Sunday, December 30, 2007

Non Weight Loss Post

This picture makes me laugh. I was trying to get a shot with the boys (Parker - my sister's MinPin and Roddey - my Poodle Mix) when my parent's dog, Maggie, decided to jump on my back and join in the fun.

I love dogs. Always have and I'm sure I always will. One of my favorite smells in the entire world is puppy breath. I know it's weird but I LOVE it! I love it almost as much as I love laughing.

PS My sister always jokes that out dogs seem to mimic our personalities. For instance, Parker is much like my sister in that he's sweet, well behaved, neat and loves to snuggle. My dog is much like myself in that he's not all that well behaved, he loves meeting new people, he has wild hair, he's independent,doesn't like to be messed with when he's sleeping and he's much more playful when it's chilly outside.

PPS I love the the expression on Roddey's face. I imagine he's thinking "ummm you up there! could you please get off of me!"


Saturday, December 29, 2007

2007: The Last Weigh In

Just a quick update before we head out to lunch.

I'm back in Denton! I loved spending time with my family and friends, but it's the struggle to maintain sanity was ever present! Just teasing - my family (my mom) is wonderful just bit overzealous when it comes to serving. I don't know if it's the Mom in her or the Mexican in her but it almost felt like she NEVER stopped cooking!!

I'll tell you more about our stay later.

Current Weight: 325
Starting Weight: 372

Praise God for his NEVERENDING MERCY! I didn't have a weight gain this week!!!! I actually lost 0.8lbs! woohoo!!

Another quick note: thank you for praying for my sister! She did very well. She was sweet yet challenging. There were a number of occassions when she'd take something out of my hand (aka the yummy buttery biscuit) I swear I almost ate her hand off for taking it away from me. However, she survived and I'm beyond pleased for not gaining.


Oh, and one more thing... THANK YOU. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! for praying for me during this time. I needed it like you have no idea.

I found this verse today that I wish I had noticed earlier this week.

To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. Jude 1:24

Saturday, December 22, 2007

Calling all Prayer Peeps

Here's an email I had to send to my small group girls. Please read the following and pray along with them.


Hey ladies,

I'm emailing because I need y'all to go to battle for me. I've only been in Corpus 1 day and I'm already struggling with food. I sorta prepared myself mentally for this but it wasn't until about 10 minutes ago (while logging in my points for the day) that I realized that I'm way in over my head!!! I've been snacking all day. And, it won't be a surprise but I've already gone way way way over my allotted points for the day. I had a small 1.2lbs weight gain this morning during my weigh in and as y'all know any weight gain always throws my game off. So, please pray for me!! My goal is to finally reach 50lbs before Jan. 1st. I will do my part and continue to seek the Lords face for strength and power but I need an extra measure of support so I'm begging y'all to please lift me up. I know that truly God is behind this because anytime before this I would've never asked for help in this struggle...also pray for Margarita. Pray that she'll have the courage to confront my sin issues in regards to overeating or bored eating or whatever types of eating I do to get way or soothe and pray that I will wholehearted respond in humility. I soooo badly want these few pounds but more than weight loss I want freedom. Many of you share in this struggle with me but maybe not to this extreme so know that I am praying for y'all too. I love and miss you all.

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

No more head games....I'm back in the game!!

After a long 3 weeks I feel like I'm finally back in the game!! Saturday's weigh in went well to say the very least! I'm down another 6.6lbs!

Total weight Loss: 45 lbs!
Current Weight: 327 lbs
I can hardly believe that I started at 372 lbs.

During out morning workout my trainer says
Mike: "Hey Marce, you know you're 5 lbs away from 50lbs!"

Me: I say nothing but give him a satisfied smile while trying to keep my feet keep my feet on the treadmill.

Mike: "and 50 lbs is half way to what?!"

ME: I burst out with childish enthusiasm "100!!!"

Now I know y'all know that I can add/subtract but seriously............ 50lbs is half way to 100lbs! I can't believe how much my life has changed in the past 4 months. I'm excited to see what the next 4 months turn out. Keep praying!!!

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

No Post Update

I know I haven't posted in a good while. I've been rather blah! lately. I had a 2.6lbs weight gain before Thanksgiving. I took "control" and withheld way to many points, worked out extra hard and to my surprise I gained weight! So, uncool and totally not fair. Anyhow, during the week of Thanksgiving I did lose 1 lbs. I'm not done yet. I hope to do much better this week.

So, other than weight gain and loss I've been OK.... Working out with Mike is still hardcore. He pushed me way to hard this morning in the gym. I was almost starting to freak out about it too. I seriously thought that if he laid a finger on my shoulders during one my squat holds that I would mostly likely buckle under the pressure and strain - I was THAT tired!

I've cried more in these last couple of days than I've cried in so long. I'm currently going through this program at church called Recovery at the Village and it sucks! sucks! sucks! in a good way.

I'll give more details later. I just can't muster up the energy to do it now. Sorry for the delay in posts. I'll stay on top it and please forgive my lack of enthusiasm right now. I'm working through things.

Thank you for reading and praying.

Monday, November 12, 2007

10% Goal

Victory tastes so sweet - even if it only comes in 10% increments. We (my trainer and I) finally reached our first goal!!! 10% of my starting weight was 37lbs. I missed it last week with a small weight gain of 1.2lbs. That 1.2lbs really took me for a surprise but I wasn't crushed as I was during my first weight gain. Thinking about it now I'm glad for that small weight gain because it continues to put this life transformation in perspective. I needed that small wake up call to step up my game. Soooooo, after our work out on Saturday morning Sir Chadwick (aka the trainer) gently reminded me that if we didnt get goal this week that we'd still have another week to tackle it. I left the gym hopeful that I did well this week. Nutrition was good. Exercise was hard. My hopes were high.

Weight Watchers: I was a bit nervous (can't explain why) but I ran in and was surprised to find that there wasn't a line. So, i checked in, took off my shoes, laid my things on the counter and waited for my invitation to step on the scale. So, the "weigher" (not sure what to call them) says "Hi, Marcy. Flex or Core?" I say "Flex" (FYI those are the weight watcher plan options - I do flex because it's easier for me to count my points) So, I step on the scale. I feel like I'm standing up there for an eternity. She says "sorry there's a problem with our system - it's so slow". NO joke! Anyhow, they've learned by now that I prefer them not to tell me how I've done because I like reading it for myself. I guess she either didn't remember or couldn't contain herself because she says "You've lost 5.8lbs! and you've reached GOAL!" I was elated! Elated to the point that I leaned over, laid my head on the counter, said a quick praise to our Father, and naturally got teary eyed and choked up. That reaction wouldn't be me otherwise, would it?! All that to say...I've not only reached my 37lb goal but I"ve surpassed it by an additional 2lbs! 39lbs total! wooohooo!!! I couldn't wait to tell Sir Chadwick!!

I called everyone! My sister, Donna Burke, my parents, Bianca, Sara, Diane, Britt, Robin, Brian...I couldn't talk fast enough!

So, when I finally got a hold of Mike he asks "So, how did you do at weight watchers?"

I tried to be so cool so I said in the most pathetic and pitiful voice I couldn't muster "oh, i didn't do that well. I gained 8lbs"

He shouts back "NO YOU DIDN'T!!"

I screamed "I KNOW!! WE GOT GOAL! I'VE LOST 39LBS!!!"

He was happy. I was happy. We were happy! I almost burst! I dont think I've ever heard him more exactly and he only said "that's GREAT, Marcy! I'm so proud of you!" I'll take what I can get from the man!

He later said "Oh, and don't ever try to be funny and tell me you gained 8lbs. I was already planning on starting two-a-days!"

Can you imagine? Two-a-days?!?! Are you serious?! I'd rather chew of my big toe than step into the gym more than once a day. Wow, talk about serious motivation to keep myself from going nuts on a pizza or whatever it is that i'm craving! NO THANK YOU!

Anyhow, I'm pumped! Totally pumped! Only 11lbs from 50lbs! I can't believe how great this feels. I've never felt this sort of accomplishment. Never Ever! I have a million things I'd love to post but that'll have to wait.

Thanks again and again for all your prayers, encouragements and compliments!!! I love you all!

Stayed tuned for my next post "Busted Up in a New Pair of Jeans"

Sunday, October 28, 2007

Costume Party

 

 

 

 


Our small group girls hosted a costume party this weekend. As to be imagined we had so much fun! I went as a Roman "chic". My costume was pretty easy to put together (with the help of Sara and her mother) but it made it super hard to dance. I nearly tripped a million times through the night.

Here are just a few pictures of Saturday night.
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Weight Loss Update

After an early morning workout with my trainer I headed over to Weight Watcher's. I expected/hoped for a 5lbs weight loss and I was certainly surprised! Low and behold it was 8.2lbs!!!! I'm so close to my 10% goal! Just a few more pounds and I'm there!

Total Weight Loss: 34.4lbs
Current Weight: 337.6lbs

Saturday, October 27, 2007

Recent Encouragement! (looooong post)

Should've posted this on Wednesday....

Got to the gym today and found Mike (trainer) sitting out in one of the park benches eating his lunch. It was certainly a beautiful day. The air was crisp and the sun was shining. The wind was gentle yet firm - hard to explain. Headed in the gym to warm up but ended up having to make a pit stop in the ladies room. I know TMI! And, As I walked out of the ladies room I noticed Mike sitting in the waiting area for me. Embarrassing. I hope he wasn't waiting for me for a long while cause I was "occupied". We bypass the treadmills and head straight for the great outdoors. Of all the days to walk outside today was the perfect day!

He naturally sets the pace. We held to basic conversations about people we know, trash talking each other, and simple questions about each others likes and dislikes. As we near our regular turning point I notice that he continues past it. He looks back at me with a mischievous grin on his face. He likes to keep me on my toes and I like order! Monkey wrenches don't fare well in my life so I try to keep everything in my control. However, I've gotten to a point in our workouts where I trust him. I think he's got a good idea of my limitations and strength, maybe more so than I give him credit for. As we approach the end of our first leg, literally it was the end because the sidewalk ended, we turn around and he claps his hands and says "ok, now it's time to get down to business". I thinking... business?! what do you call this!? I've been in the business!! Apparently I wasn't because he stepped it up and continued to step it up.

Walking got faster and faster. He corrected my body position over and over until I finally got it. Tighten your abs. Squeeze your glutes. Lean forward a bit. Sounds easy enough but it adds to a great workout. I started to find myself breathless but my legs didnt hurt. My legs didn't hurt!! I had energy! I was motivated and just when I thought we were approaching our stopping point I asked "hey do you think we could cool down outside?" He looks over his shoulder and says "what makes you think we're finished?" I should've known! When we reached our original starting point, he makes a wide turn and begins to head back out on the trail. I must've given him a surprised/confused look cause he just smiled and kept walking.

I followed.

The pace was slightly slower but still brisk. I'm good. My breathing is starting to level out and still no pain anywhere. We walk alittle less than half of the way back and he tells me to take a quick break. The spot that he chose was perfect because it was under two trees that provided the perfect amount of shade. He asks how I felt. As I thought about his question I couldn't quite think of the words to describe how I was feeling other than to say "I feel great. Or Say, it's like wow! Or cool!" Because I felt all those things all at the same time. My limbs felt heavy yet my body felt energized and I could swear there was this weird buzzing in my body. The wind pushed past us just enough to cool us down without freezing us out.

As the break ended he said "Ok, push yourself hard. Pound it out. Just pound it out. Yell or make noise if you have." I had no idea what he was talking about. "Pound it out?" What does that mean? "Yell it out?" I was confused and concerned. Just how painful was this last leg going to be? Let me just tell you... It was hard! AND It was satisfying! I couldn't have gone any faster without jogging. He made some joke about running sprints and I told him that he if could get me to run and run well that I'd do just about anything for him. and i mean it! I would! I've always wanted to run. The last time I ran was when I was 12. My family was in Mexico and my siblings and I were at some park in downtown Merida. I don't know why we were running but we ran so hard that my legs went numb. It was exhilarating. I've missed it for so many years. So, if Mike can help me to run again I pretty much will do anything within my power for him.

I don't know how long it took us to finish but I do know that the last 5 minutes were hard. So hard!! He pushed me the entire way by encouraging me to pound harder, walk faster, continue my pace and not fall behind, not to give up. He clapped for me. And, I felt like I was accomplishing something great. When I reached my finish line he guided me through this empty parking lot adjacent to a park. Our pace slowly slowed and my breathing settled. I can't remember what we talked about because my insides were screaming GLORY! I wanted to throw my hands up in the air and worship my Lord. I wanted to walk over this grassy area and fall on my face. Our Father felt so real to me at the moment and all I could do was walk in silence. The forming lump in my throat was making it hard for me to breathe. All I could do was smile to myself. Gratitude. Appreciation. Overwhelming joy. I wondered why our God and Father would be so faithful to me. Mike is faithful to our Lord by serving me so diligently and My Lord is so faithful to me... faithful to me?!?!! A girl who's so incredibly unfaithful, selfish, jealous, envious, and unappreciative. Why Lord?! Why would you love me so much?

I briefly shared my last thought with Mike and he suggested that we head over to a park bench to talk. The entire way to the bench I had to keep myself from crying. Crying out in mercy and overwhelming joy for my Father. When we got to the bench and seated ourselves I asked for a moment. After a quick mental praise we started talking. He again praised me for my hardworking efforts. Asked me how I felt physically, & mentally. I could hardly speak without crying. I hate that about myself. I'm so sentimental! I love that I can openly praise our Lord in front of him without being shy or worried that he'll think I'm nuts- he's a believer too by the way. After I shared how I felt, I asked him something that's been on my mind for so long. I wanted to know why he pours so much time into me. Why he gets up so early in the morning to meet me at the gym. Why?! It doesnt make sense to me! It really doesnt make sense to me because that form of service is so unreal. I know service. I serve. I love my girls but it would be hard for me to get up on my days off to meet them at the gym but Mike lays it out, he puts it all out there for the Lord. Humbling. Yes, humbling is the only thing that comes to mind.

He said that he does it because I inspire him. He says that I make it easy for him to get up in the morning because he knows how hard I work. and how dedicated I am. As a trainer he couldnt ask for more. Also, says that I'm fun to hang out with. I dont really remember what else he said because my head was swimming. If only he knew I worked so because he motivates me to work hard. If only he knew that because I know how much time and effort he puts into training me causes me to make better choices when I eat or workout alone. Because of the accountability that he provides I love and respect him enough to not let him down. God, yet again, orchestrated a perfect partnership. So, I shared my heart with him and told him pretty much everything I just fore mentioned. His response: "good then I'll just work harder!" :)

God's timing is always perfect. God's timing is ALWAYS perfect! I'm leaving my first 30 years behind me now. I look forward to freedom. I look forward to the day of full restoration. I look forward to loving and serving our Lord completely.


"Who among the gods is like you, O LORD ? Who is like you— majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders? Exodus 15:11

Monday, October 22, 2007

WOW!!!!

 


:) Amazing, huh?!??! Last I checked I was at a total of 26.2lbs weight loss and I'm sure it's more than that now...Thanks you for all your support and PRAYERS!!!
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My Birthday Party

Hello Beautiful Birthday Skirt!!
 

My super Chica, DANE!!
 

AWWWW RENATTA!!!
 



These are just a few images from the party. I'll upload all the images to shutterfly and post the link later.
Thanks for stopping by!!!

PS Congrats Robin and Hwa with your recent engagement!! woohoo!!
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Thursday, October 18, 2007

Early 30...

I know. I know. It's been a while! So much has happened since my last post. For starters I had my wisdom teeth extracted. So not fun! Eating was different during that time. Pre-extraction I didnt have any appetite and post-extraction I could hardly control myself! I didnt work out much during that time either. However, this last week I've recovered well and I'm back in the saddle.

Working out
Yes. Yes. Yes....I'm still working out! I have to totally attribute this God. Had he not sent me a trainer in the form of Sir Chadwick (the trainer) this would not be happening. It's a nice balance because my only part in this current adventure is obedience. I do count my points, I eat everything I want, I log it online, and I'm fine. However, because I know that my trainer pours so much time and energy into meeting me at the gym so early in the morning and because he's so faithful in serving our Lord it motivates me to continue working hard. I can't exactly go totally crazy when it comes to food because if I completely cave in that area I only know that allllll the time, sweat, grunts, whimpers of pain, and exasperation is all for nothing. This is accountability as I've never experienced. I can see God's hand in and all over this.... Thank you Lord for your faithfulness!

Life
Yesterday I turned 30. The day before my birth I sorta had a melt down. I was so not ok with turning 30. However, I'm alive by God's grace and that puts it all in perspective! So, I'm having a big party on Saturday so be sure to wait to loads of pictures.

Thanks for hanging in there with me...Not exactly sure what to post about so what do you wanna read?

Oh, and total weight loss is 25lbs!! woohoo!

Thursday, October 4, 2007

Ok, so I've bounced back!

I should've posted this sooner but I've been sorta lazy. Last Saturday went into Weight Watchers fully expecting the worst (how sad is that?) and I came out totally surprised! I lost another 5lbs! So, that officially brings me to a total weight loss of 22.4lbs! And would you believe that I'm FINALLY under 350lbs!?!?!?! It's exciting to say the least. I'm only 14.6lbs away from my 10% goal.

Working out has gone surprisingly well. I'm not in anyway saying that it's easy - cause it's not!! But, I am saying that it's getting better. I'm more comfortable in the gym and feeling less self conscious. We've walked a few times out on the North Lakes trail and that too has gotten easier. I feel better. I really do! We're starting on month 3 and I can't wait to see where I stand when I turn 30 yrs later this month.

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Words of Encouragment from way back...

I had to pull out some old emails this week. Emails that I've saved for this very week. I'll on occassion post these emails on here for us to read. I have to remind myself daily that this victory is not only my own but ours. Thank you for your prayers.


Marcy, I love you. This alone shows how mature your
spiritual walk has grown. I've learned that when you
desire God to do something extraordinary in your life,
you must do something out of the ordinary. I feel this
is what you have done. I have no doubt that you will
reach your goals. Don't allow doubt to set and
remember that there is nothing impossible with GOD!
(Luke 1:37). I love you Brian




Marcy-

You know you are my girl! I love you so much and am so overwhelmingly proud of this HUGE STEP that you are taking in your life. Know that I will be behind you 110% and won't let you give up after 2 wks, 5 wks, or whatever. Bottom line: I am here for you ALWAYS!

love ya chica!

Daenna :)

Monday, September 24, 2007

It happened.....

My first non weight loss week..... I gained 1.4lbs. For the past 7 weeks I've been telling myself "it's going to happen and when it does it'll be ok..." well, it happened and I wasn't ok. I left weight watchers sorta disappointed but mostly surprised. I fully expected to lose at least 2lbs this week. I did have a bunch of lunch meetings and dinner meetings but I was mostly careful of what I ate. I felt proud that I've been making better food choices. My diet isn't perfect but it's better - much better than it used to be. We also worked extra hard this week in the gym. I was certain of weight loss. I guess my body has other plans.

It certainly took me on a downward spiral to tears - lots of them! I met with my trainer shortly after my weigh in and I blurted out the news and his reaction or rather non-reaction just messed me up. I thought he was disappointed in me and it hurt my feelings. I know he's been working just as hard as I have been and I didn't want him to feel like his hard work and effort was all for not. To make matters worse he changed our routine and had me hit the walking trail outside the gym. I"m currently up to 2.8 on the treadmill for a solid 30-40+ minutes but for some reason walking out the concrete was brutal! My legs hurts, my feet hurt, the lump in my throat kept me from being able to fully breath - it was awful. We were both quiet and pensive and the mood just set my emotions on edge.

Long story short I spent a good deal of the afternoon in prayer. I needed comfort and I went straight to the floor. I love that we can come to our Father in any and every condition. I love that He loves us despite all our shortcomings. Maybe I needed to be knocked down a notch or two. Maybe I was getting cocky. Maybe I stopped leaning on the Lord. Only He knows where my heart was headed. I did speak with my trainer later that day and he was reassuring and encouraging.

I also learned a little more about my friends during this week too. When I went to those that are holding me accountable during this this time some were understanding and quick to encourage me to press on toward my goal while others gave me the *tsk tsk tsk* look that truly made me feel ashamed. Now I know....

This is a picture I saw the night before my weigh in and for the first time I noticed. I noticed my face is getting smaller and so is my upper body. I even woke up the morning of weigh in totally pumped. I couldn't wait to see what progress I had made during the week.... Over all I know 1.4lbs isn't such a big deal (especially for a woman) I'm ready this week and I plan on working harder. Thanks for all your comments.
Here's a picture of myself and Lucy (a friend's dog)
 

I was laughing so hard because Lucy (the lab) was sniffing Parker's "stuff" and he had a minor moment of panic - poor boy didnt know what was happening. I know I have a sick sense of humor!
 
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Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Where did those come from?


Can I just say that I'm so incredibly proud of myself! It's the good kinda pride! I can't believe that I'm rolling into week 7 and I'm still working out and eating right. My body is changing. I can see visible signs of change and it's encouraging to say the least. Praise God!

HOWEVER!!!!!! Where did these leg, shoulder, side back things - whatever their called lats or something...where did they come from?! All I can say is OUCH!! I can hardly bush my hair! So, for those of you that see me on weekly basis please extend an extra measure of grace if/when you see me and my wild hair looking tore up! I can't reach my head sometimes!

Monday, September 17, 2007

18.8, baby!!

Last week was different...sorta felt like I didnt work hard enough. Things seems way to easy. Weight watchers went well to say the least! Lost 4 more pounds!
Crazy, huh?!

Total Weight Loss: 18.8lbs!
Current Weight: I can't even keep track anymore!

Praise God that it's because He's been so faithful that I've finally been able to see some victory!

Thursday, September 13, 2007

New Trick!

I'm not exactly sure what to post today but I want to keep my fellow peeps in the loop. Exercise is working well. My trainer was meeting with me 6 days a week before school started up again. Our schedule is still kinda in the works but I'm still at the gym 6 days a week. On the days that he's not working out with me I'm usually just doing cardio. I found a new trick that seems to help the time go by... READING! Believe it or not I don't even get motion sickness! I'm currently reading Breaking Free by Beth Moore and I'll just sit the book on the book stand and start my walk. Time really seems to fly by when my mind is occupied.

Mental war - I have to admit that my mind is weak. I often lose the battle in my mind before I ever even get my foot out the door. I wish desperately for this to be different. I'm glad that I have something to occupy my mental space now as I truck away on the treadmill. I'm currently walking at a 2.6 pace for a solid 30+ plus minutes!! It might not sound like much but when this started out about 5 weeks ago I was walking at a 1.2! God is good all the time!

Pray blessing for my trainer. He's works so hard and I'm thankful for all his assistance. Also, pray blessings and protection for all the people that currently lift me up on a daily basis. Because, victory and freedom from this stronghold is presently active I've seen attacks on so many of those I love dearly who are faithful to war with me.

Current Weight: 357.2lbs
Total Weight Loss: 14.8lbs

Thursday, September 6, 2007

 
 
 
 

My mini vacation to Seattle was great fun! I got see some of my old friends, eat some great food and pick my favorite- blackberries. As to be expected the weather was outstanding! I love the pacific northwest! This last picture is of myself and my little buddy, Marques.

Good news! I found a wieght watchers there in the northgate area and found out that I lost 3lbs!! woohoo! I made it a point to workout in the hotels after our long drives and I had every intention of doing the same once I got to Seattle. However................. I worked out very little and ate a mucho mucho! Monday and Tuesday were my worst days. Yesterday was a new day and I got back on track. We'll see how this saturday goes.
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Thursday, August 30, 2007

Denton to Twin Falls

 
 
 

Driving to Seattle with my friend, Peggy. Things are going well. The landscape is beautiful. Wyoming sucked! It felt like it NEVER ENDED!!! However, once we got into Utah it was pie. We rolled on through - easy breezy. You'll be happy to know that I've made a strict effort to make better food choices AND i've worked out from both hotels since we've started traveling. It takes all the energy I can muster just to get down to the fitness center. Once I'm on the treadmill I hit it hard for about 30 minutes. Today was the first day that I felt like this journey felt hopeless. I know it's a lie. Keep praying. Working out alone isnt any fun and it's hard but I can't rely on my trainer forever..... it's all good. It's sleepy time.
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Monday, August 27, 2007

Another 5 lbs!


Good news....I've lost another 5 pounds! I expected at least a 1 or 2lbs weight loss but as to be imagined 5lbs was an added bonus. So far it's been relatively easy in the area of making better food choices and exercise. I'm starting week four and this is when I usually quit. I'll need extra pray support past this point.

This is a recent picture of some of the girls in my small group after a night of Cheesecake Factory and Dave & Busters.

Current Weight: 360.4
Total Weight Loss: 11.6

Friday, August 24, 2007

Say No to PiYO!


During my workout with Mike on Thursday morning I told him I was going to join a friend for the 6:45pm PiYo class at Northlaks. His initial reaction - raised eyebrows.

Lemme tell you.....Say No to PiYo! As I mentioned yesterday I knew that inappropriate laughter was going to be an issue and it certainly was for the first 5 minutes. I conquered that battle once I couldn't breath. Breathing is quite important to me. The class started out well, we sat on some old dirty mats, removed our shoes, and started stretching. I could do all that with no problem. Score!

Our instructor then pushed play on her little pink cd player and I swear it sounded like screeching tires, tortured crickets with a hint of a flat bagpipe as a subtle, yet not so subtle, undertone. Moving forward - the we roll onto all fours. I'm so glad that no one was behind me...that would've been sooooo awkward. I'm able to keep up with most of the exercises until she says "downward dog". I was like, what's a downward dog? It should've been called upward rear! It looked easy enough....and i'm sure it would've been had I not been wearing socks!! I couldn't keep my feet from sliding off the mat or my hands from getting sweaty. Needless to say I was in the middle of a losing battled headed straight for a face full of floormat.

Overall, I had an ok time. I'm not exactly sure where Yoga fits with our Christian beliefs but I meditated on the things of the Lord. I doubt I'll be returning. The last image I have in my head are the gymnasium lights. There are 15 lights total on half of the gym, 5 rows of yellow columns, and 1 basketball hoop, and I think they should consider a fresh coat of paint. I was able to take inventory in while we "letting our bodies heal" followed by "loving ourselves into great balance" what does that mean?!?! All is well. I had a great ab workout and some good laughs.

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Signs of Improvement

I'm wrapping up week 3 and I'm starting to see changes in my body. Muscles!! I have muscles in my arms, chest and legs! My heart is so much stronger. I'm losing weight and the best part is learning to trust, more completely, the Lord and his servants. There are mornings that I would love to lay in bed and sleep. There are mornings that I feel disgusting. Yet, through it all He helps me out of bed and to the gym. I'm so thankful afterward the feeling of accomplishment is unbeatable and so new to this little life of mine.

I've agreed to take a PiYo class with a good friend, Dane, this evening. I don't know what I was thinking when I said "Sure, that sounds like fun!"
Really?! I just worked out this morning! I just hope to God that she and I don't disrupt the entire class. I think I'm gonna make her sit across the room from me otherwise we'll be a pair of laughing hyenas. Why is inappropriate laughter so much fun?! I don't get it!

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

I met Shawn McDonald


Here I Am by Shawn McDonald
I lay myself at your feet asking you.. wont you meet me -
Can not do it on my own -
Can not do it all alone-
Here I am Lord tonight with my arms opened wide -
Wont you come inside.


I love this song. It's one of those songs that helps me get into "the zone". My zone is where/when I feel like I have direct communication with the Lord. When my prayers cease to feel as if they're bouncing off the walls or when my mind finally rests and settles into concentration - the zone.

I worked out alone on Saturday. I had to push myself to stay on the treadmill. I was striving for 45 minutes and somewhere about 19 minutes I started to have a minor freak out. Around 23 minutes I thought - If I can only get to 30 minutes I'll be fine. Before I knew it I was at 35 minutes...it was then that I realized I had it in the bag. I pushed myself for 5 more minutes then cooled down for the other 5. Walking out of the gym on Saturday was priceless. I did it! Proud?! You best bet your buns I was proud. Praise the Lord for his faithfulness! Truly, I learned that when I'm weak He is strong.

Current Weight: 365.4 lbs
Total Weight Loss: 6.6 lbs

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Parents are in town...

Howdy! I've recently heard that I need to post new posts. So, I'm posting! As many of you know my parents are in town this week. I do have to admit that I was a bit concerned about food. I know it sounds simple enough but I'm MEXICAN AMERICAN and our love languages are based on serving our family, friends and food. We love mucho, talk mucho, and eat MUCHO!! I've had to be really creative with my food this week. Balancing between eating healthy and not hurting my mom's feelings by refusing to eat what she's served me has been a bit of a challenge. But, despite the challenge I do think I've done pretty well. At best I'll maintain my weight this week. God's really just taken this time to show me limitations. I've always lead a life that screamed past Go and now I have to read all the warning signs and actually slow down when I see a yellow light.

Oddly enough I don't feel bad about how I've lived this week. I'm proud of myself. Over eating is sin in my life and I've come to realize that it's become such a habitual sin that I've become totally numb and blind to it. I wonder how it's affected my relationship with the Lord. I wonder what he'll continue to show me through this process.

Mike and I are still working out. I can feel myself getting so much stronger and my clothes is starting to fit a little differently. Exciting, huh?!?!

I love each you! I love each comment that is posted and each email that is sent. Please, know that this is not only my victory but ours. You are my cloud of witnesses so hold me accountable in a loving and tender way.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1

Saturday, August 11, 2007

My buns are burnin'

Yesterday’s work out was hard!!! We did our regular 30 minute cardio then Mike (trainer) usually takes me to one of the extra rooms and we’ll do this routine that includes LOTS of side steps, med balls and as of Thursday stretchy bands. When we were told that the rooms were occupied I instantly thought “ok, great we’ll cut it short today!” Not so much… Mike immediately turned and opened the door to the weight room. I then thought he’ll probably go in and grab a ball or stretchy band and we’ll use one of the long hallways. Wrong again! He held the door open and I slowly realized that he was waiting for me. Duh! I should’ve known the boy had a plan B. I do have to admit that I was a bit hesitant about going in there. I can’t exactly explain why but, believe it or not I was a little shy. I know shy doesn’t exactly describe my personality and it does happen on occasion and yesterday was one of those rare occasions.

So, I followed closely behind him. He stopped and reached for one of those stepping block deals. I thought surely he’s just moving it out of the way to grab whatever was behind it…yet again, I WAS WRONG. I also noticed that he grabbed the building blocks that make the step deal higher – take note that I don’t exactly know the proper terms for these particular pieces of equipment. So, follow along as best as you can. He then precedes to leads me to one corner of the gym. I stand back and let him step up his torture devices. When he’s done he turns around and I notice that he’s rather pleased with himself. I could almost swear that he looks forward to seeing me squirm. He energetically claps his hands and says “ok, we we’re going to do some circuit training today.” I was like “what?”

So, long long long long story short it starts off like this:

20 step ups on left leg, leaning forward slightly, squeezing abs and gluts
20 step ups on right leg – same info as above
5 bonus steps per legs…yeah, these were deliciously painful!
Followed by wall push ups
Then the dreaded med ball
Lastly, the stretchy band with little squats

That was just round one. I think we did 3 sets of the entire routine I can’t remember because it’s become a mental block and I’m trying to bury it way deep. On the very very very last set he ended with the med ball. Standing with my feet hip length apart, leaning forward, holding the 4,000 lbs med ball over my head, squatting slightly, hold in my abs, and trying to breath he says to me “ok, Marce you’re doing great! Now don’t forget to squeeze your gluts”. I laugh as I write this because at the time it wasn’t so funny but now it’s almost hysterical. He’s asking me to squeeze my gluts!! Is he serious?!?! I had NO CONTROL of my gluts. My entire body was shaking. When I say I couldn’t, I really really mean that I couldn’t!! I didn’t know what was going on. It’s so funny. I’m trying. I’m really trying but it was taking all I had within me just to keep the ball over my head, to keep my legs from buckling and to breath. It was the longest 30 seconds I’ve ever felt. I don’t even know if my brain even knew where to locate my buns. He counts down and says, “ok, great job!! We’re done” I was still in the same stance. I couldn’t get up. I felt like a sack of bones. It wasn’t until he came over and took the med ball that I was able to push up and drop my arms down to my waist. Good stuff.

As we were walking out I felt so good! I’m not sure if it was the endorphins kicking in but I could almost breathe deeper and walk faster. However, I still couldn’t feel my buns.  I hope y’all enjoyed reading this. If you ever want a reenactment…….. don’t ask!

Current Weight: 366.6lbs :)
Lost: 5.4lbs

Tuesday, August 7, 2007

It's what you do on the tough days that matters most...

6AM: I had a hard time waking up this morning and an even harder time getting to the gym. I secretly wished Mike would call and say he couldn't make it. *Evil grin* However, that didn't happen....

6:15AM: Praying in the car "Father, today, yup today I really need you to help me. Help me to not do this by my will nor by my might but by Your power. Teach me about that today, Lord."

6:30AM: On the treadmill.
Mike asks "On a scale of 1-10, 10 being the most energetic, how do you feel this morning?" My answer: 4. I feel like a 4 maybe a 5. No, it's more like a 3. Yeah, a 3 sounds good." He just laughs at me. Didn't take any pity on me whatsoever! He then proceeds to say "it's what you do on the tough days that matters most" I took that to heart. He was right.

7:20AM: Sweating like a slick pig in a smoke house and feeling great!!! Our session is over and done with!! Woohoo! What a difference an hour makes, right? I feel so good. Stronger. Empowered. Thankful that yet again we made it through one more day.

5:20PM: I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I'm praying today for those days in the near future when I won't look forward to working out; when I don't want to glorify the Lord; when I can't muster the strength to live and breath and laugh for him. I'm praying and remembering for those days when I can't remember why this started...it's not about me it's about His will, His glory, His purpose, His name.

"I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word." Psalm 138:2


Thank you for all your support and prayers.

Saturday, August 4, 2007

I sat at the humble pie buffet today

Mike and I finished our second session today and for some reason I start crying! I don't even know what I was crying about.A huge mix of emotions surged all at once and it brought an onslaught of tears. I was scared of letting everyone down. I was proud of myself for getting through this set. I was humbled that he was so supportive. At one time, when things were getting rough for me, I looked over at him and said "I need you to pray for me right now" and he nodded his head and was on it! I was even more humbled by the fact that I'm not in this alone. I really not! This is as much your victory as it is mine. Thank you for all your emails. I know it's just the beginning...help me get through the next 4 weeks

After working out I went to my first Weight Watchers meeting. You won't be surprised to hear that my meeting leader is a BELIEVER! Her name is Judy. Yet again our Father has provided!

Here is my statement of FAITH!
God is who He says He is.
God can do what He says He can do.
I am who God says I am.
I can do all things through Christ.
God's word is alive and active in me.


Current Weight: 372

Friday, August 3, 2007

Joined Weight Watchers

So, I took the plunge. I joined Weight Watchers today. I've used this system before and it really worked for the entire two weeks I was on it. Actually, it was more like 5 weeks and I did lose about 16 lbs. I don't have much of a track record for longevity so my goal is to get through today.

Since my post yesterday I can not believe the all the support I've received. Emails have flooded my inbox with the most encouraging and inspirational note. With your permission I'd love to post your emailed comments. It's humbling to see how many of you really love me and have also offered your help. So, help me by praying and praising our Lord what He's doing.

It's only day two and I continue to lean on the Lord. I can't think to far into the future because I become overwhelmed. Day by day. I'll take it one day at a time.

I have my first meeting tomorrow....

Thursday, August 2, 2007

August 2007 - The Beginning

 
"I used to ask God to help me. Then I asked if I might help Him. I ended up by asking Him to do His work through me." Hudson Taylor Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secrets

Today's August 2, 2007 and it marks the beginning of a new journey. It appears that the Lord has started raising up people from all walks of my life to help me become healthy. Donna Burke my new mentor challenged me to find someone at church that might be able to offer me assistance in the area of diet and exercise. Oddly enough I found two people! Kimberly Hughes and Mike Chadwick. Both Kim and Mike have offered their spiritual support, experience, knowledge and time. I'm humbled by their willingness to help.

"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9) This statement can not be more true to me at this very moment. I've lived years and years in defeat and it's time to seriously begin trusting in the Lord. Remind me daily that this is not about me!!

So, here's a recent picture of me taken at Rikki Tai's Birthday this past Saturday, July 28, 2007.
My current weight 374lbs and current dress/pant/everything else....size 28-30. OK, my stats are out there!
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