tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22100152062344041152024-02-07T11:00:36.252-08:00E Doesn't BlogEunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-26839210826462908052014-01-29T22:07:00.002-08:002014-01-29T22:17:22.573-08:00E Takes on The Dr. Oz 2 Week Weight Loss ChallengeDesperate times call for desperate measures and I was desperate to jump-start my weight loss. I had been stuck, injured, and totally out of sorts and uncomfortable for almost a year. Actually, when I had to go gluten-free and dairy-free, I was thrown off kilter and I let everything get in the way of maintaining a weight loss that I had worked hard to achieve. That is why I decided to give Dr. Oz 2 Week Weight Loss Challenge a try.<br />
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Normally, I do not do any type of cleanse, detox, drastic diet. When I was considerably younger, I am positive that I aided in the ruin of my metabolism by dropping my calories under 900 per day and doing all types of crazy fad diets to lose weight. I eventually joined Weight Watchers and achieved my goal weight and Lifetime membership. I kept the weight off for several years until I let many factors get in the way and slipped back into that uncomfortable overweight hell.<br />
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When I saw the restrictions on this plan, I thought, "Oh nooooo!" "I can't do without my coffee." However, I jumped in and here are my observations:<br />
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The first thing that you must do is watch the <a href="http://www.doctoroz.com/episode/dr-ozs-two-week-rapid-weight-loss-diet" target="_blank">videos </a>of the show and download the food <a href="http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/dr-ozs-rapid-weight-loss-plan-one-sheet" target="_blank">list</a> and smoothie recipe. Go over it, look at it. Think of dishes that you can prepare and plan, plan, plan. If you do not meal plan, you will fail. It's too easy to fall back into the choices that got us here.<br />
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Second, make your shopping list and remember that you might need to divide up that initial trip, especially if your family is not eating the same things. In retrospect, I would have split up the rice protein and probiotic and separated some of the items. Things such as frozen fruit and veggies and the vegetable broth, if you choose to start with pre-made broth, can be bought well ahead of your start day.<br />
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Next, follow the plan. Don't try to get fancy and guess if something is okay. Most often, if you think it's not okay, it isn't. Fortunately, there is a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/560047687421448/" target="_blank">Facebook group</a> where you can ask questions, check out food ideas, etc. This is not an official group, but it has been a godsend. Also, check out June's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/ChiquiLaPaz" target="_blank">YouTube</a> videos. (You have to try the hummus!) Everyone is nice and encouraging. It's a great group!<br />
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Last, don't keep hopping on the scale. It will only stress you out. If you can't wait until the 2 weeks are complete, only weigh at the end of the first week, but don't become frustrated. Hang in there, drink your water and stick with the plan.<br />
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Here were some of my thoughts during the toughest time--those first three to four days:<br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>DAY 1</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">PROS</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Eliminating sugar and sugar substitutes. I was both knowingly and unknowingly consuming a huge amount of sugar.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Focus on vegetables</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">For me, finding an alternative protein powder. The rice protein powder has been the only protein powder that I can use with stomach upset.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Addition of probiotic</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I am already gluten and dairy free</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I am back to scrutinizing labels. I bought 2 items that I can't eat--a broth that isn't wheat and dairy free( (I was trying to save a buck.) and my plain coconut milk yogurt has ORGANIC DRIED CANE SYRUP, yup sugar--great.</span><br />
The detox bath!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">CONS</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">No resource for questions</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Too personalized for some--not enough structure</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Cannot maintain extreme low carb long term</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Missing some of the most nutritious vegetables--carrots, sweet potatoes</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">So restrictive there is no exercise</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">For me, the am smoothie doesn't cut it, but once I ate 1 oz almonds, I was ok.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>Breakfast</i>--</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">The smoothie. I used a NutriBullet and blended everything then added ice and blended again. I put it in a shaker bottle and threw it in the freezer until I was ready to go to work. Not perfect, but not awful. If you have trouble with textures, caution on this one. Some decrease the amount of ground flax seed.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I was hungry within 2 hours of the smoothie so I ate my portion of almonds and I was good until lunch.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>Lunch</i>--</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">3oz chicken breast, 1/4 cup brown rice, 1 cup broccoli roasted then I felt the need to drink part of the broth (store-bought with kale and garlic added)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I had planned to use my coconut milk plain yogurt for a snack until I realized that plain is not unsweetened--fail!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">My next snack option was hummus that I had stashed for an extra snack. I looked at the label and it was a no-go due to the agave. By now, I am frustrated and also realizing how much sugar I was eating by way of default. We're not even talking about intentional.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b>DAY 2 & 3</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>Breakfast</i> --smoothie with almonds for my morning snack</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>Lunch</i>--I had an errand to run, so I ate my bean salad before leaving and a couple of hours later, I had my official lunch--chicken, rice, Brussels sprouts</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>Snack</i>-- broth</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>Dinner</i>--I was able to delay dinner--tilapia, rice and more bean salad. I normally have to eat as soon as I get home, but I could delay it. The only problem was my hunger after 8 because I ate dinner later. At least, I was able to avoid eating.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Head fog, no headache, but no coffee insanity. Some periods where I felt as if my blood sugar was dropping, so I would eat. I found that the nuts are invaluable for this.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">The afternoon and evening drag time is very evident. I am waiting on that energy!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>DAY 4</b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1BlHnm8DUDyzdrH3H4ZnIeKa1GN9xO1OhOUQbqXjtO8XHBxk_QLUjF5u-nxvqviLwCsuiIadU7u6t5goOYp90KAJOFHFUCgZ-PTF-mucvltkw8pR34XUGEgwoBPW_My65UloT88LfzE8/s1600/IMG_2837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1BlHnm8DUDyzdrH3H4ZnIeKa1GN9xO1OhOUQbqXjtO8XHBxk_QLUjF5u-nxvqviLwCsuiIadU7u6t5goOYp90KAJOFHFUCgZ-PTF-mucvltkw8pR34XUGEgwoBPW_My65UloT88LfzE8/s1600/IMG_2837.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Starving by smoothie breakfast time</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Nausea last night--maybe vitamin</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">GI issues occurring less frequently</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Next week--more variety-- use turkey burgers/ground turkey in addition to chicken</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">The support group in invaluable!! More ideas, run foods by them to see if they fit the criteria, see how everyone is feeling and what they are doing.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Periods of lightheadedness.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I wished for an official page, forum, or someplace you could get official answers. We did well on our own page, but if you are nervous or needy and need the official word on things, just know that there just isn't that support from the man himself. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">It's very low carb, and that can't be maintained forever which brings up my next complaint. Aftercare or lack thereof. On the videos Dr. Oz just says that when we're done he will let us have unlimited protein and nuts and extra berries for something sweet. That's it. No maintenance plan, but that. I just don't find that realistic; so, here's my plan.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPAAW2FhAlt5aqKebPSwdi9_BoaLvEp4QArQsh2vp8jTjQijBFbszIoz5pIF1ipqwzfklhhFSdtsUDLK9aXS_MBBBkq408OL8f4jDaolGQZMeNl39dv8cZdpKPTKDz3ZSomRmPjEM0Xj4/s1600/IMG_2820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPAAW2FhAlt5aqKebPSwdi9_BoaLvEp4QArQsh2vp8jTjQijBFbszIoz5pIF1ipqwzfklhhFSdtsUDLK9aXS_MBBBkq408OL8f4jDaolGQZMeNl39dv8cZdpKPTKDz3ZSomRmPjEM0Xj4/s1600/IMG_2820.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b>Things I'm doing differently that I'll keep:</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Less sugar--read the labels--it's in everything</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Less red meat</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Less caffeine more Organic green tea--The caffeine withdrawal was worth it and honestly, it wasn't that bad</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">More veggies</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Roasting my own almonds, walnuts, cashews</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Roasted chickpeas (yes, roasted, crunchy goodness)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Breakfast smoothie.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Watch the sodium.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm actually going to keep the broth idea. Since there is a great veggie list, I can vary my add-ins for a filling snack.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><b>Things that I will change:</b></span></div>
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<b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;" /></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">More fruit--still less than before</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">More carb--still less than before</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">An occasional egg/egg white</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Increase lean protein servings</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I forgot one thing. After all of the above, I lost 8.2 pounds!! That is on the low end for those doing the challenge, but I'll take it. Thanks Dr. Oz!</span></span></div>
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Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-43419485157137591522013-12-31T19:41:00.001-08:002013-12-31T19:41:34.721-08:00Lesson learned 2013Are you a procrastinator? I should have written this year-end post before 9 pm New Year's Eve, but there are so many things running through my head that I can't focus enough to get it done. <div><br></div><div>This has been an insane year for me. I started off focused, but I let one event throw me off focus and it was downhill after that both emotionally and physically. I let anger, disappointment, and an injury keep me from my goals. I've learned that it just can't continue. Going forward, if I can distance myself from a negative situation, I won't hesitate to do so. I have to do that for me. </div><div><br></div><div>This year has not been all negative. I will focus on those blessings and cultivate my new relationships and opportunities. I'm going to be busy, but I am also making time to do some things that I've wanted to do for a long time, so get ready for me to blog about my new adventures. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBZ3O1fwOwFIzO4428SeW1-1_CRFVndcmOt3PALWNhsDeDwfOuzpqhRsg8522X8bBvJFbsx-qUvHVJ0Scui5nyReeSgFqUG__bkgavKzYsEsCW4F8g7H0SuIcKcUCatWxml75HPP1vxw/s640/blogger-image-868230373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBZ3O1fwOwFIzO4428SeW1-1_CRFVndcmOt3PALWNhsDeDwfOuzpqhRsg8522X8bBvJFbsx-qUvHVJ0Scui5nyReeSgFqUG__bkgavKzYsEsCW4F8g7H0SuIcKcUCatWxml75HPP1vxw/s640/blogger-image-868230373.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-41854470067979768372013-06-15T06:49:00.005-07:002013-06-15T06:50:55.818-07:00The Stress Plan<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6QvO2bDNtWN1-1ilE8rt7GnD6vW0YvDynI6RmH1lkVIMXAjo3I9b3IbxOKWvGRGDacxP2l7xlnMls24geivdxaT-Knn57zQheUJz4O3p6zzhGI7wpkwLvFV2GOJye6ynFMZiOgh13wA/" width="476" /><br />
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I have made progress, BUT....</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I am struggling. Once again, but this time I am not giving up. Here are the issues</span></span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I am stressed. </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I am eating more. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I am not getting enough sleep.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Yes, they are all related, but I refuse to give in----AGAIN!!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Here's the plan</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br />Get in the game:</span></span><br />
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<ul>
<li>Continue to journal my food and exercise</li>
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<ul>
<li>Continue going to the gym and commit to those home exercise sessions</li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Find a way to positively deal with the stress. Blog more, but some days I can't write </span></span><span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">eloquently enough to put my words on a public forum.</span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li>Give up and go to bed. When you don't sleep it affects your hunger hormones <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghrelin" target="_blank">(ghrelin)</a> and the viciou cycle begins </li>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This a journey, a process. I have to learn and not repeat the same mistakes. Wish me luck!</span></span></div>
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Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-25296963664783622842013-05-11T07:38:00.001-07:002013-05-11T07:45:01.264-07:00Happy BirthdayI had planned to do one of those fancy blog posts about birthdays, but my FB/Twitter post sums it up.<br />
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Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-30980927866363339092013-04-20T08:37:00.000-07:002013-04-20T12:56:11.795-07:00It's My Job<br />
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This morning I had a chance to reflect on several people who made a difference in my life. Family, friends, preachers, teachers who sometimes said or did the smallest things, made a difference and I carry those things forever. Maybe it was a "don't do that" or a "this is what you should do", or even "that look" across the room. At times it was a gift or loaning something to me until my parents could afford the item I needed. I had the best "hand-me-downs" a girl (and even an adult) could ask for. At other times, it was a chance or a second start. God knows I've needed second, third, and I'll just stop counting chances. </div>
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I only hope that I can do the same. It's the one way that I can attempt to adequately say, "Thank You". It's not always easy. Actually, the gift giving and the little acts of kindness are fun and easy. Whatever you have is a gift anyway. </div>
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The advice, the "don't do that" part is more difficult. I'm not perfect, that's how I learned this. The older I get, the less I hold back. I'm sure it causes resentment, but I would be remiss if I didn't share what I've learned through my life experiences as those before me have done. If only I had listened....</div>
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Before my late Mother passed away, we were having a big laugh about her knowing everything and generally being in my business when I was growing up. Her reply was, "That's my job". So when I re-gift whether its a treat, a hug, a word of wisdom, or I'm just "telling you like it is" remember, "That's my job". </div>
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How many people helped mold you? Are you sharing your gifts and your life lessons or are you being complacent? Are you doing your job? Make a difference, be an influence. </div>
Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-7269106706967027552013-04-12T10:20:00.005-07:002013-04-12T10:22:51.763-07:00That pile on the floor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It seems insignificant doesn't it? A pile of jeans on the floor. Waiting for the the washer. To someone losing weight, it's an NSV (non-scale victory). When you've gained weight, a pile of jeans is not usually in your dirty laundry. They are avoided because you can't fit into your old ones and you refuse to buy that larger size. You resort to sweat pants, yoga pants, anything with a stretchy waistband. <br />
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So here's the reason that I now have a pile of jeans on the floor. (Please excuse the messy room. This is my candid shot on the way to the gym.) Progress. Little by little, I'll get there. I have lost 14.7 pounds since January. Since I started using My Fitness Pal, my weight loss is at 27 pounds. (We won't mention the last time that I lost 40 pounds.) No, I haven't lost fifty pounds,or even twenty yet, but a quick glance in the mirror gives me more inspiration and it should give you inspiration too. Don't get caught up in that competitive trap of saying, "I've <i><b>only</b></i> lost_______". Only? Really? Proudly state how much weight you've lost and say, "Thank You" to that compliment. <br />
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We deserve those moments and we worked hard to achieve them, so be proud of the 1 pound weight loss, the jeans that fit so own them, the stairs that you can walk without getting winded and use them as motivation. Do it for you.<br />
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<br />Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-68425675974504049782013-03-28T19:57:00.001-07:002013-03-28T20:01:00.485-07:00Easter Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here we are at Easter. Do you remember those days?<br />
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From Christ in Poetry by Thomas Curtis Clark and Hazel Davis Clark<br />
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I had to memorize a speech to be recited on Easter Sunday. In front of everyone. In my itchy, frilly, cute dress. Yes, there were meltdowns, but it made for some nice memories and a commitment to my spiritual future.<br />
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Now I have a question for you. Where's the candy? Remove it from the house, your desk, your purse. It's trouble for chocoholics. We just can't stop. Even when we know it will spike our blood sugars, make us hyper, make us irritable, cause tummy upset, we still can't stop. And no, don't hit the after-Easter markdown bins. Who needs a stockpile of chocolate in the house, even if it's in the freezer?<br />
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Instead, let's enjoy the holiday. After all, Easter is truly about love, more than any other day. Save those calories for a great meal with your family. It will give you more fulfillment than chocolate ever could.Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-59065808221375611592013-03-13T19:52:00.000-07:002013-03-13T19:56:19.258-07:00Back in the SwingIt has been too long since I posted. This is a great outlet, so I need to take advantage of it. Sometimes we let life get in the way of everything, especially doing things for ourselves. We are worthy; we deserve to be healthy. I also struggled with some dietary changes that were a major problem for me. I hadn't been writing, watching my diet, or working out. That was not good and I knew better. At the end of last year, I knew that I had to make a change and not let life get in the way again, so I started my journey again. I've lost almost ten pounds since the re-start. Here's the plan:<br />
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I am using <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">My Fitness Pal</a> extensively. It is the best way for me to record my intake and exercise. This is a must for weight loss. If you remain in denial about what you're putting in your body, you won't be successful. My Fitness Pal syncs across my devices, so no matter what I use to journal, it's all there. Also, make your journal visible to your friends. That is one more step in the accountability ladder.<br />
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My Fitness Pal also provides that community support. Support is also an important tool in successful weight loss and one of the reasons the Weight Watchers program is so successful. I tried to recruit some of my friends and family, but they weren't ready to commit to it. The wonderful thing about MFP is there is always someone else who needs support, encouragement, accountability. I was fortunate enough to already have several committed friends on the site and I have recently found more. Members post on the forums when they are looking for new weight loss buddies and it's simple to contact them. <br />
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I also have a <a href="http://www.fitbit.com/home" target="_blank">Fitbit</a>. I needed some way to really track how many calories I burn during workouts and this little gadget does the trick. It also monitors my sleep and records how many times I'm "awake". I knew that I moved around, coughed and sputtered without fully waking up and this tells me how much. The Fitbit also keeps track of my steps and stairs and the activities that I normally don't count, i.e., housework, gardening, etc. It syncs with My Fitness Pal and adds activity calories to my available total for the day.<br />
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I found an inexpensive <a href="http://www.worldgym.com/" target="_blank">gym</a> and joined. I had cancelled my previous gym membership and this one had a great deal and similar amenities. Plus there are <a href="http://www.zumba.com/" target="_blank">Zumba</a> classes every day! I mix classes with my at-home workouts. I have to have a little <a href="http://www.jillianmichaels.com/fit/" target="_blank">Jillian</a> or <a href="http://www.thehollywoodtrainer.com/" target="_blank">Jeanette</a> in my life too! Also, there is an app <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/app/nikewomen-training-club/id301521403" target="_blank">Nike Training Club</a>, that has free workouts. I print the gym schedule and post it on my desk along with a personal workout schedule. There it is staring me in the face all day!<br />
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There it is in black and white. The plan to once again take charge of my health. As usual, I'm promising myself that I'll keep working. After all, I'm worth it.<br />
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<br />Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-46042955890087077152012-12-17T06:01:00.003-08:002012-12-17T06:01:53.479-08:00Social Media Silence Thank you for the idea. <a href="http://www.ohsweetbasil.com/">Sweet Basil</a><br />
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<br />Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-6480460947139769512012-05-12T06:53:00.000-07:002012-05-12T07:02:16.091-07:00The FlowersMy dad always made sure that we always had our flowers. You see, back in the day, the flowers had a special significance.<br />
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My mother and I always wore a corsage to church on Mother's Day and daddy wore a boutonnière. Roses were nice, but carnations were a lot more practical. The flowers were color coded: <br />
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Red corsage if the recepients mother is alive. <br />
White corsage if the recepients mother is deceased.<br />
Yellow corsage if the recepient has a deceased child.<br />
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Mother's Day was always special to my mom. Her mother passed away when she was only six years old. I just can't imagine the grief of a six-year old child who has lost her mother. Six is just the age where a child would begin to understand death. She had two older sisters who did their best. Even as an adult, if she was sick or dreaming, she would call their names. <br />
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Then, their family received a blessing. My grandfather married a woman who had no children of her own. This woman married a man with four children who were still young. (The youngest was an infant when their mother died, and went to live with relatives. That is another amazing Mother's Day story!) Grandmomma Lou, as I called her, treated these children as if they were her own, and to my mother she was her "momma". As Grandmomma Lou's health failed to the point where my aunt could no longer manage her at home, she was placed in a skilled nursing facility near our home. My mother went to the nursing home every day. Yes, every day. My mother had to make sure that this remarkable woman knew that she was loved and appreciated.<br />
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My dad always made sure my mother had both a red flower and a white flower or a peppermint carnation with both the red and white colors. After Grandmomma Lou passed away, she had two white flowers. Every year, I remember this story. My single yellow rose pales in comparison.Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-65466843669722608992012-01-06T10:58:00.000-08:002012-01-06T10:58:42.149-08:00Happy New Year!Yes, it is a Happy New Year. We are alive and kicking and some of us are fat and happy; or maybe not so happy about the weight, but happy about being alive. I am trying to get back on track following the holidays. By all of the chatter on Twitter and Facebook, a lot of others are having the same idea. I have my goals for the year, some of them diet and exercise and some of them for other aspects of my life. No, they are NOT resolutions. I know that I won't immediately achieve them, but I am making a conscious effort to continue to work on them all year in an effort to achieve my goals by the end of the year. So often, we make the huge resolutions or unattainable goals and then become frustrated and give up when we can't achieve the goal or fail early in the journey. We have to realize that we didn't gain the weight (or whatever the problem is) overnight and we sure won't solve the problem overnight. It just doesn't work that way.<br />
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Now that that's off my chest, here are some of the things that I am doing to get back on track.<br />
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1. Reconnect with <a href="http://shrinkingjeans.net/">The Sisterhood </a>. I love this website and their community page aka The Hood. They have great challenges and everyone supports each other. We get together and chat, workout, discuss all of our diet and exercise issue and victories. And, it's FREE!<br />
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2. Spend more time on <a href="http://www.jillianmichaels.com/">Jillian Michaels.com</a> . After all, I am paying for my membership. I am working on my daily exercise plan, but I do need to ramp it up. I don't eat all of the recipes that she suggests, but I use her plan as a base. It's another good site. Recently, there was another special offer for the site, but I'm not sure if it's still in effect. Also her podcasts are FREE99! Just search for them in iTunes.<br />
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3. Keep using <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/">My Fitness Pal</a> . This is a great tool to track your diet/calories, and exercise. You can also connect with your friends that are using the site. Talk about accountability. There is a little statement that pops up if you haven't logged in for several days and they can also view your diet and exercise dairy. There is also a place to blog and a forum section. I have my account set to post on Twitter and FB when I complete a day and whether I was below my daily calories. They also have apps for iPhone and Android. There is no excuse for not keeping track.<br />
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4. Go back to Zumba. When I moved, I moved closer to a different gym (same company, different location). Between the move and my sporadic back pain, I haven't been doing one of my favorite activities. Zumba is a blast. Check out your gym schedule or one of the games for a fun workout. That brings me to one more.<br />
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5. Get back in the gym. I don't like doing weight training at the gym. The gym regulars are just too intimidating, but the classes are what I really enjoy. I need to try some different classes, so that's on my agenda. Also, I need to get back in the habit of going to the gym at lunch to get in a little extra cardio. That means I MUST KEEP MY BAG READY. When you're running out of the house in the morning, is no time to try to put your clothes and shoes in the gym bag.<br />
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6. Plan my meals. If you want to fail in the eating healthy department, fail to plan your meals. There is nothing worse than being hungry and just grabbing a bite somewhere or foraging in a poorly stocked pantry or fridge. You must plan your meals and shop. Figure out what you will eat for the week and stock your house. If you have a trigger food, DO NOT BUY IT! I love Popchips. They are "not bad", but I eat a whole bag every time I buy them. NO! NO! NO!<br />
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I think I'm done. Besides, one of my new challenges is based on the Brett Blumenthal book <a href="http://amzn.com/1612181392">52 Small Changes to a Happier, Healthier You</a> The first week is water and I need a break now..........Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-47999375914220883702011-11-09T10:12:00.000-08:002011-11-09T10:14:31.011-08:00The Terror of HalloweenI had intended to post before now, but I've done everything but that. I've been journaling my food and trying to squeeze in my exercise and get in bed a little earlier. Some days are more successful than others, but that's life.<br />
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Last week was a challenge. Halloween was full of sweet treats. By the end of the evening, I only had ten pieces of candy that had not been given out to the little gremlins. Even though most of my candy was chocolate, I did NOT eat any! The remnants were consumed by my little neighborhood girls when they came to visit my dog the next day. (Yes, my dog gets visitors; but that's another post.)<br />
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The bigger challenge was the potluck at the office. I had a plan. I took my own breakfast and snacks and I would eat the meat, fruit and veggies from the potluck. The dish that I prepared was a<a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2011/10/low-fat-pumpkin-bread-with-pepitas.html"> low fat pumpkin bread recipe from Skinnytaste</a>.<br />
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Things went well until the slow-cookers arrived bringing meatballs and little smokies to simmer all day, filling the office with the aroma of sweet, yummy barbecue sauce. Can you tell that I was just about to lose my mind? I had a healthy snack, but I was drooling like a dog waiting for a treat. I even put my goal weight on a sticky note. It is still on my monitor. Finally, I gave in and made a plate with a few meatballs and some fruit. I knew that I had to run an errand at lunch and I had wisely packed my gym bag; so off to the gym I went.<br />
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I made a list of the things at the potluck. More than willpower enabled me to navigate this:<br />
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Meat and cheese tray<br />
2 creamy dips<br />
BBQ meatballs<br />
Lil smokies<br />
Chips,Chips, Chips (So many chips that there is still an unopened bag)<br />
Cookies--those soft iced ones.......<br />
Fudge (There are still a few pieces lurking around)<br />
Cupcakes<br />
My pumpkin bread<br />
Fruit tray with some dip in the middle<br />
Veggie tray with of course, ranch in the middle<br />
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Can you imagine? <br />
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Even with all of this, I'm down nine pounds. Yippee!!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXMFlyofKcVrYxTvCjsjJ2S-8-_890iuT1Eyk2_JMGeQGOIKVtWS9YVXr0wT9slKTaT25kE51UIP6z_dPlwRoiK1VLII4R3ZlcdLrZfxwg-RQ3iY5fSjpV7Rbg5jTIhnVfZDYhF-o9FI/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXMFlyofKcVrYxTvCjsjJ2S-8-_890iuT1Eyk2_JMGeQGOIKVtWS9YVXr0wT9slKTaT25kE51UIP6z_dPlwRoiK1VLII4R3ZlcdLrZfxwg-RQ3iY5fSjpV7Rbg5jTIhnVfZDYhF-o9FI/s320/photo.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-9001834097779615302011-10-25T10:58:00.000-07:002011-10-25T10:58:46.212-07:00My Fight Against the Michelin ManThe Michelin man look is not a good look on me. I know it's all about what's inside, but the outside is adversely affecting the inside. I saw a great deal for <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1839790128">J</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1839790128">illian Michaels</a><a href="http://www.jillianmichaels.com/">'</a> online program. My husband saw the same deal several weeks later and mentioned it to me. Of course, my link had expired, but he found his link and it worked. So now I've signed up for Jillian Michaels' website for SIX MONTHS!!! Since I've been neglecting my blog, I have decided to blog about my experience, lessons, etc.<br />
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I have been listening to Jillian's podcasts on <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jillian-michaels-show/id418368811">iTunes</a>. If you haven't listened to one, you're missing out. She and Janice have a blast and with her expertise and that of here guests, one can definitely learn a lot. You also get to see more than one side of her--some of her callers can definitely attest to that.<br />
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I also have<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Master-Your-Metabolism-Naturally-Balancing/dp/0307450732"> Mastering Your Metabolism</a> so I know her angle. Eat whole organic foods.( No High Fructose Corn Syrup, No pesticides, No genetically modified anything, Avoid processed food whenever possible) If it doesn't have a momma or grow out of the ground, DON'T EAT IT!! That sounds great, but it is easier said than done. We eat so much junk that we crave it. That combined with the emotional factor that a lot of us have and our sedentary lifestyles is a recipe for disaster. <br />
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Most of the problems that I have experienced since I started the program are self-made:<br />
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<i><b>I haven't religiously kept track of my calories in and calories out.</b></i> In a past life, I was religious about that, but I am struggling to get back in the habit. The website has an online journal, but the database on <a href="http://myfitnesspal.com/">myfitnesspal.com</a> is larger. If I will just do this, I can use<a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/"> myfitnesspal.com</a> for my food and exercise journal. It's available on PC or <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/mobile">smartphone</a>.<br />
<i><b>I have made some poor food choices since I started.</b></i> Let's talk about fried catfish. You know I'm a Southern girl and that is a major weakness for me. Next was pizza even though I did manage to limit it to two small pieces with fruit and later popcorn. Finally a trip to In-N-Out. Animal Protein style (lettuce instead of bread with grilled onions) I forgot and got the sauce instead of mustard, but only a couple of my husband's fries and NO SHAKE!! The days that I did well, I planned my meals and made sure there were healthy choices in my fridge and pantry.<br />
<i><b>I am fighting the expense vs organic issue</b></i>. I know very well what I should buy, but I am also about the deals and using my coupons. Let's face it, it is more expensive to eat healthy--what a shame. I know I will make it work. I'm too stubborn and cheap to not get a deal, so here's the plan. Check all of the circulars, websites for coupons, deals, sales, freebies. Make sure an item really has to be organic. Foods that will be peeled don't have to be organic. I shop at Sprouts frequently and they have the best sales on produce, frozen organic foods, dairy, and meat. I'll use the money saved from other deals to fund the healthy stuff.<br />
<i><b>I stay up too late. </b></i>I know about hormones and sleep, and getting hungry because I'm up too late. I have always been a night owl. I worked second shift forever, but I have to get my rest. No amount of nagging will change my internal clock. Some days I won't make it to bed when I should, but if I make that effort, I will eventually get there earlier.<br />
<i><b>My fitness level is not what it used to be. </b></i>I have really lost ground in this area. Even before I started gaining weight, I was struggling. At that time it was heat and asthma. Now it's conditioning and the added pounds. If anyone knows how to get past the pain when you're overweight and trying to exercise, please let me know. I have been going to they gym, but between my knees, and back, I've been relegated to the bike with an occasional session on the elliptical. I am trying to do the workouts on my program and I have to remember that I won't be able to do the full number of sets, but eventually I will. Back in the day, I could easily do 30 Day Shred, but now that's just not possible. If I keep working, I'll be back there.<br />
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Now for the good news. I have lost five pounds in the last couple of weeks. I know that's not monumental, but it's a start and a little much needed momentum. Until next time.....Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-8206226906966077232011-10-11T17:17:00.000-07:002011-10-11T17:17:49.393-07:00Heart WalkI have several posts coming up, but this one is overdue.<br />
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One of the main reasons that I keep fighting the health and fitness battle is because I have a family history of stroke and hypertension. This makes my participation in the American Heart Association Heart Walk personal. It's not only about the patients that I have encountered over the years, it's about my health, and the health of my family and my extended family.<br />
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I received an email today that gave examples of what your contribution means...<br />
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<div class="yiv97248049MsoNormal" id="yui_3_2_0_1_1318376514991139"><i><span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Did you know…</span></i><span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">1 in 3 Americans suffer from heart and blood vessel diseases – our nation’s leading cause of death?</span></div><div class="yiv97248049MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div><div class="yiv97248049MsoNormal" id="yui_3_2_0_1_1318376514991136"><span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">What the donations mean…</span></div><div class="yiv97248049MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div><ul id="yui_3_2_0_1_1318376514991124" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="yiv97248049MsoNormal" id="yui_3_2_0_1_1318376514991123"><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1318376514991122" style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">For a <b>$25</b> contribution to the American Heart Association, you can teach up to 50 people how to assess their risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, and provide the steps for them to identify and reduce their risk.</span></li>
</ul><div class="yiv97248049MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;"><span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="yiv97248049MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">A <b>$50</b> donation can provide an early career scientist with the opportunity to participate with peers in the latest cardiovascular and stroke research through a one year professional membership with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.</span></li>
</ul><div class="yiv97248049MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;"><span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="yiv97248049MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">For only <b>$100</b>, you can equip one hospital or health department with American Stroke Association resources to educate patients, the public, and health professionals on stroke prevention and life after a stroke – the #3 cause of death and leading cause of disability.</span></li>
</ul><br />
<span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">The Denton Heart Walk is Saturday, October 15. If you would like to contribute, please click <a href="http://heartwalk.kintera.org/dentontx/eunicemullins">here</a> It will take you to my donation page.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!</span>Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-90907838523025928772011-08-24T20:25:00.000-07:002011-08-24T20:25:11.306-07:00Oh My Aching Back I am so frustrated with my attempts to workout. Last week I only squeezed in one day, so this week was going to be better. Well, "what happened was" I jumped in with both feet Monday. I went to the gym even though the rest of my crew couldn't make it. I did 32 minutes on the bike and 100 crunches. Tuesday, I didn't make it. Wednesday, my back did not like the fact that I worked out Monday after slacking off for a week. Now, several Aleve and several rounds of ice and heat later (and Biofreeze), I'll probably be out tomorrow also. I didn't even get to do Zumba this week before my old body wore out on me. I'll never get the belly off with this back pain, but the back pain won't get better with the belly weight. Good grief! <br />
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There were some good things that happened. I did avoid the birthday cake this week. I substituted low-fat cinnamon graham crackers. I am trying to cut the sugar as much as possible, so the graham crackers are better than regular cookies or cake. Sunday, we fired up the grill and I scored "moneymaker" deals on salad, so it made dinners a "no-brainer". (I won't talk about Saturday's anniversary lunch at Abuelos.)<br />
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I also definitely know that things are so much easier to deal with when I've had my quiet time aka prayer and meditation. Things just don't bug me quite as much. I'm also leaning on the serenity prayer. I am a control freak and I have got to learn to let go of the stuff that I really have no control over and fix the things that I do have control over. This will also be a baby steps process, but I'll eventually make it.<br />
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Oh yeah, I finally took down that Easter wallpaper. Now if I can figure out how to move my header so that the logo from the freebie wallpaper doesn't cover it up....<br />
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Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-48686684970259922782011-08-15T10:37:00.000-07:002011-08-15T10:37:55.865-07:00I'm Baaack!I've been gone too long. I've let everything get in the way of my health. I kept saying that I would get back on track, but it didn't happen. Now the move has been completed for a couple of months; so it's time to get the routine back. I don't think I ever recovered from working a second job. I just never managed to get my mojo back. One thing after another happened and I am more overweight and less fit than I was six months ago and definitely a year ago. <br />
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I have been going to the gym at lunch with my co-workers, but I have not been making it to my classes or walking a trail. I've moved away from my favorite trail, so I need to check out the ones closer to my home, but with the 100+ degree temperatures, that really has not been an option. Last week I went to Zumba at the gym that is closer to home and work. I made it through the entire class. I felt so out of shape that I really wondered if I would last. I do a lot better in a class that doing weights or cardio using the machines. I did try a spin bike, but I've gone back to the regular exercise bike. It easier on my rear, I feel that I need to increase my endurance before I tackle a spin class.<br />
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No matter how much I exercise, my main problem is and has always been THE FOOD. It just doesn't work if you eat your workout. In other words, I can't burn what I eat. There are too many calories. I've been trying an online journal, but once I get home, it's done. I know I'm a food addict. All of the signs are there. The more stress I feel, the more I eat. It's just insane. I found some Overeaters Anonymous podcasts and I could really relate. I've known for a while that alone I really am not in control. I am also understanding why some people attain lifetime in Weight Watchers, but keep that yo-yo cycle and keep returning. Everytime I return I hear those same stories from people who didn't quite make it to lifetime or are lifetime members and have re-gained most or all of their weight. We are doing the best that we can, but we are trying to control something that we have cannot control. I'm not ready for the OA meetings yet, but I know I'll have to do it. If you like the show Intervention, stay tuned....<br />
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Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-64716631202895777722011-05-10T23:02:00.000-07:002011-05-10T23:02:39.899-07:00My Own Episode of HoardersI'm taking a break. I'm blogging instead of finding something else to eat. We're moving and I'm trying to pack. Tonight my insanity stems from my hoarding and procrastination. Actually, this time it was my mother's hoarding. I simply continued the tradition. <br />
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My parents were forced to move when my mother could no longer care for my dad. If your parents are aging and you <i><b>think</b></i> that you have a plan, or you choose to stick your head in the sand, you'd better pull your head out with both hands. (I could teach a class on that.) My parents knew that at some point they would need to move out of the house where they had lived for over 50 years. My mother was the most able-bodied of the two and they were supposedly going through and purging things in preparation for an eventual move. I do realize that she had her hands full taking care of my father, but I also realize that this was something that she did not want to face. <br />
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When the move occurred, I was shocked at the amount of "stuff" that they had kept throughout the years. They collected antiques and vintage items. Furniture, pottery, glassware--you name it. Some trinkets were purchased and some were gifts or family mementos. There were old receipts, even for a appliances purchased many years before my birth. At one point, my mother's cabinets were so full of stuff that the mounting began to fail and the cabinets had to be emptied and reinforced. I did not realize that she filled them up again. Most of those things were moved to my house. We managed to incorporate some items into our home decor, but some things still remained boxed up We tried to start the process, but either Mother's sleep disorder would kick in or we would spend too much time reading every piece of paper, looking at every picture, reminiscing too much, and laughing too hard.<br />
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Fast forward to the present. My dad passed away in 2005 and my mother passed away in 2008. Guess which only child has been too overwhelmed to deal with it all? Guess who left her mother's room mostly as it was when she had to go to a nursing home at least a year before her death? Guess who has also inherited the hoarding gene?<br />
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This weekend, I realized that we never opened my dad's briefcase after we moved him to the nursing home. It was just as he had left it the last time he went to church with it. A Bible, pens, and sermons were still neatly in place. There was even a card that he had received from one of the families of one of his churches. Last night I finally went through the chest of drawers and discarded old unusable stuff and organized probably 20 handkerchiefs. I even found gloves that I could have loaned to Queen Elizabeth for the Royal Wedding. Tonight it was a box of papers--sermons, class notes, and cute inspirational sayings, poems, whatever. Being a hoarder myself, I am actually struggling. Even though I know that most of this stuff I will never need, I feel guilty every time I toss a piece of paper in the trash pile. This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are boxes of cookbooks and recipes. Handwritten recipes, recipes torn our of magazines and/or newspapers. There are probably thousands of pieces of paper. Here's one more guess who. Guess who now does the same thing?????<br />
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I have come to realize that I won't be able to go through every single thing before we move. (I need Peter Walsh or Hoarders, but I don't live in California, and I can't wait.) I will go through at least one box/bin every day. I am trying my best to not move some of this stuff' again. I also <i><b>must</b></i> start <a href="http://www.flylady.net/">Fly Lady</a> again. That will keep me organized and keep this hoarding under control. Wish me luck!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJuCJ6uwf4-hw-xt-xHPgZ6ylF8l91xaiH-SIN5qtPXzWDvkNRfq8ucsJtB0AVYytFEfm3iw2gUWN_m91BV-FBZCNAmo_dXwZgB4-c_Xeu__Jhk-ngnx8wpQIEgPm7s7d9dVO3kHU8WI/s1600/IMAG0138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJuCJ6uwf4-hw-xt-xHPgZ6ylF8l91xaiH-SIN5qtPXzWDvkNRfq8ucsJtB0AVYytFEfm3iw2gUWN_m91BV-FBZCNAmo_dXwZgB4-c_Xeu__Jhk-ngnx8wpQIEgPm7s7d9dVO3kHU8WI/s320/IMAG0138.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The card</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbJ0geFVqvmi72EqyMBMBeBRZubL7OjWXppusfavucNRvaeDOWWk184ScA6n1D5sK8VHAqJ-43q8bdalpw_UxIJRlsIkctoeUVbjaDAhS4HPQP0JkP5gywR2pV2yJh8q9ScihdsQ7FVU/s1600/IMAG0145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbJ0geFVqvmi72EqyMBMBeBRZubL7OjWXppusfavucNRvaeDOWWk184ScA6n1D5sK8VHAqJ-43q8bdalpw_UxIJRlsIkctoeUVbjaDAhS4HPQP0JkP5gywR2pV2yJh8q9ScihdsQ7FVU/s320/IMAG0145.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Windsor, Canada from the 1960's</td></tr>
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</a></div>Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-53869365676859681422011-04-08T18:02:00.000-07:002011-04-08T18:16:24.950-07:00True ConfessionI am Rulon. (He is <i><b>The Biggest Loser</b></i> contestant that was busted this week for eating chips, candy, whatever in his room late at night.) I am the late night binge eater. It can be any food. Tuesday night (yes, after watching<i><b> The Biggest Loser</b></i>) it was tortilla chips. It can be fruit, ice cream, crackers--anything.<br />
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I have done this since I was a child. My parents would fall asleep before bedtime and their night-owl child would rummage through the house for anything to binge on. My mother, the cook from heaven, always had something stashed, even if it was frozen. Frozen homemade cookies are wonderful! Once it was even a bag of prunes--with no ill effects afterwards. I was busted when my dad found the empty bag and pits. Now, like a true addict a get a "hangover". I had might as well have had a drinking binge; after all, it feels the same--queasy stomach, headache and the guilt and total feeling of stupidity.<br />
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Why do I do this? I don't even know. I always have had portion control issues. Everyday stress, fear, etc are probably the root cause. Now I want to lose these pounds that I have gained and I keep sabotaging the process. For goodness sake, I know what to eat, how to exercise, but I keep doing this to myself. <br />
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In a recent <a href="http://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/do-you-have-an-addiction-to-food-5-food-addiction-symptoms">Shape magazine article</a> Jennipher Walters (<a href="http://fitbottomedgirls.com%20/">FitBottomedGirls.com </a>and <a href="http://fitbottomedmamas.com/">FitBottomedMamas.com</a>) outlined five symptoms of food addiction. I can check them off:<br />
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<b>1</b><b>.Food is all you think about--</b><i>Not all but a lot</i><br />
<b>2</b>.<b>You want to stop but you can't--</b><i>That's what this post is about...</i><b><br />
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<b>3.</b><b> You eat in secret or lie about how much you've eaten</b>--<i>Late night, alone seems to be a favorite M.O., but it isn't always in secret.</i> <br />
<b>4.</b><b>You eat beyond the point of fullness</b>--<i>I've ignored full so much that</i> <i>I don't even know what full really is anymore.</i><br />
<b>5.</b><b>You are compelled to eat when you're not hungry or are feeling low</b>. <i> And I'll add or feeling great or just any excuse.</i><br />
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Also here's the link to a quiz from <i><b>Eating Well</b></i> <a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/nutrition_health/nutrition_news_information/are_you_addicted_to_food">Are You Addicted to Food Quiz</a>. It called me food dependent which means I still need help...." Your results indicate that <b>you might be "food dependent."</b> For information and referrals to treatment providers and support groups, call the National <a class="itxtrst itxtrsta itxthook" href="http://www.eatingwell.com/node/16906/done?sid=152923#" id="itxthook0" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: 0.075em solid blue; color: blue; font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; padding-bottom: 1px; text-decoration: underline;"><span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxthookspan" id="itxthook0w0" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: blue; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Eating</span></a> Disorder Association's helpline, 800-931-2237, or visit NationalEatingDisorders.org. You can also find a clinical psychologist or clinical health psychologist (PhD or PsyD) who specializes in disordered eating or weight management through the American Psychological Association’s Psychologist Locator (locator.apa.org) or seek support through Overeaters Anonymous (oa.org)." OK tell me something I didn't know.<br />
<br />
I won't bore you with all of the scientific stuff about dopamine receptors vs environment and this study and that study. I'll just say from first hand experience, this is just like being a drug or alcohol addict. Same feelings, same urges, same, same, same.<br />
<br />
Since I can't afford therapy for this, I'll have to work with it like I have in the past. Normally my Weight Watchers routines help, but this time it's not working. Really, I'm not working. I have to buckle down and remember<i><b> Eating </b></i><i><b>Well'</b></i>s list which does remind me of some other tools I have. After all I do have that gold key.....<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/nutrition_health/weight_loss_diet_plans/diet_exercise_tips/8_tips_for_winning_the_food_fight">Here are Eating Well's tips: </a><br />
<b>1. Write it down</b>---if I would only consistently do this.....<br />
<b>2. Plan an occasional trea</b>t.. Have it in a restaurant instead of home. Don't bring that cheesecake or chips into the house. Order it out in the open where you can manage your portion size.<br />
<b>3. No grazing</b>...3 meals and an afternoon snack. Have a little protein at each one and don't get too hungry.<br />
<b>4. No eating in front of the tv</b>... or desk, or computer, or in the car. This stops the mindless eating.<br />
<b>5. Be prepared for surprise temptations</b>...Have your script ready. (Isn't this a Weight Watchers tool too?) I'll add don't be sabotaged by anything anyone offers you or buys for you or is<i><b> on sale</b></i>. (On sale--my favorite.)<br />
<b>6. Have healthy options for emotions</b>--meditation,exercise, etc<br />
<b>7. Hide tempting foods</b>...I am less likely to eat them if I put them in the back of the cabinet as soon as I get home from the store. If it's out on the kitchen table or counter its gone!<br />
<b>8. Make it a hassle to overeat</b>.......Bag up your portions when you get home from the store; use smaller plates, and my restaurant favorite is order a to-go container when the waiter brings the meal. Place half of the meal into the container and close it. And <i><b>always</b></i> share dessert.<br />
<br />
OK. We're starting over...again on Monday. (Dr. Phil isn't here so I don't have to start right here, right now.) Some of my friends/co-workers/weight-loss challenge buddies are heading to the gym at lunch time starting next week so it will be a good time to re-new. Wish me luck, think positive thoughts, say a little prayer for me. I'll need it.Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-84357003182949746422011-01-17T13:15:00.000-08:002011-01-17T13:20:39.805-08:00I Remember<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>"We may have all come on different ships, but we're in the same boat now." - Martin Luther King, Jr.</b></i></span></div><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><span class="messageBody">"I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear." -Martin Luther King, Jr.</span></b></i></span></h6><br />
Today is the day that we celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I remember his life and I hope that I can preserve his legacy.<br />
<br />
Every day there is something that reminds me of the Civil Rights era. Whether it's simply the cultural differences in my own household or whether I see President Barack Obama on television. It might be something so simple as eating at a restaurant where I would not have been welcome during that era, or even noting my educational background which would have been difficult if not impossible prior to this era. I remember the ugly words, dogs commanded to attack, water hoses, firebombs, and assassinations. (No I didn't forget the white hoods and rebel flags either.) It makes me thankful for the progress that has been made, but also painfully aware of how far we still have to go.<br />
<br />
There is still a lot of hate and anger in this world. Some are aware and strive to do better, some know and try to cover it up in the presence of those who would object, and some are still very blatant with it. There are also those who use the weaker ones to push their agenda. They whisper in an ear and sit back and watch the fight. Just remember if you must apologize before you make the statement, do damage control after a statement, or if it has to be said behind closed doors it is not appropriate and it is hateful. If we stop the yelling and actually stop and calmly and rationally talk to each other and truly listen, maybe we can all co-exist, accomplish something and learn to love one another.<br />
<br />
We should stop today and every day and take a good look in the mirror. Do we see hate or love?Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-11465337999520454782011-01-08T07:07:00.000-08:002011-01-08T07:07:42.065-08:00SunsetIf I kept a favorite things list like Oprah does, sunrises and sunsets would be at the at the top of my list. I can never capture the beauty, the colors. Texas is blessed with some of the most spectacular skies from the cloudless beautiful blues to the cloud-streaked sunrises and sunsets with their brilliant blues, purples, oranges and reds. Don't forget the building thunderstorms that you can see for miles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl46ZqHEspAXJk3jsTcfOw1-_QnDZ7PVWcyn8XWWplNAWLBeiTlxn_j9heIHXFc8pXML5O5L4dkHZ02DhUUVPdPIh-IQsHsvrrgw2n42OQXHwGLyKPJy7ztqNfuk2GCgwRHrQ-ytKipw/s1600/2011-01-07_17-48-37_367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl46ZqHEspAXJk3jsTcfOw1-_QnDZ7PVWcyn8XWWplNAWLBeiTlxn_j9heIHXFc8pXML5O5L4dkHZ02DhUUVPdPIh-IQsHsvrrgw2n42OQXHwGLyKPJy7ztqNfuk2GCgwRHrQ-ytKipw/s320/2011-01-07_17-48-37_367.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbh7douxOBYjmuyTm0sD1CY21PSCc8q4YwH21hc4P_vMjXFBAcM09YjkvxyMP8-nH-_F1qt6CVuqbO5Wz8sktzPSAUha7AvVzqeuWOKqmi7PHxSrTzbWVBbiJjgUJTM7FUJGY7_IfJCQ/s1600/2011-01-07_17-48-19_852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbh7douxOBYjmuyTm0sD1CY21PSCc8q4YwH21hc4P_vMjXFBAcM09YjkvxyMP8-nH-_F1qt6CVuqbO5Wz8sktzPSAUha7AvVzqeuWOKqmi7PHxSrTzbWVBbiJjgUJTM7FUJGY7_IfJCQ/s320/2011-01-07_17-48-19_852.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>If I could only paint.........One of these days I'll learn to keep my Nikon with me at all times. My Droid camera just doesn't do this sunset justice. Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-57548481356423195272011-01-05T17:48:00.000-08:002011-01-05T18:20:40.678-08:00Caching Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPH7vxxhVjQnZxL5menZW3SkTtsRWnXgjy6OOHuvAN7GoKTI6KHhDaGYFQeemGVnJjzLmLcnYYnxvzBaYwWBa3giwpWZ5vujiWaYlAuLZ-yrmohdglpe3BBDn0jgi5zC0DNVifOpCysCs/s1600/2010-11-29_19-04-48_680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPH7vxxhVjQnZxL5menZW3SkTtsRWnXgjy6OOHuvAN7GoKTI6KHhDaGYFQeemGVnJjzLmLcnYYnxvzBaYwWBa3giwpWZ5vujiWaYlAuLZ-yrmohdglpe3BBDn0jgi5zC0DNVifOpCysCs/s320/2010-11-29_19-04-48_680.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I am so far behind on everything. Working a second job took a definite toll on me and my home. I haven't been able to adequately plan and cook meals and I have been too exhausted to exercise. We won't even discuss the house. My husband tried to help, but women can see all of the dust and lack of order. (He even learned to clean toilets and run a Swiffer!) My bank account is no fatter either. Working late nights and rushing from one job to the next encouraged the awful fast food habit and there was no time to do any of the things that I always did to save money. I no longer clipped coupons or even loaded my Kroger card online. I hardly ever cooked so there was always a need to stop and pick up a burger or Chick-fil-a. I won't even talk about how many times I had to "hop on the tollway". Now that we have two full-time employed adults here, I realized that I was ripping, running, and exhausted for nothing. So the second job is done, finished, I quit.<br />
<br />
Now I have to get a routine going again. I have to plan meals and get this house in shape. I have a huge job ahead of me. Guess it's time to read my<a href="http://www.flylady.net/"> Fly-Lady</a> e-mails and try out more of <a href="http://amzn.com/0345520904">Rocco's recipes</a>. I'll keep y'all posted. (Yes, I'm behind on blogging too!)Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-66916624668379363832010-11-15T23:16:00.000-08:002010-11-15T23:18:43.666-08:00Off course, of course<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEbydBRVJ3984ILWprQCRk94MyO6rHL8fGdh_oX984DqVaeZjU9m2a4Ze_V7u3UO8CkS8xIHZP7B-JNbgrVrCna3wzDHih58SY1GvM5Q2Gl1HVdCJbinRZYHr2vk_7mBL-2goAM-A_ew/s1600/5+Star+at+Sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEbydBRVJ3984ILWprQCRk94MyO6rHL8fGdh_oX984DqVaeZjU9m2a4Ze_V7u3UO8CkS8xIHZP7B-JNbgrVrCna3wzDHih58SY1GvM5Q2Gl1HVdCJbinRZYHr2vk_7mBL-2goAM-A_ew/s320/5+Star+at+Sunset.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I am off track--again!! My weight went up a little a couple of weeks ago and is slowly going down, but I still know I'm off-track and "out of sorts". I haven't adjusted to working two jobs. Part (probably MOST) of my issue is stress, anger, frustration, anxiety, all of the above. Job #2 involves physical labor and I'm on my feet the entire time so when I'm not working I just sit. I am tired--yes I know I should go to bed earlier, but by the time my head hits the pillow I am asleep. Last week I couldn't even make myself do my T-workout. I never miss that unless I'm at work! I did walk my 5K Sunday. (See gorgeous sunset shown above!) Tomorrow I have to do my T-workout or walk some at lunch. I really miss Zumba!<br />
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I also don't have the food thing down yet. I eat on the way to the second job. I'm getting tired of the PB on Ezekiel bread and an apple or banana so I need to re-group on that also. Then, of course, I eat when I get home. The past week it has been a heavier meal than usual. Then I didn't prepare my meals ahead and ate lunch out several days last week. Then we ate out both Saturday and Sunday. It was the fabulous Gazeebo burger turkey burger (with avocado, mushrooms--no mayo) and (bad-girl) french fries on Saturday and Sunday it was Cantina Laredo with the warm salsa and chips. I ordered the Enchilada Veracruz stuffed with chicken, spinach and monterey jack cheese topped with tomatillo sauce, vinaigrette marinated vegetables, and cotija cheese--yummy. <br />
<br />
So the shopping is done and there are healthy choices in the house. Wednesday is a holiday potluck so I'm working on my plan for the week. I'm taking the Sweet Pumpkin Polenta to the potluck!Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-58471191696022219522010-11-07T21:40:00.001-08:002010-11-07T22:47:52.283-08:00Breakfast with Cheryl Forberg, RD<div class="mobile-photo" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47z55Ij0kI2MXcjleke9c158g9pgSbr4IDSCeFfddwFRtbWv_RTQYeW_vKGT0P7ViMzsA4Xf-hzhmAHJc_6LLxbhoksbt5NPvIPq3cwbZC6DhXYh8Z9Qqp8QjsJTm2BY4k8biet40f5Y/s1600/=%3Futf-8%3FB%3FSU1HMDAwMjUtMjAxMDExMDItMDkxMi5qcGc=%3F=-756888"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537049751004540466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47z55Ij0kI2MXcjleke9c158g9pgSbr4IDSCeFfddwFRtbWv_RTQYeW_vKGT0P7ViMzsA4Xf-hzhmAHJc_6LLxbhoksbt5NPvIPq3cwbZC6DhXYh8Z9Qqp8QjsJTm2BY4k8biet40f5Y/s320/=%3Futf-8%3FB%3FSU1HMDAwMjUtMjAxMDExMDItMDkxMi5qcGc=%3F=-756888" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I had a fantastic opportunity last week. I attended a breakfast event featuring<a href="http://www.cherylforberg.com/blog"> Cheryl Forberg, RD</a>. Cheryl is a chef and a Registered Dietitian and is the nutritionist for NBC's <i><b>The Biggest Lose</b><b>r</b></i>. The event benefited Days of Taste. <a href="http://www.aiwf.org/dallasftworth/days_of_taste.html">Days of Taste</a> is a program that teaches 4th and 5th graders where their food comes from so it is a very worthy cause. This event was a short distance from my home so there was no way I was going to pass it up.<br />
<br />
Cheryl was very nice and it was great to be able to ask her questions and get a lot a valuable information. I also had a chance to thank her for the<a href="https://www.hersheys.com/moderationnation/"> Hershey Moderation Nation</a> promotion that enabled me to have a free consultation with a registered dietitian. <a href="http://stashakucel.com/">Stasha</a> helped me so much. Cheryl is one of a group of RD's who use successfully use social media. It's great to follow them on Twitter and Facebook. I learn so much on a daily basis. <br />
<br />
Since I'm not a dietitian, I took notes because I knew there was no way I would remember everything. Some points re-emphasized things I knew and some were things I didn't know. I am putting my notes in the weekly newsletter that I write for our weight-loss challenge at the office. I am considering just blogging about one tip per day until I go through my list.<br />
<br />
We also had a chance to ask "behind the scenes" questions about <a href="http://www.nbc.com/the-biggest-loser/">The Biggest Loser</a>. I feel that there is just not enough shown about the nutrition of the contestants. They don't seem to show the nutrition portion unless a celebrity chef shows up or they're plugging a sponsor. This is very important. We can all move more, but unless we have the proper nutrition and know how many calories we need it just doesn't work. I know this from my own experience! We have to have the full picture. (OK, I'm off my soapbox now.)<br />
<br />
Now for the food. Chef Whitey Hershorn at Sysco foods (our location for the event) prepared the food. He prepared egg whites with brown rice and caramelized onions and Cheryl's recipe Sweet Pumpkin Polenta. (Cheryl demonstrated the preparation of the polenta dish.) The food was awesome! We also had yogurt and berries (which is a great side for the polenta), turkey bacon, english muffins, peanut butter, granola......I probably forgot something, but you get the idea. <br />
<br />
Here's the recipe for the polenta. I made it this weekend. It didn't taste exactly like Chef Whitey's but it was good. Really, it would have been better but I didn't have the full amount of agave and I was didn't want to wait until I could go to the store for more. Also note that a can of pumpkin is not quite 2 cups. This dish works for breakfast or a desert.<br />
<br />
<h3 class="western">Sweet Pumpkin Polenta </h3>from <b><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="btAsinTitle"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Positively-Ageless-28-Day-Younger-Slimmer/dp/1594866163?&camp=212361&linkCode=wey&tag=stoptheclockc-20&creative=380733">Positively Ageless: A 28-Day Plan for a Younger, Slimmer, Sexier You</a> </span></span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="btAsinTitle">Cheryl Forberg, RD</span></span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="btAsinTitle"> </span></span></i></b><br />
MAKES 8 SERVINGS<br />
The smell of sweet spices will fill the air while this creamy dessert is baking. It’s divine straight from the oven but tastes heavenly the next day when it’s cold—if there’s any left the next day.<br />
<ul><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">2 cups pumpkin puree, fresh or canned</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">1 large omega-3 egg, lightly beaten</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">2/3 cup agave nectar</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">½ teaspoon ground ginger</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">¼ teaspoon ground cloves </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">1/3 cup stone-ground cornmeal or polenta</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">2 cups water</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">1 cup low-fat, or fat-free milk</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">½ teaspoon salt</div></li>
<li>toasted pecans (optional)<br />
</li>
</ul>Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 2-quart soufflé dish or casserole with olive oil cooking spray. Set aside.<br />
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin, egg, agave, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine. Set aside.<br />
In a 2-quart saucepan, combine the cornmeal, water, milk, and salt; mix well. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Cook, stirring, 10 minutes or longer until thick and smooth. Remove from the heat. Carefully pour in the reserved pumpkin mixture and stir to combine. Pour into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 50 minutes, stirring well once, halfway through.<br />
The mixture will be thick and bubbly. Serve warm, sprinkled with toasted pecans, if desired.<br />
<br />
PUMPKIN FACTOID: Pumpkin’s high concentration of antioxidants and beta-carotene make it a favorite antiaging ingredient for skin-care products.<br />
<br />
<u>NUTRIENT ANALYSIS PER SERVING</u><br />
127 calories, 3 g protein, 26 g carbohydrates, 2 g total fat, 0 g saturated fat, 5 g monounsaturated fat, 30 mg omega-3s, 2 g fiber, 17 g sugar, 254 mg sodium<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #888888;"><br />
</span>Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-77682461714047684972010-11-05T20:58:00.001-07:002010-11-05T21:03:35.145-07:00The MuffinsHere's the recipe for the mini muffins that I made (and ate) last night. I took them to work this morning. <br />
I substituted Splenda Sugar Blend for the sugar. It actually made 48 mini muffins. I can't remember which blog/website posted this recipe.<br />
<br />
My next recipe will be Cheryl Forberg's pumpkin polenta!!! <br />
<br />
WHOLE WHEAT PUMPKIN MINI MUFFINS <br />
1/2 c. vegetable oil <br />
2 eggs <br />
1 2/3 c. whole wheat flour <br />
1 1/4 c. sugar <br />
1/2 tsp. nutmeg <br />
1/2 tsp. cinnamon <br />
1/4 tsp. baking powder <br />
1/3 c. water <br />
1 c. canned or homemade pumpkin puree <br />
1 tsp. baking soda <br />
1/2 tsp. salt <br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350°F <br />
Combine eggs, oil, water and pumpkin puree (use straight pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix). <br />
Sift dry ingredients together and gradually beat into first mixture. <br />
Pour into greased mini muffin pans (I actually use a cookie scoop to get it in the pan…it's the perfect size for mini muffins). <br />
Bake for 10-12 minutes. <br />
Makes about 36 mini muffinsEunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2210015206234404115.post-75429432500647291362010-11-04T22:51:00.001-07:002010-11-04T23:02:30.577-07:00Eating Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHE2flhmifGM9fPBmaIzNxYQAmP9ZRUN2QGhV0ylC-SM2KStmsoS1B3x-Z4PjOZsNAeGshiIscNtOy3i4AhUe6hT7iTKbcpqQEqv54cEc6iWyM7X3AMFBZYkZkvjrI-aoMsrwXCsaBKc/s1600/IMG00040-20101105-0057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHE2flhmifGM9fPBmaIzNxYQAmP9ZRUN2QGhV0ylC-SM2KStmsoS1B3x-Z4PjOZsNAeGshiIscNtOy3i4AhUe6hT7iTKbcpqQEqv54cEc6iWyM7X3AMFBZYkZkvjrI-aoMsrwXCsaBKc/s320/IMG00040-20101105-0057.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I'm eating again. Why?? Tonight it's the pumpkin mini-muffins that I made. (At least they're made with Splenda blend.) Earlier this week I ate chicken and dumplings. They were good and comforting.I hadn't had them in years. At lunch and the afternoon slump today I ate some sweet truffle looking dessert and a roll that was the consitency of a biscuit. The other food that I ate was very reasonable. I 'm too tired and stressed to do anything else.Tomorrow is another day........Eunice Mullinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00836534199982775631noreply@blogger.com0