How Cool is That?!

I just had to share a little conversation. Well, a Tweet or two...

That's me sharing my excitement with Bob and Jillian. Or into the great void that is the Internet.

But what? What's that???

Aww, Bob. I heart you.

So Close...

Yet not to the goal. I just had to share that this week I weighed in 2 pounds less than last week. This puts me 4.6 away from my initial goal but sitting at a 19 pound loss. How can I be upset with that?
We're headed on vacation soon and I was going to not work out during that time (lots of walking anyway) but I think I may bring the yoga video anyway.

Happy Monday everyone!

A Day at the Dog Park

Finally having some nice weather on a weekend combined with free time I decided it was high time I took the pooch back to the dog park. It has been since late last summer but oh boy, if I could speak dog I'm sure she'd tell me it's her favorite place ever.

When we exit from the highway on our way there she starts to whine. She's rather smart. She also knows when you're taking her to the groomer or the vet. In those cases, she tucks her tail and lays low.

But not today, there was to be no tail tucking. Amazingly, when she's at the dog park, she's a super well-behaved dog. She'll run off and then come back and check in with me. If I call her name she comes running.

These things don't always happen at home. But at least in a public place like this, I'm glad.

Codie found a little friend today. And I really mean little. It was so stinkin' cute I had to snap a quick video. Enjoy!

Picture Page Picture Page

Ever watch that show? I believe Bill Cosby was the host...that magic pen...
Anyway, on to the results!

As of now I'm down 17 pounds. I seriously think it all came off from the top so the bottom is next. Right?

I'm always apprehensive of the pictures...good thing I took them on the first day otherwise I may not believe the changes.

Okay, enough talking already. Here ya go. The long-awaited pictures!

Around the World in 80 Days

Or at least around my front room on my mat, all over the floor, and up in the air a bit working out for 80 days. Yes, I'm at day 80. Un-be-liev-able.
And really, I shouldn't post this just yet as I haven't worked out yet but I'm planning to. I stayed home from work today because of the stomach crud. I'll spare you details but I'd have spent more time running to and being in the bathroom than actually teaching today. Blech.

In the midst of this all-me lying on the couch, running to the toilet, the poor dog ripped off part of her nail on her front paw. So, guess who got to take her to the vet today?! That even became a fiasco. They glued it off so it wouldn't get infected and she's on a pain killer and an antibiotic but I think they're making her feel not well. She's not acting like her normal self. )o:

At some point during the day today I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and almost didn't believe it was really me. This is paying off. I just have to keep at it. I know I said I'd post pictures and I haven't yet...but I will!

Something's Just Not Right

Ever get that feeling? You can't put your finger on it exactly but you feel "off". Yesterday I started out really tired. Like, burning eye tired. Then in the afternoon I started feeling 'just not right'. My muscles/joints felt sore or achy but I wasn't sure if that was just from yoga so I pushed through my evening workout--despite not getting home until 7:30ish. And that's where I really noticed the sore/achy feeling. But I didn't really feel sick. Just not right.

Then all last night I kept thinking, "This must be the flu, dangit." So I slept like crud and when it came time to get up I could barely muster the energy.

The entire day was almost a bust as I spent it mostly doubled over with stomach pains (ebbing and flowing) and trying to keep my eyes open. Why didn't I just go home? Because it would have been way more work than it's worth. Teachers can't just go home. Unfortunately.

This afternoon I figured I'd have to throw in the towel. There would be no workout today. I even consulted a coworker--someone I look up to. She's kind of like my work mom. And I was expecting her to say, "Yes, you need to rest. Take it easy one day." And instead she said, "Noooo, you can't stop now!"

Um, crud.

I had an after school coffee-planning meeting with a friend that I was not going to cancel so I went and tried to be chipper and feeling good. And really, around 4 I did start to feel better, not good, but better.

So, when I got home this evening I had to face the demon. Meet Jillian for a shredding rendezvous or take a nap?

Heck, I've come this far...25 minutes isn't going to do me in. So Shred I did.

Is it bedtime now?

No Takers

Surprisingly, no one felt like taking some pounds from me. Hmph. And well, the scale read at about what I would have guessed. I knew after starting a new program I may not lose weight but instead gain that muscle tone and I surmise that's what happened today. However, I am happy to report that I did lose 1 pound. So, I'm only 6.4 away from that goal now. If I keep all of this up, maybe next Monday will bring me more of a loss.

During my shopping extravaganza this weekend I did manage to purchase some new shirts. There's nothing like new clothing (even new-to-you) that helps with your self-confidence. I'm sporting a new shirt/blouse from Banana Republic that's navy. Before my penny-pinching naysayers get their panties in a tizzy you must know what a deal I got! Not only were all the clothes I bought on sale but I also got an extra 30% off thanks to a coupon I snagged from Coupon Mommie on Friday afternoon. Awesome! So, each shirt I bought averaged around $15.
But the bum deal is the pants! Now, even right from the dryer they're too loose.

Why am I complaining? Because I'm in between sizes and nothing is fitting! I hate looking frumpy! So c'mon next size down-get here already!

I will take some pictures soon, I promise, and post them for a results showing. I'm always nervous that the pictures will look like they did the first day. Yikes! Hopefully never again!

Have a great week everyone.

Is It Enough?

Since last Monday I have done the Shred (alternating Levels 1 & 3) and The Biggest Loser Weight Loss Yoga. Every day. I've been watching what I eat like normal. Well, until this weekend...or more specifically today--I think I may have eaten too much at lunch. So I made some adjustments today/tonight.

First, I purchased 1/2% milk for myself instead of the normal 2%. That's saving me fat and calories every serving. For dinner I enjoyed some Honey Nut Cheerios and that milk instead of the pot roast my dad and hubby ate.

As with most weekends, I did the Last Chance Workout today. After I finished that I took it outside. Granted, I didn't do anything amazing but I did something new. I jogged (or, as I like to call my version of jogging--yogging) around our block once. Yes, only once...I'm not sure how big our block is--a city block. Does that make sense?

When I came back in I took off my shoes and socks and headed back to the front room for yoga. Literally at 8 minutes in I almost gave up. I was < > this close. But I finished and I'm so glad I did. There are some parts that are really a challenge for me, like all the plank things...holding plank (hello shake), lowering halfway down (shake shake), lowering all the way down (shaaaaake). But it's a good thing. I'm looking forward to getting more comfortable with level one and then progressing to level 2.

I have about 2 weeks before spring break. I really (REALLY) want to be under 200 by vacation but I'm not sure if it will happen. Tomorrow I get on the scale to see how this past week went. I know I worked harder but I don't know if I burned enough. We shall see.

Oh, I'm having a massive attack of baby itch. It's not good. We're conception-ally challenged (going on about 2 years) and we both recently decided we would not try for a little while. A combination of factors--a lot to do with me losing weight--but darn, why all the urge now?!

So, wish me luck tomorrow morning. I have 7.4 pounds to lose to get to that first goal. Anyone care to take a few pounds from me? (o:

Shopping Blues

This weekend I was stoked to go shopping with my mom for smaller clothes. Yes, I know I have a lot to lose still but my clothes had become a joke. One of those things about weight loss that get me down is how unevenly the changes take place. Apparently I'm a top-down loser. The majority of the weight has shred itself from my upper body. So when I tried on pants this weekend I became quickly frustrated and sad. The same freakin' sized pants that I was wearing before.

What doesn't make sense is how big my other clothes have gotten. I won't even go into the completely unsuccessful bra shopping experience. Who knew you could be someone that didn't fit into ANY bras?!

I came close to tears a few times but I have to look at the bigger picture. I have plenty of time to take off more weight and to shop again. Maybe next time I'll find things that fit. I just have to keep working. Oh, and my new yoga mat should help out. My old one was starting to disintegrate. Yuck.

Happy weekend!

Shake Shake Shake Senora

Yes, I love you Bob. I still love you Jillian and your level 3 Shred. But crud, it's day two of my new yoga routine and I was shaking unbelievably. This is to be expected, of course. I have to get my mind right and remember that this too shall pass.

I am really liking doing the yoga still, um on day two. Ha. I can't wait until I am able to do all the moves by really extending myself. I can't wait for the flexibility. I'm even more excited for the toned muscles-that's the one that really got me last time.

I'm wondering in my head though...do we think I'll gain this week? I'm being very good calorie wise but since I'm awakening new muscles (or neglected muscles anyway) they could add some poundage. I don't want to gain but if it means I will be leaner in the long run and stronger then I'll take it.

Tomorrow I won't be teaching. Instead I have a full day in-service which means I'll be sitting all day. Crud. And then there will either be lunch brought in or we'll all go out. Double crud. I can make good choices and I will follow through.

On the news this morning they showed a line outside of a local bar around 6:30. Are you kidding me? Even the Irish don't get up to drink that early!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Pictureless Posts

I've been neglecting my camera lately. I apologize. If I were to take a picture for this post it would be of my new hand weights. I finally located some 8 lb weights in a nice shade of green. And while I was about to pass out, oh I mean working out yesterday I realized--the weights I'm now lifting are what I've lost. I know those 16 pounds are from all over my body (um, or were my boobs) but lifting those weights in my hands is incredible. I can't believe how heavy they feel.

I have 17 days until spring break and 7.4 pounds to lose. I'm not so sure I can make this happen. If it doesn't, no big deal. I'm still working hard and it will come off soon enough. But in an effort to make this closer to reality I picked up another video. I was in search of Jillian Michael's new yoga dvd but after 5 stores of no luck I gave up today and picked up Bob's instead. While I was deciding on this purchase I realized it's probably a good move for me to take a break from Jillian anyway.

So I Shredded this afternoon (yes it was around 6 but it was super light out so that's afternoon!) and then did yoga. It literally felt like I was home. As hokey as that sounds yoga is me. When I was into it a long while ago--it pains me to think of how long ago it's been--it was the most fit I had ever been in my life. And it literally fit the bicycle analogy. I got on that mat and yoga-ed like I used to. And it felt good. So thanks Bob!

My plan now includes me doing two videos a day and subtracting a few more calories here and there. As lame as it sounds I've eaten Special K for dinner two nights in a row. But I LOVE cereal. Love it. So it really doesn't feel like I'm sacrificing.

Okay, it's time for bed. Have a wonderful St. Patty's Day everyone!

Closer To...

Lots of things. One being my first goal weight. Two being able to wear clothes purchased from the average-sized person store. Three being more comfortable with myself. I could go on but I'll spare you.

This morning I got on the scale for a surprise -2 1/2 pounds. Bringing it to a total of -16.2 pounds. Wow. That's great. But I have so much more to go.

It's Monday and it's pitch black outside right now. But I'm so going to love the light out tonight!

Sixty Seven Days and Counting

Even with two nights of conferences I was still able to fit my workout in. I even made it home in time today to workout and go out for dinner with my hubs and my dad.

I saw a glimpse of my butt in a video I took in my classroom. It wasn't pretty. And darn, is that ever disheartening. I know I'm working hard and I know I have a lot still to do but c'mon it sure would be nice if I was noticing more physical differences.

I'm at 13 1/2 pounds right now. 10 more pounds until my first goal. I'm not sure how long it's going to take to get there. I was hoping it would happen before Spring Break, but I'm not so sure that's going to happen.

This week was quite the week. PD, conferences, conferences, and a million other things. I'm glad Friday is just a sunrise away. I'm so looking forward to relaxing with my family tomorrow.

Subtracting

Yes, I can do all four operations in math. I'm just better at one or two of them. And the one I'm getting better at is subtracting pounds from my body.

This week brought me another 2 1/2 pound loss. Yay! I'm getting oh so much closer to my first goal.

After work tonight (and then after some more work) I'm stopping by a sporting goods store for 8 lb weights, hopefully Jillian Michael's Yoga video (I've been to two places, both out), and maybe even a new sports bra.

Happy Monday everyone!

Layout

Okay, so I took a really long time tonight trying to get a new background. And while I like this background it wasn't my original pick. Why oh why couldn't I get the other one to work? Poo.

Anyway, just wanted to say I'm on day 61 of working out. Tomorrow I'm hoping to pick up some eight pound weights and the new Jillian Michael's yoga video. I need to start doing more minutes and giving myself some options.

I hope everyone is having a great weekend. The sun was shining the entire day today. This week's forecast is looking good too.

Adding

30+5+24=59

Yes, that's right ladies and gentlemen. Not only can I add but I can also work out for two months straight! Well, tomorrow anyway. I'm still in shock.
Speaking of which, I totally did a rockstar job in level three today. It's not perfect but it's more ode de Natalie and hard core.

This is one of those weeks. Meeting, meeting, plan a PD for teachers, present said PD, report cards, conferences, master's class, meeting...All while remember to eat, drink, workout, and sleep. Oh, and not forget about my hubby and the pup. Please help me stay sane.

What would I do without Pandora on night's like this?

I can do this.

I can do this?

The Shred Part Two-Day 19, 20, 21, 22, 23

Whoa slacker. But not in the workout department. I still am staying strong and working out every day.

Today I felt a cold or something coming on. Sore throat...tired eyes...and generally tired all over. I got home and definitely didn't feel like working out. The hubs mentioned dinner...and I knew what I had to do. So, I met Jillian for Level 3, finally.

I even did better tonight than I think I've ever done on Level 3. So, despite not wanting to get moving it worked out really well.

This Monday was disappointing as I gained a pound and a half )o: However, I sat down almost all Saturday long and the same thing on Sunday with the baby shower I went to. Then there was cake. Didn't I write a post about not eating out of politeness? Oh, yeah...I totally did. And I totally did eat a piece of cake this weekend. I can only imagine how many calories were packed into that cake. Sigh. Moving on.

I have another meeting after work tomorrow (just like today) which means I won't get home until later. And now conferences are on the horizon. Literally next week. Guess what I'll be doing this weekend? Writing report cards. Oh another fun weekend.

There's no way I'm going to recount all the meals I've missed posting but here's today's:
Green Tea with mixed berry
Fat free Greek yogurt with honey and Honey Bunches of Oats

Banana

Grilled chicken sandwich-baby greens and mustard
Whipped orange cream yogurt
Pineapples and mandarin oranges

Banana

Leftover chili turned into chili mac-regular and whole wheat spaghetti noodles
Two bites of a homemade cupcake. (o: