for my sister's 40th and had a TOTAL BLAST!!!

Will fill you all in on it and post pic's from our trip in the next few days.

Of course the trip did take it's toll on the scales for me with a 0.52kg gain but I think that will go again pretty fast now that I'm home and back on track.

I've just updated all the Challenge stats that I had waiting to do....but many are still quite behind.  Could you catch up please if that's you :)

Ok ... sorry for brief entry today...but will fill you all in on more next entry.

Toodles!!! :)

TFTD: "I LOVE Tuesdays!!!!!!!"

Cheers P

Friday 7th August, 2009...

**Yawn**

I'm always so tired on a Friday after working until nearly midnight each Thursday.   Had 6hrs sleep last night.   Lucky it's Friday though as that day itself gives me plenty of buzz alone ;) 

Am heading to a mate's place this afternoon after I have my nails done, for a catch up and a couple arvo drinks then coming home to cook tea for the tribe and pack ready for our trip away tomorrow morning (see yesterdays entry for all the goss on our weekend away)

So...as I've done the last two days...I've got a few more points to discuss in my plan to tackle this BIG weight problem in easy LITTLE steps.  The last two days entries have the bulk of the points but here's a few more for today:

• For Meets sake!! -  I SERIOULSY have to start going to my WW meeting and staying for the meeting EVERY week or I may as well stop going.  I could always weigh myself each week at home on my bathroom scales or the Wii Fit for example rather than pay $60 or so a month for meetings I just don't attend.  I do need the accountability that's for sure but the Wii keeps a great record so that's another option and I could have Simon check it for me each week?  I really love the WW plan and I agree totally with their system but if I'm not staying for the meetings I know the plan well enough to save my money.  However I do find that when I go every week and actually stay you always get at least one or two great tips from each meeting, from the leader or other members.  I think before I quit I need to commit to attending every week and staying for the meeting, for at least a month.  If I don't find it helps then I'll stop but for now I have to give it a better shot first.
  

• Weekend Warrior! - I wish I didn't find it so hard on weekends!!!  I know I'm not alone on that one.  I can do great all day of course but come the night time it's drinking alcohol, partying or entertaining that is always my downfall.  This topic was actually the weekly topic at WW this week and their suggestions include using the extra time we have on a weekend to do more exercise or something active as a family.  Cooking WW recipes or bringing a low point snack when entertaining or visiting others on weekends. Or saving up points during the week to allow yourself a weekend treat.  They actually listed common excuses for weekend slips and I could sure relate to some of these!  How about you?
  

*I've been so good all week, I deserve to let loose a little on weekends

*I'll have fun at the party tonight and reign myself back in on Monday

*I can't be expected to be perfect all the time

*I'm too tired to cook a proper meal this weekend, let's just have take-

away

*I deserve a sleep in, I'll exercise next week

         Some of those sounding familiar to you too?

• Vodka Redbull Please Waiter! - I know I often sound like a total alcoholic *wink* but I don't' think I'm quite that bad??  On average I would drink usually two days a week, sometimes 3.  I only drink in company/social situations and while I drink a fair bit of vodka/redbull when I do I don't get falling down drunk (usually) *snicker*  I know though that the calories do add up so I always go for sugar free redbull etc to limit points where I can.
  

• You eat where??? -  I eat one meal a day at the table.  How about you??  If I eat breakfast it's usually standing up in the kitchen while I'm emptying the dishwasher, feeding the boys, or doing some morning chore etc.  Tea is at the table as a family at least but lunch is always on my bed.  It's my 'time off' each day once I've fed Talyn, read his stories and tucked him in for nap I'll lay on my own bed with lunch and a magazine.  *bliss*  I know though that this can lead to mindless eating if I am reading and not paying attention to what I'm eating.  This also means I don't register that I am eating and therefor feel less full or satisfied from it.  I think this also contributes to the evening trap of munchies as I've probably come to associate my bed or relaxing with food.  Hmmmm???  Interesting!  Will have to try to eat lunch at the table more and see if that helps.
  

Anyway....that's enough for another day.  I've given myself much food for thought (pardon the pun) over the last few days and hopefully it may bring about some positive changes.

Enjoy your weekend everyone, I know I will!!!

I'll be back to chat more with you on Monday or Tuesday :)

TFTD: "You are what you make of yourself!!"

Cheers P

Thursday 6th August, 2009...

Well for the first time in a LONG time I had a great day yesterday :)  Just talking about those points (below entry) that I wanted to work on had me ticking at least 3 out of the 4 already on my first day.

For a starters I didn't drink a single fizzy drink yesterday.  Coke Zero and Sugar Free Redbull run in my veins but yesterday I had nothing but water.  Ok granted, I only had 1 litre but hell...that's the most water I've drank in one day in months and months so I'm feeling good about that.  I was really craving a diet soft drink of some sort in the evening but I'd already made sure I had none cold in the fridge so water it was :)

Yesterday I also avoided my daily frozen WW meal for lunch.  Instead I had my other favourite sweet chili tuna and light Philly on cruskits....yum!  I am taking a frozen dinner to work tonight for tea but if I could cut out the five or so a week I have for lunches that would be a lot less salt in my diet - and more money in my pockets :)

And the other thing I did yesterday....exercise!  Only the second such time I've done exercise in literally months!!!  I mowed the back lawns so it was only 45min's but I made sure I was cutting a fine pace during that time :)

Just like I suspected....tackling little things like this each day is bound to add up over time into some big changes in lifestyle, finances and of course on the scales!!

Which brings me to some more points I need to address:

• Let thy life be fruitful!! - I am terrible when it comes to my fruit intake.  Terrible!!  As a family we eat a massive amount of fresh veggies every week which is fine, and the boys at TOTAL fruit bats.  I buy at least 15 pieces of fruit a week just for them alone...but me....hardly a piece passes my lips.  I've had one mandarin this week and that's it.  So I've popped another mandarin in my work bag to have tonight and I'm going to TRY to eat more of it more often from now on :)
  

• Breakfast like a Queen!! - I think I'd probably average maybe 2 or 3 breakfasts a week...and even then it's only because I've started to go for a convenient can of tuna on the run.  I've never been much of a cereal person and the same goes for toasts etc.  Sure I'd love some sugary cereal fix but in avoiding that I tend to avoid it all.  I know tuna is a kind of a weird choice for breakfast but it's low fat, high protein etc so it can't be all bad right??  Maybe I could combine two points in one and have a piece of fruit at least for breakfast....now there's an idea!!!
  

• Dairy Schmairy!! - I'm terrible with dairy!!  I drink milk even rarer then I'd drink water (and you know how rare that is) and while I don't mind the occasional low fat cheese on something I'm not a regular yoghurt eater either.  I've read on more than one occasion the difference that 3 serves of low fat dairy a day can do for weight loss so I've really gotta get better at this.  Hmmmm maybe I could have a skim milk and fruit smoothie for breakfast each day and voila....3 points taken care of in one!!!  Dam I'm getting good at this *wink*
  

• Evening Snack Attack!! - this is easily my biggest downfall of every day.  I can eat great all day, have a good dinner then come the boys bedtime, when it's time for Simon and I to unwind I'm ravenous!!  We have been eating fairly early with the boys in winter, about 5.30pm, so I guess that's part of it.  We like to eat all together at the table as a family though so there has to be a better way around this??  Maybe I need to save a few points up for a supper snack, or simply plan ahead what I'll have so that I'm not left up to temptation at the last minute. I'm not really a dessert person as such though.  Last night I had some rice crackers and salsa and a mini milky way bar...that satisfied my crunchy/salty craving and my sweet tooth in one with no major damage done :)  Of course as Summer returns and the daylight lasts longer our dinners will move back to about 6.30pm which will help too :)  Maybe I should be having a low fat yoghurt at night with some fruit for an evening snack (gee I'm becoming good at combining several problem areas into one solution! - you can do anything when you sit down and brainstorm a bit)
  

There's more of course.....I still have 4 points at least to discuss (where I eat, weekends, WW meetings and alcohol) but I'll save those for tomorrow.

One of my readers referred to me as an inspiration yesterday *blush*  I know I might have helped motivate others when I had lost 30kg and was working out every day but for the life of me I don't know how I can keep the readers coming back these days when I'm doing so poorly.  In any case....thank you!!!!!!  I don't deserve such labels but gee it sure feels nice all the same :)

I'm off to work tonight of course...ho-hum.  Job sucks but it pays so well - what's a girl to do?? *wink*

We are very excited about our trip away this weekend.  Today is my sister Vicki's 40th birthday and on Saturday we are traveling to the Gold Coast to celebrate with her.  Her party is at Dracula's Theatre Restaurant on the Gold Coast.  $89 a head and that includes a three course dinner and live shows/entertainment from the staff.  Not sure what will be served of course but I'll just try to take it easy in the days around it. 

Our best mate Julie is a TOTAL LEGEND as she's agreed to come with us on the trip and stay in the motel with the boys while Simon and I both attend the dinner.  Without her only one of us would have been able to go so THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU Julie!!!!!

Ok...catchya's tomorrow :)

TFTD: "Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out!!"

Cheers P

Wednesday 5th August, 2009...

Well I gained...again.....Aaaaaargh!!!!!!!!!!!

0.6kg up which now puts me 0.3kg up for the challenge overall in 3 wk's.  Dammit!!!!!

I'm so SICK of gaining!!!!!!

It got me thinking last night about what little things I can do to make a big difference.

The following is an impromptu partial brainstorm list:

• Drink water!!! - I kid you not when I say I drink a glass of water maybe once a month!  The rest of the time an average day is a Coke Zero and a Sugar free Red Bull.  Not only is that not enouh liquid but it's WAY the wrong kind!!  Then lots more Red Bull and vodka on the two or three days a week that I drink.  I mean seriously!  What can I possibly hope to achieve when I am putting my body into a constant state of dehydration.
  

• Banish White for Brown!! - I read an interesting section last night in my book "101 things to do before you diet" about this topic.  It really made me understand, perhaps for the first time, the effects brown Vs white carbs have on your body and in particular insulin.  Rollercoaster insulin levels leads to rollercoaster appetites and that's just not going to help.  I already eat brown or mostly multi-grain bread, and I have basmatti rice which is low GI...but this week I'm going to branch out more into heavier brown breads, brown rice and even brown spaghetti.  I can hear the howls of protest from the males in this house already at the thought of brown spaghetti *wink*  Seriously though, the boys eat really well and I'm sure they'll take to it in no time.  Simon is always happy to support what I need to eat so he'll grumble a bit but he'll still eat it :)
  

• Less Frozen, go Fresh!! - Most days of the week I eat a frozen WW meal for my lunch and two night a week at work I have one for tea.  Now while they may be a convenient choice for work dinners twice a week, the daily lunch one could be replaced with something so much better.  Not only are the frozen meals expensive but they are also high in salt which once again does me no favours.  I think I always grab one because it's easy.  After Talyn is fed his lunch and read his few stories before bed each day I just pop one in the microwave, grab some bread (no butter of course) and I'm good to go in 6 minutes.  But how long would it take to make my own lunch instead?  Not much longer I'm sure
  

• Exercise, exercise, exercise!!!  - I don't know what happened to the me who used to do 2hrs exercise a day and 1hr on Saturdays??  11hrs a week!!!  Now I'm lucky to do ANY at all in the last few months since life went a bit crazy on me.  I always used to make the time for it but now the thought of dragging myself out of bed at 5.30am in the morning, in the cold and dark....*shudder*  I just have to "Just Do It' as Nike would have me believe.  I think I'll start with an hour of lawn mowing this afternoon in fact
  

There's plenty more points but I'll leave it at that for today.  Don't want to overwhelm myself with too much to begin with.  I'll be back tomorrow with more of my brainstorms...tee-he.  Already I can think of issues related to alcohol, weekends, evening munchies, WW meetings and many more.  Feel free to contribute any of your own suggestions via the guestbook below or drop me an email at slimming4health@dodo.com.au.

I'm off to playgroup now!!  Happy hump day all :)

TFTD: "You develop a habit through repetition!!"

Cheers P

Friday 31st July, 2009...

Remember all that stuff I said yesterday about the spring cleaning I was going to do today....Forget it!!!

I worked from 2.30pm yesterday afternoon until 3am this morning.... + 1hr travel time....means I got to bed at about 3.45am and was awoken to Talyn crying out for me at 6.45am.  3hrs sleep is just not enough.  Aaargh!!!

It doesn't help that Talyn is still sick...or at least wakes that way until he has some paracetamol and nurofen each morning (and bedtime) to keep his temp down and his headache away.  Poor little bubba.

And because Simon's car is out of action we are stuck home all day as he has my car so I think it's going to be one looooong day :)

I will still have a dig around for my weight watchers recipe books but that will be about the extent of my energy exertion today.  I fell so incredibly tired, achy and just plane exhausted.  I've also had cold symptoms for a couple of days so I guess that's contributing also.

But...it is Friday.....I love Fridays!!!!  We have a busy weekend coming up.  I'm visiting a friend this afternoon for a gossip and some drinks before I come home to cook tea for the troops.  Tomorrow we have swimming lessons, Simon's car to fix, some work for Simon to do painting at our neighbours house (for babysitting to come), a end of year tax return and two BAS's for me to do, a 7yr old b'day party Sunday afternoon, lawns to mow and maybe cocktails with another friend on Saturday afternoon.

Yikes....I need a good nanna nap just thinking about all that :)

TFTD: "The sooner you exert the discipline, the sooner you will be enjoying the results!!"

Cheers P

Thursday 30th July, 2009...

Work day again for me today - ho-hum :)

Talyn is home sick today instead of at day-care.  He came down sick AGAIN yesterday, after already having been sick last week?  Just temp and runny nose, no appetite etc again.  Last week the Dr said it was just a common cold so I'm just keeping an eye on it this time and see how he goes.  Already seems to be improved, but if MORE parents would keep home sick children then these things wouldn't have to go around and around like they do.

I've just finished updating the latest Challenge stats...everyone is doing so well!!!  Keep up the great efforts :)

Tomorrow I have a task for myself lined up.  I'm to go through my cupboard that is packed with recipe books and hope to find my dozen or so WW cookbooks.  I've collected them over the years and they can all still be adapted to the current points system.  I'm really looking forward to trying some new recipes.  I'll post whatever I try here for you to try also :)

I'm also undertaking a MASSIVE clean out and de-clutter of my house again like I did before Talyn was born.  I'm taking every item of furniture, every cupboard, every window, every wall etc...one at a time.  Tomorrow I'll tackle my bookcase as well as my recipe book cupboard.  By Christmas time I'll have this place sparkling inside and out before my family all arrive and by de-cluttering the toys we'll be ready for the avalanche of new Christmas toys to come :)

It's a great way to spring clean your life!

TFTD: "You can do it if you believe you can!!!"

Cheers P

Tuesday 28th July, 2009...

Ahh Tuesdays...my favourite day of the week.  My day ALL to myself from 9am - 3pm.  Heaven!! :)

Weighed in this morning...A loss!  Even if it was only 0.3kg it was a start in the right direction.  I know I've been partying pretty hard on weekends of late and drinking a lot and getting very little sleep etc - which of course does me no favours on the scales - so I'll take whatever loss I can get :)

I did at least do a 40min walk yesterday.  First exercise I've done in literally months since my life went to hell in a handbasket a few months back.  Maybe this is the beginning of my turn-around point? 

It's been long enough of a wait right?  Tee-he

Well I'm going to keep this short today and go put my favourite Slow Cooker Chicken on for tonight's dinner and pre-peel all the veggies etc.  Then it will be easy and ready to go tonight.

Have a great Tuesday all - I know I will!!!! :)

Oh and the pic's I promised are below todays entry :)

TFTD: "All accomplishments come from daring to begin!!"

Cheers P

Our Boys.....

       Talyn @ daycare                             Caleb @ year 1 - 2009

       June 2009

We love these latest pic's of our boys :)

Monday 27th July, 2009...

Ok...well I made that new recipe for the boys tea last week and the little bit I tried tasted DELISH so I've copied out the recipe below:

Hoisin Beef Fried Rice

• 1 pkt SunRice 90sec microwave Basmati Rice
  

• Cooking oil spray
  

• 3 eggs lightly beaten
  

• 500g lean beef mince
  

• 1 capsicum finely chopped
  

• 2 cloves garlic crushed
  

• 1.5 cups frozen pea, corn, carrot mix
  

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
  

• 2 tbs hoisin sauce
  

• Optional - 1/2 cup fresh chopped coriander and 1/2 cup roasted cashews (I used neither of these today or in my points calculations for this dish)
  

-Cook rice in microwave for 90sec's and set aside

-Spray non-stick pan with oil spray, whisk eggs and swirl in pan to form thin omelette.  Remove eggs from pan and thin slice and set aside

-Cook mince in non-stick pan until browned.  Next time I would purchase heart smart mince but as I only had regular lean/premium mince I allowed it to drain on absorbent paper for a few minutes after cooking to remove extra oil.  Using heart smart mince would of course reduce the points for this dish considerably

-Return meat to pan and add vegetables, garlic, rice, egg and sauces.

-Stir fry to combine

-Serves 4 @ 7.5pt's per serve but again, this number would be greatly reduced if I'd had leaner mince available to me to use.

It looks and smells great though and the small taste I had was delicious!!

Well it's Monday for another week - and I had another great weekend!! 

We got a babysitter on Friday night and both Simon and I went to visit a friends place.  There was quite a crowd there and we enjoyed letting lose for a few hours.  I got to sleep at 4am that night and up again at 6am Saturday,....tee-he

Saturday was full with the usual tasks, swimming lessons for Talyn, housework, haircut for Caleb and some new school shoes etc.  Then that night we had two other friends come round for drinks and company with us for the evening.  We lit the fire out the back again and all had a great time :)  I think I made it to bed before midnight that night at least - I think!

Sunday Simon had to work for half a day so I took myself, the boys and my hangover shopping then I baked mini cupcakes with the boys.  They were decadent little mouthfuls of chocolate cake, creamy vanilla icing and flaked white chocolate to decorate.  Caleb and Talyn LOVED helping me to mix, cook and decorate them ... and they loved eating them even more!  I only ate one last night and I've thrown the box out so not sure of points but given they were mini mini cupcakes I'd say about 2pt's each?  In any case I won't be having any more because the boys are enjoying them too much :) Caleb even had to take two extra one's to school today to share with his friends :)  I usually NEVER bake because I just don't want to have those sorts of treats in the house but I've been thinking I'll just have to bake better things.  LIke mini vege muffins etc....that way the boys still enjoy the process abut the outcome is much more waist friendly *wink*

Late yesterday afternoon, when it was quiet, I hit the Target Toy Sale while Simon took the boys to the beach for a half hour.  I layby'd for both the boys for Xmas (at a cost of $300) but at least it's done now and I can pay it off slowly over the rest of the year.

We are so looking forward to Xmas this year.  We are hosting the family gathering and both my sisters and their partners/kids are traveling here from Brisbane and Ballina to spend the festive week with us.  Yey!!!!  Can't wait!!

But oh how I'd like to have my weight down again by then.  I'm so over this upward pattern of weight gain - or no movement at all like last week!!! - I just want it to go down again :(  Soon.....soon Paulene.  If I keep working at it I know it has to sooner or later.  Stupid PCOS makes things harder and I'm sure stopping the pill suddenly wouldn't have helped either but.....like the movie goes....if you build it they will come....if I keep going it will happen!!!!!  It has to!! :)

TFTD: "Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go!!"

Cheers P

Thursday 23rd July, 2009...

Another work day rolls around again - ho-hum.  But due to some roster issues at work I actually have next Monday off for a change so after tonight I don't have to work for another week so who am I to complain :)  I actually was tempted to take tonight off too but at $350 a shift I really can't afford to so go I must.

Weighed in last night....nothing...NOTHING!  No change either way.  To be honest I'm kind of relieved that at least it was not a gain to start the challenge with.  I've gained most of my last weigh-in's so to stem that flow was nice.

I've also had a bit of change in the last week that I feared may impact on my weight.  I stopped the contraceptive pill last week.  That also meant the arrival of a rather full on TTOM which is sure to have played havoc with the scales also.  In any case all that should be settled by next week so fingers crossed.

Well I have a busy morning today, much to do before I go to work.  Simon and I also have an appointment together for an hour before work so I have to leave even earlier than usual.  And because Simon's car is out of action at present he'll have to drive my car home while I beg and borrow a lift home from someone at the end of my shift tonight.  It's such a pain in the you know what that my work is a 30min drive away.  It would be so much easier if it was in town :)

I'm trying out a new recipe this morning to cook and leave for the boys tea.  It's Hoisen Beef Fried Rice (really just a mince dish with rice and veggies added).  I'll work out the points and add it to this page tomorrow if it's not too bad.  I won't eat it for tea tonight myself anyway so I haven't worked out the points in advance.  Stay tuned for those details tomorrow.

I also picked up Talyn's day-care photo's today - SO gorgeous!!  My scanner seems to be having a hissy fit so if I get time today I'm going to photograph them and upload them that way so, again, I'll let you know tomorrow when they are done and added to our photo page for you to see them :)

Have a great Thursday everyone!!

TFTD: "Make the mistakes of yesterday your lessons for today!!"

Cheers P

Tuesday 21st July, 2009...

Ahh how I love Tuesdays!!! My favourite day of the working week :)

I work until midnight on Monday so I'm usually pretty tired but once Caleb is at school and Talyn is off to his day at day-care I'm footloose and fancy free!  I run around like a mad thing in the morning to get as much housework done as I can because once I drop them off the day is mine.  All mine!!  It's the only time I have to myself and I treasure every minute of it.

I often visit a friend, because let's face it, how much more relaxed is it to do that without chasing children down the whole time :)  We catch up with the kids too but Tuesday is our time to talk, chill and I get plenty of cuddles of her new little bubba boy Zach *Ahh I think my uterus just skipped a beat*  All good things come to those who wait oh womb of mine and your wait is almost over *wink*

This morning she texted me and suggested I bring some drinkies with me too today  - BLOODY AWESOME IDEA!!  tee-he

I've caught up on all the challenge stats before I go.  Almost everyone is up to date, only waiting on one more start weight...and now the first week's results are starting to roll in.  I have to say to Bex....WOW!!!!!!  2.7kg down in the first week - you are a bloody legend girl!!

Can't say the same for me.  My scales haven't moved at all!  Well they did move up after weekend drinks and now they've moved back down but not enough that I hope for a loss by tomorrow night.  You never know, I often surprise myself, but I'm kinda expecting to stay about the same so maybe a slight move either way.   Tomorrow will tell.

When I went and had my nails done with the lovely K last week she gave me a skirt - Wahooo how I love new clothes!!!  K has lost over 20kg of late and still has a bit to go so she passed the skirt onto me.  It's a denim one, stretchy and comfy.  It's actually almost lose on me when I got it but by hiking up the waistline a bit I'll get some extra wear out of it before I pass it on another sexy slimmer ;)  It's a size 18-20 I think from memory which is where I'm about at of late.

In the last few week's as my weight has crept up and up under massive amounts of stress I've felt my clothes get tighter and tighter.  Most of my 18's are just too tight now and I'll be damned if I can let that continue!!

For now I'm focusing on just getting back to 105kg and then I'll work on 90's again.  One step at a time.  Slow and steady wins this race :)

Ok....enough chatter.....off to enjoy my Tuesday!!!!

TFTD: "Fine thoughts are commendable but without deeds they are useless!!"

Cheers P

Monday 20th July, 2009...

Just a super quick entry today.

Am flat out...working this arvo until midnight...Talyn is sick and have had him to the Dr today.  He's had bad temperature since yesterday lunch time, a HUGE vomit yesterday arvo and non stop snotty nose and some coughing etc.  Am told it's just a common cold so plenty of rest, fluids and panadol as required.  Poor bubba :(

So anyway....between housework, sick boy and work tonight I only have time to pop in and update the latest challenge stats.  A few of you have still not given me your start weights/goal weights from last week???  Please can you email them to me ASAP!  Anyone not up to date by next week will be assumed to have quit.

I'll be back tomorrow (my day off) for a more lengthy chat :)

I had a FANTASTIC weekend by the way - hope you all did!

TFTD: "Success doesn't come to you, you go to it!!!"

Cheers P

Thursday 16th July, 2009...

Work night for me tonight...Awesome!

I've not stopped for one second since 6.30am this morning - doing morning chores, breakfasts, school, lunches, daycare, shopping, getting photos developed for Caleb's show and tell tomorrow, two loads of washing washed and hung on line, another basket of clean washing folded/ironed and put away, dishwasher emptied, everyone's lunches made for tomorrow, tea organised, etc etc etc.  And it's only 10.30am.  I've still got a mountain of stuff to do yet, not to mention the two overdue BAS's and end of year tax return I need to do which takes hours!  Aaaargh!!!!

Then I get to go to waste an hour of my life driving to work and deal with other people's shit/aggression/tears/stress for eight and a half hours etc etc. Joy - not!

Seriously - I am SO over it today!!!

So much so that .... since my Mumma taught me that if you have nothing nice to say you should say nothing at all .... is best I leave it here.

I'm mad as hell and some things are simply best left unsaid.

Perhaps if I had even one night of decent sleep for the first time in 5 months maybe I'd be less run down/irritable/exhausted.  Or if Simon and I had even one bloody night alone in peace.  Or if there was even one day of peace in general in our life of late!! Or if I could shake this damn depression that is smothering me slowly every day. Aaaaargh!!!!!!!!

Dream on Paulene! 

TFTD: "Just do it!!!"

Cheers P

Wednesday 15th July, 2009...

A quieter day for me than yesterday.  I went out to my friend's house last night for dinner (Chicken Quesadilles) and a movie (Devil's Rejects - NOT my choice!!!) and had a lovely evening :)

This morning we all headed to Caleb's school to watch some of his sports carnival.  Sadly he came last in his running race again this year.  We don't mind of course but he seemed really sad about it which just made our hearts hurt :(  He still has all the other events to do yet like long jump, shotput, hurdles etc so I'm hoping he does well enough in one of them to feel good about his efforts??  We lavished him in encouragement all the same :)

Talyn and I have been to the library this morning for him to get his weekly stash of books and now he's had lunch and waiting for me to read him a few of them before his afternoon nap.

I'm trying a new recipe tonight. 

Creamy Bacon and Mushroom Chicken  (serves 4)

• Spray Olive oil
  

• 1 onion, thinly sliced
  

• 4 rashes WW bacon/extra lean bacon
  

• 200g button mushrooms
  

• 4 chicken breasts
  

• 185ml can Carnation Light & Creamy evaporated milk
  

• Cornflour and water to thicken
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  

1.  Spray non stick pan with oil.  Add onion, bacon and mushrooms.  Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is soft.  Remove from pan

2.  Spray non stick pan again.  Add chicken.  Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until browned.  Return onion mixture to pan

3.  Add evaporated milk.  Bring to boil.  Simmer, uncovered, turning chicken half way through, for about 10min's or until chicken is cooked through

4.  Remove chicken from pan.  Cover to keep warm.  Stir in blended cornflour and water. Stir over heat until sauce boils and thickens.  Season to taste.

5. Serve with steamed seasonal veggies.  I'm doing mine with fresh corn on the cob, steamed carrots and zucchini and some pumpkin/potato mash :)

Without the veggies, the chicken dish alone is 4 points

Hope it's as yummy as it sounds/looks :)

The Spring Challenge '09 started this week and the start weights and challenge goals are flowing in.  For anyone still interested - it's not too late to join.  Just click on the link to the challenge page and follow the instructions there :)

TFTD: "Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice!!!"

Cheers P

Tuesday 14th July, 2009...

Ahhhh sweet serenity!!!!!!! :) :)

School started back for Caleb today and Tuesday is day-care day for Talyn so I'm having a LOVELY day of peace and chill time.  I spent the morning at a friends house and this afternoon Simon and I are taking the boys out for them to have dinner and a play at Hungry Jack's then I'm going to another friends house for dinner and a DVD.  What a day!

Last night I worked at 10.5hr shift, + 1hr travel time....now that's 12hours of my life I aint never getting back *wink*  Simon got up when I got home at 11.30pm and we hung out for an hour or two before finally getting to bed about 1am or after.  Then the boys had us up early at 6.30am or so this morning.  Yawn!!!

However...enough about my day....let's talk Challenge!!

The Spring Challenge '09 started this week and the start weights and challenge goals are flowing in.  For anyone still interested - it's not too late to join.  Just click on the link to the challenge page and follow the instructions there :)

I faced my own start weight weigh-in today.  It had been 3 wk's again since the last one and it brought a gain of 1.4kg.  Bloomin' Hell!!!! 

But no point whining about that now :) Forward March!!!!!

TFTD: "Don't be foolish, please be wise, get up, get going and exercise!!!"

Cheers P

Sunday 12th July, 2009...

Tomorrow is the start of the Spring Challenge '09...Wahooooo :)  We have 11 participants already and there is usually a few last minute additions so that's awesome. The more the merrier :)

I'm nervous for my own 'start weight' weigh-in ... yet ANOTHER gain coming my way.  But I'm very pumped, as always, about a new challenge and the extra motivation that gives me so Bring It On I say!!

I've started a great book today.  101 Things to do Before You Diet - by Mimi Spencer

Great book!!  I'm only a few chapters in but it talks all about the traps of 'diets' and how ultimately they ALL fail.  Instead it focuses not only on things you can do to help but also how to help heal your self esteem along the way.  Highly recommended so far!  Anyone interested to know more can read >>> here

Enjoy your Sunday everyone!!  Simon and Caleb are having a boys outing at the Cinema to watch Transformers 2 at the moment and Talyn is sleeping so I'm off to read more of my book :)

I'm working 12.30 - 9.00pm tomorrow night so if I don't get to update in the morning before I go I'll be back here on Tuesday.  Talk more then :)

TFTD: "What you eat in private shows in public!"

Cheers P

Thursday 9th July, 2009...

Well, for those of you who may of missed it yesterday.....we've got a new challenge coming up next week!

The Spring Challenge '09 page has all the details of when and how to join.  Come on!!!  What are you waiting for?? :)

Work day for me again today - ho-hum.  I really don't like my job, but then who does?? It's just a good thing that they pay me a sinful amount of money per shift as money is really really tight right now so that get's me there each day ;)

Caleb is still enjoying his holidays.  He and I went to the cinema on Tuesday while Talyn was at daycare to watch Ice Age 3.  It was great :)  I used to go nearly every two weeks with Caleb before Talyn came along so I guess it's time I start braving Talyn and getting him cinema-proof too.  I've always made sure the first many trips weren't with friends etc who may encourage them to run around or muck up during the movie and as a result Caleb has always been a pleasure to take.  Talyn on the other hand...???  *snicker*

Ahhh my feral neighbours are starting up again.  Swearing, fighting, screaming.  Ugh!  I HATE them!!!

I'm SOOOO looking forward to a new challenge starting next week.  I so need something to kick me out of this slump, halt the backward slide, and get my ass shrinking once more *wink*  Like I REALLY need it!!!  Something's gotta stop me and get me focused again.  Here's hoping a challenge is it??

TFTD: "What you eat in private shows in public!"

Cheers P

Wednesday 8th July, 2009...

Ok girls.....I've got the new challenge page up and ready to go.  Start weight week is next week so whatever day of that week is your weigh-in day will be your start.  Then a week after that you send me your week one result.  That easy :)

Check out the new challenge page >>>>>  here.

And don't forget to add a challenge goal for yourself also when you send me your start weight :)

Good luck!!!!

I'm having a lovely relaxing day at home with my boys today.  Getting heaps done like vacuuming, cleaning toilets and bathrooms, washing etc etc.  It's nice not having anywhere to rush to.  I've already caught up with quite a few friends this week and I have more social invites on the horizon for this weekend so it's a great week :)

Simon and the boys are happy and healthy and I feel a real strange sense of peace today all of a sudden.  Contentedness.  Happiness.  Peace from the many drama's of late.

Life is good!!!! 

Now I'm hoping this challenge will help my weight loss life get back on track now too :)

TFTD: "You never know what lies ahead if you keep on looking back!!"

Cheers P

Thursday 2nd July, 2009...

Ahhh the new beginning of a new page in my journal :)  Always nice.]

Can't talk long as I'm headed to a nearby town to hit the shops with Caleb.  I'm hoping I may find something nice and new to wear out to my b'day party tomorrow night...but I do have a back-up outfit organised in case I don't find anything - as I so often don't.

I'm going to have to start getting around naked if I don't do something about this slide I'm on as so many of my clothes are becoming tight and uncomfortable.  Aaargh!!  Why can't I just focus????

I think a new challenge is what I need.  After this weekend the prolonged birthday celebrations are behind me.  A certain element to our life who has caused no end of pain and stress of late is...apparently....leaving town in two weeks so I'm hoping that too will help life settle back down to some semblance of normal??

So what do you say?

Who's interested in another challenge? 

For those who may not be familiar with them....check out my What's On page to find the links to all our previous challenges and then you can see for yourself what we can all achieve on a challenge!

I'm thinking at this stage that the 'Start Weight' week will be from Monday 13th July.  Whatever day of that week that you weigh-in on is your start day.  Then one week later you email me your first weeks results for me to post to the challenge page and so it continues from there.

It is a lot of work for me but I do enjoy it and the extra focus it gives me.  But if enough people aren't interested it's not really worth it.  So.....if you are keen to join or think you may be.....drop me an email at slimming4health@dodo.com.au and let me know.  We can do this!!! :)

TFTD: "A quitter never wins and a winner never quits!!"

Cheers P