OK, OK, OK!!

I've been called out by a number of you this week! I will post!!

Just know that I'm not certain how to unpack all that has been given to me this week. Keep praying during this time. God is moving and molding parts of my life that I have been unwilling to surrender.

Update & Babe's

I know I haven't posted in a few days. Just know that I'm working on it! This last weekend provided quite a bit of revelations (some good and some painful). Be on the look out for A+B doesn't always = C.

I leave you with a photo from this weekend. After church a group of us went to Babe's Chicken Dinner House in Sanger, TX to celebrate meeting Mrs. Ann Chadwick (Sir Chadwick's mom).

In this photo (R to L) Kristen, Mita, Brent, Ann Chadwick, Sir Chadwick, Myself.
PS I posted this picture because Brent's facial expression is priceless!

Rude Awakening

I slept so well last night. This morning when my cell alarm went off I reached over, hit snooze and pulled it under the covers with me. Snooze was hit 4 times. When I finally decided to pull the covers off my warm body the motion of my arm movement brought an instant furrowed brow followed by a girlie grunt because my arms hurt. My shoulders hurt. My abs hurt. AND my chest muscles hurt! When I sat up and move my legs off the bed I quickly realized that my legs hurt just as much as my upper body. I don’t know what happened. Delayed response to this week’s hard workouts? I felt like I was hit by a truck – or at least that’s what I think being hit by a truck would feel like. I desperately need to soak in a hot bubble bath with lots of Epsom salt.

Great Workout!

Quick post: I had such a great time in the gym yesterday. I was moaning all day long about finishing up my second half of the two-a-day. I got home, made an AWFUL dinner (tell you more about that later), changed my socks and shoes and headed back out to the gym. I thought that I'd simply go and put in my time but I had NO intention of hittin' it hard and more importantly I did it because I didn’t want to lie to Sir Chadwick if he asked “how did you do yesterday?”

Once I slipped my foot in the boot of the Arc Trainer and started to warm up something clicked inside of me. I couldn't put my finger on it at first. Then this woman set herself up next to me and started to push it really hard. Instantly, this quick little fire was set within me. I can honestly say I worked harder during the second round than I worked during the first round! And, the best part was that Sir Chadwick wasn’t around to push me!

I also wanted to share this video. I love the drum beat, the classic guitar and the way the rhythm persuades me to move. This might be a little much for some of my white people! HAHA! JK I love all my colored friends! I could translate this song for you but it wouldnt sound as appealing in English...somethings are better said in Spanish (same goes for certain verses) because there's a richness English verbs are just missing. Praise God for a Mom that made sure we learned Spanish (except my brother, David, some how feel through the cracks on that one..he's a white boy through and through! HAHA loooooove Yooooooou DAVIN!!!)

I love that God chose to make me Latina! Adios. And Have fun dancing with the video!!!

Junk Food = lots of Junk in the Trunk!

Last week was such a bad eating week. I have to confess that I slacked off
a) I knew I wasn’t going to have to weigh in at Weight Watchers on Saturday (I was at a leadership retreat for Village small groups) therefore not accountable (Sorta).
b) Sir Chadwick was down and totally out with the stomach bug and wasn’t around to kill me
c) I was “going through stuff”.
All of those factors combined made it so easy for me to be a little less hardcore. I ate so much candy! Why is it that we feel less guilty for eating Fun Size candy as opposed to real size candy?! I swear I ended up eating enough fun size snickers, babyruth, and skittles to make up for 3 real size bars if not more!!

FYI Food does make a difference!!!!!!! What you put into your body effects the way your body operates! For instance, sugar makes me sleepy, lazy, lethargic, and down right sloppy! Carbs make me temporarily happy. Fruits and Veggies seriously make me feel better all around and almost make my insides feel clean and ready to run. I know it’s weird but it’s for real, yo! Dairy, oh how I love my dairy… well, helps in small doses. PS DRINK LOTS OF WATER!!!! Water is good. That’s all I gotta say about that!

Is food and idol? Six months ago I would’ve said “yeah right! No freakin’ way!!!!” and I would’ve meant it with all my heart too. Today, I know that I struggle with putting food (the source which temporarily removes my pain and numbs my thoughts) on God’s throne.

Where do you run when you need to be instantly released from a hard moment?

Valentine: Girlie Style

This is me dumping out some Valentine Goodies on the floor of my dear friend, Dane's apartment. I hadn't sat before that much chocolate in such a long time, if ever! I was alittle excited. **note: I'm also on the phone with Sir Chadwick...if he only knew! Actually, he must've known because he called to tell me that I had to hit the gym the following day for a two-a-day. blah!


This huge kiss made for a great chocolate fondue.


Note: For those who have never "fondued" it's HOT! So, blow on your food before you dig in. **this was not taken on Valetine's night, but during another fondue date night with the girls.


FYI I was sick after eating all that chocolate.

Text Msg tattle tale!

After leaving the gym yesterday I was HUUNNNGRY!!! Before hitting the gym my calorie consumption consisted of a whopping 456 calories. And, only God knows how many calories we burned during out workout. I get home and tell my sister that we’re going to have a surprise date at 9pm. I prepared a quick snack of black beans, corn and a few chives. YUMM! We head over to Sonic and (I hate to admit this) but I ordered TWO hamburgers!!! I know! I know! I was hungry! And, to my defense they were dry. No mayo, no mustard, no buttered buns. D-R-Y!

The story gets worse. .. *picture a sheepish grin here*

We head over to my second round of the date which was a movie at the dollar cinema for our second viewing of P.S. I Love You.

I still had the munchies so (y’all are going to kill me! LOL & Sir Chadwick is going to DIE! Or, rather I’ll die the next time he sees me) I got some skittles and some Peanut M&M’s and diet coke! LOL My poor sister was just watching me in shock! She hasn’t seen me go nuts like this in a LONG time! We find our seats and I immediately begin to dig into my M&M’s.

She’s still staring at me like I’ve lost my dang mind.

Then she says “Marcccce”

I’m like “What!?” as I proceed to stuff my mouth full of M&M’s. FYI I know exactly what she’s “Maarrrcccee’ing me about”

She then smoothly reaches into her purse and pulls out her phone. It was then that I notice her feverish texting. She gives me “ojo” (the evil eye) and continues to text.

Now, keep in mind that my mouth is S-T-U-F-F-E-D with M&M’s as I say “Wha arrrrrre yooooouuu doooooing?!?!” I try to keep from drooling on myself.

She looks at me and says “I’m texting Mike.”

I’m silent….. I process what she just said….. I give her the “What you talkin’ about Willis” look. Then bolt for my phone as I begin chew with all my might for fear that he’s going to catch me piggin out! LOL (ladies y’all know exactly what I’m talking about cause at time or another you’ve all been there!!!)

I then bust out my phone and start to text him. My note said something like this “hey mike, my sister’s being dumb! Don’t pay attention to her text”

I hit send and the text is gone.

I surrender my bag of M&M’s to her and say “keep these away from me”

She smiles and says “ok!” THEN STARTS TO EAT MY M&M’s!!!!!

My reaction: I gave her “ojo”.

Her reaction: She just laughed.

I later found out that her text to Sir Chadwick simply said “hey Mike, I just wanted to say Hi.”

That girl is SLICK!!!!

SISTERS!!!!!

Hope you enjoyed that one!

Valentine & PJ's (sorta)

Here are a few pictures of this weekend:

My girl, Britt, made this delicious little deal. Brownies, cool whip (which is next to nothing in point value) and chocolate pudding. Isn't it pretty?


Sara, Diane and myself. Stretching after a hard workout. =)


Here's blowing you a Valentine Kiss.


Mita, Jordyn, Myself, & Britt Britt!

Check out Idaho!

I recently received an email from a dear friend in Idaho. I wanted to share these images with y'all. It's just amazing! I doubt that many native Texans have ever seen this much snow in one place. I know I haven't!

Here's Donna's Email:
1: Our house on the right, garage straight ahead. This one was from a week ago Monday, before we got at least another foot of snow.

2: Looking down to the cabin door. We lived in the cabin for 9 months while we were building our house. (I'm glad it wasn't this winter!)

3: John shoveling around the chimney.

4: Son-in-law Mark jumping off his roof after shoveling.


That last picture is my favorite! That would be so much fun! Her Curious pup just cracks me up!!! I love, LOVE, LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE dogs!

Thanks, for sharing those photos, Donna!

How was my day, yesterday?

I'm so glad you asked! After phase one of the two-a-day I had a pounding headache! I hardly ever get headaches! I must've pushed myself way to hard. I can't figure it out.
OR!! Maybe! JUST MaYbE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it could be the lack of carbs in my diet!!!! Sir Chadwick wanted to experiment with me and asked if I'd cut back on my carb intake and increase protein. Sounds good enough, right?! I could hurt him right now! I feel "off". I can't wait for reverse trainer day!

This is how I feel right now!


One last thing. My doctor is a BIG fan of the Sir Chadwick. She even went as far as to say that his program was perfect for me. This whole less carbs more protein deal might just be my ticket to losing these last 18lbs, which will finally take me past the 300lbs threshold!
Pray that I don't eat my trainer! After all, he did say more protein, right?! =)

Thank You!

I never expected to get that type of response! My email has been flooded with so many heart warming messages that inspire me to continue working hard and seeking God for direction, will, and energy. I needed each and everyone one of your emails and comments. Thank you again. I'll remember to read them when I'm feeling down. I've saved each and every one!!!

On another note I have to admit that I'm totally pooped right now. Sir Chadwick, yet again, upped the anty. I started my two-a-days today. What that means is 45 minutes of cardio in the morning/lunch followed by another 35 minutes after work. Not sure how that'll play out in my everyday life...I'll try not to kill him in the mean time. :) jk

Love y'all and thanks again for stopping by and wishing me wellness!

The Moment You've all been waiting for!

As I begin this post I'm not sure what to say and as many of my close friends know... I'm hardly EVER found speechless. I can't seem to find the right words to sum up these last 6 months. It was 6 months ago to this very day that I stepped into the gym for the first with Sir Chadwick. I was nervous. I was shy. I was hesitant to say the least and I didn't know what to think of him. It was 6 months ago YESTERDAY that I started this blog. So, much has changed in 6 months. In 6 months I've dropped from a size 30/32 pant/dress size to a 26/28, my shirts have gone from a 26/28 to (on a good day) 18/20 and I've lost a bunch of weight! :) More than those stats I've had an opportunity to see God work. He's been faithful. He's been patient. He's been loving. And, He's been ever present in your prayers and most evident in my trainer, Mike Chadwick. I now know that it's not just sheer discipline or love for kinesiology that keeps him serving but it's the love of Christ that abides in his heart. It's that same love that abides in each of you to keep praying and remembering me. Thank you. Thank you for all your well wishes, comments, compliments, encouragements, and prayers! Also, a super duper special thanks to my small group girls! I love you all a buncha super lot! Thank you. I love you!


This picture was taken right before Sir Chadwick and I started working out. It was hot, humid and icky that day but we were all there to celebrate our great friend, Rikki Tai!

 

This was me yesterday.

 

Also taken at Rikki Tai's party right before Amber and Margarita fell in the lake! Good times! GREAT laughs! Wonderful Memories!

 

Yesterday!

 

So, that's what a 53.4lbs weight loss looks like in 6 months! PRAISE JESUS!!!!

Update on Dr. Visit

Hey Y'all,

First of all let me apologize for not posting this information on Friday. This weekend just got away from me.

So, I went to the doctor on Friday for my 6 month evaluation. Here are the results:

August 1st 2007
Weight: 374 lbs
Blood Pressure: 138/80

February 1st 2008
Weight: 300 lbs
Blood Pressure: 130/70

Before y'all start freaking out about the weight loss results just know that I'm pretty dang sure the scale in the office was off. It would've been a sweet surprise to find that I'd lost 18lbs over a the duration of last week, but that didn't happen. I did, however, lose another .8lbs! Oh, and I don't have any of the lab work back yet. I'll let you know how that goes.

Pre & Post 6 month pictures are coming soon!

I'm feeling better

I think I'm finally in the clear. Stomach issues are somewhat under control now. I've only been in the gym twice this week, both of which were for cardio. Tonight we work on muscles. I'll let you know how that goes...

On another note: spiritual muscles feel sprained! God's been bringing to light some pretty serious heart issues such as idolatry, jealousy, and "other" things. I'll ellaborate when it becomes more clear. Until then let us continue to press on.


2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

Stomach Bug

Yesterday morning I woke up feeling kinda "off". Met Sir Chadwick at the gym and completed a semi normal cardio routine. I jokingly call him Merciless Mike when he's being hardcore but yesterday he was pure mercy and even let me off the hook with a semi medium easy routine. I'm thankful too cause I was feeling pretty crappy. I left the gym, headed to the office and found myself almost gagging through my breakfast (cottage cheese and peaches). I ended up leaving the office around 9:30am and heading home. I felt like I was going to be really sick there and decided to save face and hurl at home. Anyhow, I was sick for the rest of the day.

Oh, and when I got home I noticed that my sister's car was still in driveway. She too was sick. I wonder if we ate something or just caught a little bug. I dunno, and I don't care...I just want to get to feeling better already.

Thank you to all my girls for their well wishes. And, thanks Dane for bringing me soup and a bread bowl last night that was soooooooooooooooo super sweet. I probably had a total of 4 bites and I wish I could say it was delicious but you know how food and stomach issues go....

Oh, and my friend Diane said that she'd be more than happy to come by and drop off a can of soup at my door step. That made me laugh. Thanks, D!!

It's day 2 and I'm home. I feel guilty for being home and yet I can't seem to muster the energy to stay awake.

One more thing. Sir Chadwick has given me homework. My assignment - post two pictures. One picture has to be preworking out and the other has to be a recent picture. February 3rd marks our 6 months anniversary!!! (I love that exclamation pionts make one look so excited - if you could only see my face and engery level you'd laugh your head off) So, Stayed tuned for that post!

Weight Loss Update

Starting Weight: 372 lbs
Current Weight: 319.4 lbs
Last Weigh In: -1.8 lbs
Total Weight Loss: 52.6 lbs

Tag. I'm it!

My friend, Bianca, tagged me on this little deal. So, here are my answers.

1. Name one thing you do every day.
Aside from pray. I lather myself with an essential bit of Bath & Body Works cream. I love that each day I get to use a new flavor…it’s such a nice way to start my routine. I love it! I’ll share my kidney but don’t ask me to share my Bath & Body. LOL

2. Name two things you wish you could learn.
French.

I wish I’d learn to love the Lord with all my heart, mind and soul. I’m tired of being a 30% lover of Christ. I WANT MORE!! I desire to desire Him.

3. Name three things that remind you of your childhood.
Swimming Pools. I immediately think of the sounds of splashing water, people laughing, blowing bubbles under water, dunking, and back floating in the middle of pool with one around but God. Good times.

Watermelon! Nothing like a cool piece of watermelon on a blistering Corpus Christi Day!

The Beach. I love the smell of salty air.

4. Name four things you love to eat but rarely do.
FRUIT CUPS!!! It’s a South Texas thing. This cup is loaded with all kinds of goodness. Fruit cups are layered as follows: (bottom to top) watermelon, cantaloupe, honey dew, pineapple (extra pineapple for me please!), cucumbers, and coconut. Then, there’s this yummy salty/spicy/lime concoction added over the top of the fruit and it drips down onto each layer to create this incredible almost indescribable GREATNESS! My mouth is literally watering as I write this!

My daddy’s BBQ! That’s all I gotta say about that!! I love my dad. I love his BBQ more! LOL jk DAD!

My mom’s lentijas! It’s like a Mexican version to the American Chili only made with lentils and has way more meat!

The Mediterranean Kitchen! My favorite dining experience in the whole wide world!! It’s located in Bellevue, WA (my old stomping ground) and I miss it dearly!

5. Name five things or people that make you feel good.
Holding a puppy. I just love their sweet soft fur. Not to mention that I LOVE LOVE LOVE puppy breath. I don’t know why…God made me weird like that!


My sister. When I stop and think about it, I mean really think about it, God could’ve put us in two different families but he chose to put us together! She knows my heart. She makes me laugh like no other on this planet and she gets me. I moved back from Seattle because I just couldn’t imagine raising a family without her.
*just a quick snap shot of us. This picture makes me laugh so hard!


Genuine Friends. I often feel the closest to the Lord when I’m with my friends in the middle of a laughing fit, tear running down my face, and completely unable to breath. I know that many people come into our lives for a reason and sometimes for only a season but regardless of their purpose I love them.





Waterbabies!!!! Not many of you know this but my true passion is aquatics. Not just any type of aquatics but infant aquatics! Here are a few pictures from a few classes I taught in Seattle. I hope one day God will allow me to start my very own swim school. I enjoyed teaching the itty babies and after much coaxing by the aquatic director I teaching the advanced group of kids (baby grads – 1st class session for the child without the parent in the water) and I later learned that they stole my heart. I just loved teaching them the most basic principles of water and when they learned to trust me they’d do just about anything I asked. God taught me so much with these children. I pray that as an adult that I’d be more like some of the babies I was able to swim along with – fearless, no hesitations, trusting and eager to play and learn.




The last answer goes without saying….. I love that our Lord is ever faithful. Why would He willingly choose us?!

Tag five people. You’re it!
Peggy
Uyen
Kendra
Tracey
Kimbeau
Emily

Spoke to soon!

Our workout tonight was certainly NOT easy. I'm thinking that my earlier post was written prematurely. There was a brief moment where I thought Sir Chadwick must've read up on this blog and was now getting me back! I'm sad to report that he hadn't read the post - he just stepped up the routine for the fun of it! How nice of him...

Wanna hear something really sick about Sir Chadwick? The poor guy was totally exhausted when he arrived at the gym. I don't know how he keeps up with his schedule. Seriously, between classes, work, church, serving and additional clients I really felt bad that he was so tired and was still faithful to meet me after his work day. However!!! don't feel too bad because the instant sweat started to drip down my face the stinker seemed to be re-energized I'd even venture to say he was almost "perky" SICKNESS!!! totally sickness!

Here are a few pictures of some of his latest "upgrades"

These are deceivingly painful and I'm still doing the modified version (knees on the floor)


Another upgrade - He added dumbbells. Not delicious!


One would think that holding a ball over your head while squatting would be relatively simple, right?!


This particular exercise causes my thighs to shake uncontrollably. Not fun but so worth the results. He's also fond of adding dumbbells or medicine balls to this exercise. Anything to keep me on my toes, right?

Quick Update

Just a quick update. Eating well this week. Work outs are going well. I don't know if my body is getting accustomed to the routine or strain, if I'm getting stronger, or if Sir Chadwick is giving me a slight break butthe gym stuff has been less difficult this week. I'm not in any way saying it's been easy either!

This has helped soothe my heart.

But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us,not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Titus 3:4-7

Uncertain Night

It's almost 12am. I took a nap today before small group. I'm semi wired. Sitting here alone with my thoughts is not good for me. I don't have anything exciting to report but I felt like writing. Earlier today I found myself sitting in the parking lot of Mardel's Christian Book Store after just having ended a conversation with my accountilbilty partner. It's so funny how God has used her to speak truth into my life. Had her confronting and sharp words come from anyone else I'm positive my instant reaction would've resulted in verbal vomit....on my part.

Pride. Jealousy. Unbelief. Yup, those are the top three right now. I opened my Bible earlier today and it seemed like the words just washed over my eyes but never landed anywhere in my head. I couldn't absorb anything. I tried to pray but even that seemed so hard. I wonder what's happening right now. I'm afraid to dig into my heart. I secretly don't want to uncover anymore crap. It's inevitable, isn't it?

woooooohoooooooo!

I have good news! After moaning and groaning all week long. After fighting God all morning long to not weigh in. I finally decided to get my buns out of bed and over to Weight Watchers. Sir Chadwick gave me the ok to NOT weigh in and believe me I had every intention of staying in bed but the nudge woke me up. So, at 10:30am I round the stairs to Weight Watchers and open the door to face my week.

I step on the scale only find 2.6lbs less of myself!

Do you know what that means?!?!

I've lost a total of 50.8 lbs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Finally after weeks and weeks of 0.4lbs and 0.8lbs weight losses and expecting to reach a 50lbs weight loss goal by January 1st it's finally here on Saturday, January 19th! The second I heard the news I started to cry. I was so frustrated with trying so hard. I'm sure y'all could tell I was frustrated by my most recent posts. All I can say is that I'm so pleased it's finally here!

I couldn't wait to call Sir Chadwick. As I reached for my phone I noticed that my father was calling. He was able to get the first news. Earlier this week I called him in tears. One morning before work I found myself lost. Almost hopeless. I cried to my dad that I wasn't sure how I could ever be able to continue this journey and that I was afraid of letting everyone down. He instantly rebuked me, followed it with sweet words of encouragement then lead us into prayer. I'm so thankful for Godly parents.

Sir Chadwick was proud. When he answered the phone he almost sounded ready to hear good news. How could he have known? Well, I guess he must've had a good idea because he kicked my butt this week. What would I do without him? He's truly a God send.

I can't thank y'all enough for all your prayers and sweet words this week. Until the next post! Adios.

Robin’s Prediction was correct

Yesterday: Allow me to set the stage. During my lunch break I head to the gym (alone because earlier that morning I cancelled on Sir Chadwick). I know the routine well enough to know somewhat how to get along alone in the cardio room. So, I hop on the ArcTrainer. I make all the manual adjustments to the machine and get started. Oh, and because Sir Chadwick is out of the picture, for the day, I get to use my handy dandy iPod shuffle. Once I get my favorite tunes going I start pushing. The first 8-10 minutes were ok. No major sweating occurs at this time only a slight glimmer of evidence which points to the oncoming downpour. Sure enough my body starts working and the sweat starts pouring. Because Sir Chadly is nowhere in site I decide to be totally gross and NOT wipe my face of the sweat that is now literally dropping off the edge of my pudgy nose. The constant reaching for my towel, wiping and readjusting of my hand position on the machine is a distraction I don’t feel like messing with at the moment. Plus, in a sick way it was really really cool to see sweat puddle forming on the floor just below me. Ok, enough about the sweat…. I swear I get so distracted!

After a long 30 minutes on the ArcTrainer I hop off and grab the sanitizing wipes provided by the gym to clean up my sweaty mess. In the process of cleaning the machine this lady next to me is trying to start up a conversation but I’m hardly able to speak because my heart is still pounding and I can hardly breathe so she basically gets one word answers to all her questions. I bet she thought I was so rude. I actually feel awful for not talking more to her, maybe God will reintroduce me to her next time I’m in there. Anyhow, back to the story…. From the ArcTrainer I move to treadmill for an expected 15 more minutes of cardio. So, there I go to the treadmill. While waiting for the starting count down on the treadmill I get this slight tummy ach/cramp but it lower than normal so I thought “girlie stuff” must be brewing. The pain goes from slight to sharp in a matter of seconds then subsides quickly so I think I’m pretty much good to go. So, I go. Punch in 3.8 and I’m off.

Somewhere between 4-5 minutes I realize that I instantly “gotta go!” I start to panic because Sir Chadwick has drilled it in my head to never quick an exercise when your heart rate is still pretty high. I was somewhere in the 150’s when this started and I had to get down to the 130’s before I excuse myself.  haha! With all my might I’m hanging on. I’m slowly dropping the pace. I’m patiently waiting for my heart rate drop. My body is now screaming. I hope y’all understand the gravity of the situation. When this girl’s gotta go – SHE”S GOTTA GO! So, now I’m walking at a 3.0 and my heart rate is dropping but it seems like it’s taking forever!!! I’m starting to freak out and now I’m sweating. It’s not the sweat you get from working out it’s the cold sweat you get when dread begins to grip your body. AND, to make matters worse because I’m freaking out my heart rate begins to rise!!!! Imagine my confusion! So, after what seems like years I’m finally clear. Long story short……….. I made it.

2 months ago: A group of us are at the GreenHouse and my friend, Robin, asks me “hey, Marcy have you ever worked out so hard that you’ve gotten instant diarrhea?” As most of my good friends know I love a good poopie story yet sadly I didn’t know what she was talking about. My answer to her question was “ummmm, no.” Then she says "It's ok. It'll happen." Then we went on to have a glorious poopie discussion. :)

Well, now I know!!! And, can I just tell you that even in those crazy moments of my life God is still so humorous and faithful. His timing is always perfect. Just imagine. No, seriously imagine how much worse that would’ve been had Sir Chadwick been in the picture. I WOULD HAVE DIED ON THAT TREADMILL because he would’ve pushed me to the end and I wouldn’t have had the guts to say “ummm excuse me Merciless Mike I GOTTA GO!!!” He would’ve scoffed and said “get to moving maggot! This is MY HOUSE! ” Ok, I exaggerate but still….. I would’ve seriously died! ROFL!

I hope y’all enjoyed that one. For those of you who don’t know this side of me…what can I say “I’m special”!

Love you!

Up to the Mountain

My girl, Amber, sent me this song to encourage me during this season but as you'll soon find out...I was utterly moved by the video.



Thank you, Amber! I now have a lump in my throat the size of New Jersey! I love you!

Today is a new day

Instead of spending any more wasted time moaning about those things I do not currently have I’m choosing to remember….

a. Starting treadmill pace 1.5 - Current treadmill pace 3.8
b. Starting weight 372 lbs – Current weight 323.8 lbs
c. Starting size 30-32 - Current size 26-28
d. Starting accountability…next to none – Current accountability …immeasurable!
e. How do you measure the level of intensity at which we currently workout? I don’t know ….ask Mike. I’m sure he’ll be proud to boast.
f. Dependence on God…. I need a daily dose of humility to continually remind me that I’m not in control and it’s NOT about me!

Thank you for all the emails that poured into my inbox. Thank you for reminding me that I’m not alone. Thank you for pushing me through prayer and encouragement.

A super special thanks for my trainer and brother in Christ, Mike Chadwick (aka Sir Chadwick). Thank you for literally sweating it out with me. Thank you for pushing me even when I give you the evil eye. Thank you for pushing me way past my comfort zone and for believing in me. Thank you for not letting me “escape” the pain. Thank you for not letting me quit. Thank you for letting me cry – even when I don’t want to. Lastly, thank for you for praying with me.

I’m so thankful that our God would put so many Godly and faithful people in my life. I can’t even begin to express my gratitude for you all. My dear and faithful friend (Donna McMath - from Idaho) encouraged me to pick up a 50lb bag of salt and truck it around a bit to see what 50lbs feels like once it’s been off. Any other suggestions for a 50lbs pick up?! I’m gonna try it this week so I need ideas. I’ll let you know how that goes.

I don't understand

I worked extra hard this week. I measured everything that went into my body. I counted each point. I followed the plan. I refused temptation when it came my way and still today's weigh in was a total disappointment.

The feeling of being so incredibly close to your goal yet having it continue to stay just beyond your reach is such a painful/comforting reminder that we aren't in control. I have to confess that after getting the news that I only lost 0.8lbs this week my instant reaction was anger - directed toward God. I know it's a bold statement but it's honest. I was angry with him. I can't fully explain why....I was being a bratty punk.

Currently sitting at Panera Bread. When my food arrived at my table I sat before it for a few moments in total mental silence. I couldn't eat it yet my stomach was growling and my heart was aching for comfort, encouragement and repentence. I couldn't even eat without asking for forgiveness. The pride that so quickly wells up in my heart was subsided the instant I bowed my head in submission.

I can't run this race without Him. When I am weak He has promised to be strong. It's been a hard week in more ways that just weight loss.

Here's a text sent early this morning by my close friend/brutal accountability partner, Dane.

Hey friend! I just needed to tell you something this morning- even if by some chance you don't meet your goal weight today it's OKAY! God is still on His throne and LOVES YOU very much and it will still happen! So remember that today. Love ya

How could she have known? What would've motivated her to write such a text?

We all know the answer to that question....

All is well. As hard as it seems right now I know I won't quit. Thanks for stopping by today.

Spaghetti Arms

Sir Chadwick switched up the routine a bit. Any change in the routine is welcomed, yet I always have this twinge of apprehension. I always wonder “what if I can’t do this new stuff” or “Dang! What’s he’s got up his sleeve now!” My mind runs the gamut of emotions and thoughts so quickly I often forget what I’m feelings. I know women are strange that way…

We started warming up the Arc Trainer. It’s a fun little machine. I hope you picked up on the oozing sarcasm. Anyhow, we tried it a couple months ago but my body wasn’t ready for it. Apparently, now I’m ready for it… it feels like we hit that thing running on Monday. He instantly starts pushing in all these numbers to get the machine going. It asks for him for my weight and I see that the types in “325” and you know what my reaction was?!!? I started to lunge forward to say “oh wait! It’s 372.” Why in the world would I think I still weigh 372?!? Strange isn’t it? I mean it isn’t like I haven’t physically felt these past 47.4lbs dripping off my body. And, it isn’t like I haven’t reveled in each pound lost, but I still wonder what is happening in my head when my natural instinct is to say I weigh 372. Any suggestions?!

So, back to the routine….let me just tell you that it’s different. Initially I thought “wow, this isn’t that bad”……… WHATEVER!! Midway through the workout I was nasty, icky, and dripping with sweat. AND!!!! He added crunches! I knew it was just a matter of time before he incorporated those suckers! I just knew it! I’m not complaining though. The results are amazing. I feel so much better. I move better. Heck, I even look better. My face is rounding down, my upper arms are trimming/slimming, I’ve dropped at least 2 sizes and soon I’ll have to start taking my clothes to get altered because this girl isn’t buying new close until I have to.

So, Spaghetti arms…this is where the title came of this blog was birthed. I get to the office this morning and one of the guys comes over to my desk and hands me this printed email. He says “you’ve gotta read”. So, I grab the sheets from him and start reading, now mind you, I start reading the email and my arms are relaxed but firm and just a little bit away from my body, my arms start to hurt/ache so I swivel my chair around and lay my elbows on the top of my desk. I continue reading. At some point I realized that my arms continue to hurt and that for some reason I’m reading the worlds longest email ever! I can’t even focus on what I’m reading because I can’t get comfortable! Seriously, I can’t hold up 2 ,count them, 2 sheets of paper and 1 tiny staple or was it a paperclip?? – I can’t remember!! Anyhow, that’s not the point, the point is that those 2 sheets and one paperclip/staple felt like I was holding a 12lbs BABY! How sad is that!! So, hence…the spaghetti arms.

Random Info: The phase spaghetti arms came to life one summer while watching the movie Dirty Dancing on continual repeat with my siblings and cousin. Good times! Lots of living room dancing and movie quoting/singing… Oh, to be 10 again.

I'm an Emotional Eater

I took this quiz online this afternoon AND, this is what I found out about my eating habits...big surprise. :)

Most of the results weren't a total surprise because God's been working on heart in this area. Actually, "working" is putting it nicely...He's been beating the mess out of me in this area!! I can't tell you how many times I've thought about going to food to numb something I've been trying NOT to feel only to have that gentle nudge from the Holy Spirit reminding me that God was willing and waiting for me. I hate to admit this but there have been times, more often than not, that I've actively chosen to ignore that sweet call.

Emotional Eater
You use food to affect your mood. This started as a conscious way to motivate yourself when you needed it, but then it became your second nature and turned into an unconscious method of dealing with problems.

Your Eating Habits
You are familiar with sweets, such as cookies, ice cream, cakes, waffles and other carb-loaded diet killers. They somehow creep into your diet whenever you need a little bit of moral support, or when you feel frustrated, unhappy or simply bored. Therefore, those excess calories are not consumed during your regular meals, but in between.

The Solution
Emotional cravings are not always easily recognizable as such. This is especially true for people who are used to eating snacks and sweets every once in a while. In those cases, emotional eating patterns only become evident when they have already taken place. Therefore, emotional eaters should plan their meals ahead, and always have a clear idea how much they want to consume. This makes any deviations clearly recognizable and allows the user to find alternate and non-food related methods for feeling better.

Great website: http://caloriecount.about.com

Photos!

Here are just a few pictures I wanted to share.

 

Songs that Gripped my Heart in 2007

Here's a basic list of songs that influenced my life this year.

Listed in no particular order.

Song Title & Artist
None but Jesus by Hillsong *On itunes alone I listened to this song 300 times! if you get a chance listen to it! It's one of those songs that you'll bypass initially but give it a chance it's anointed.

Almost Home by Craig Morgan * I just love this song. Craig Morgan has an incredible voice.

Shine On by Needtobreathe *It's my lifesong! AND, it motivates me to keep moving.

My Savior My God by Aaron Shust *one of my favorite songs to sing in the car

All My Praise by Selah *discovered this song while on a long thoughtful walk. I cried...

Higher by Hillsong *gives me goose bumps

As Long as the Day by Josh Drew *CAN NOT get enough of this song! I've been begging Josh for a copy of this song since the first time I heard it this last summer. I generally listen to it before bed or before prayer - WOW!!

I Am by Eddy James *My friend Dane introduced me to this one.

You are Better by Michael Bleeker *listen to it that's all I gotta say about this one! Puts your entire walk into prospective.

Burn us Up by Shane & Shane *this song took me by surprise. The entire cd, Papers, is well worth the investment! do it!

Plank Panic Attack

I don't know what possessed me...I was online and I Googled "Planks". Oh, the dread that hit my heart.



Check this out: Plank Hell!

I can't believe the madness gets worse!

Quick prayer to God: Dear Lord, please! Please! don't let Sir Chadwick ever remember to bring this into the gym. AMEN!