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What I’ve been doing (Tales from the Scale related)

February 1, 2010

What I’ve been doing (Tales from the Scale related)

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This marks my 4th week of the Return to Healthy Living of 2010. I've been getting some emails with questions like, "So, what are you doing anyway?," and "How is this time any different from your colossal failure from last year?" and "When will you blog about Omega-3 fish oils?" and "Can I borrow some money?"

All fair questions indeed, except possibly the fish oil one.

Here's the deal: I'm back to following the Weight Watchers plan. After having a complete physical and talking to my doctor, she basically stated that WW was one of the few plans she endorsed, mostly because it does encourage the end user to figure out how to eat within a certain range, and how to do it in the  healthiest manner possible. Or at least that's the goal.

So far, so good. I have a bunch of past WW food favorites. Things like:

• Yoplait Fat Free yogurts—I have one at breakfast, and one after dinner most days. Mmmm. Sweet treat. However, in true OCD fashion, the only flavor I like is Banana-Strawberry. And that's it. And yes, I know that this whole low fat/no fat thing may backfire, but for now, let me love my yogurts.

• Weight Watchers Whole Wheat Bread—sure, High Fructose Corn Syrup is like the 3rd or 4th ingredient, and I can't even pronounce the others, but HEY, 1 point for 2 slices!

• Light string cheese—mmm, a little protein snack for 1 point.

• Blueberries—I cannot get enough of these right now. So good for you, too. Super Food!

• Frozen chopped broccoli—[insert choir of angels singing here] Oh. My. Jolly Green Giant. Seriously. So like, A) it's a known Super Food, and B) you eat a cup of it at zero points before you eat your other food and BAM! You will fill up faster. That, and I sprinkle a little of my new favorite salt derivative on it:

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I don't have blood pressure issues, and I'm judicious with my sprinkling, but seriously? Yum. And it makes the whole notion of butter (or even 0-point spray butter) unnecessary.

For dinner most nights, I'm scouring the internet (and WW Online) for low points options, as well as going back to some of my tried and true favorites that with a little tweaking, come out to low points meals. Things like:

Lighter Beef Chili—cut the beef amount in half and use the extra lean variety, add around a cup of beef broth, and even a little tomato sauce. A hearty bowl is 5 points.

Chicken Posole—cut the chili powder to 2 Tablespoons, use half the chicken (I use the white meat chicken from one rotisserie bird from Target) and I don't add the water either. 3 points for 1 cup. Delish.

I like these two recipes because neither truly requires any toppings. I just add cilantro and lime to both when eating. No cheese needed people. But I truly believe that Penzey's Regular Chili powder is the key to both.

As far as fitness goes, I'm trying to do something every single day. So far, in the past 21 days, I've missed one day of excercise. Extreme much? Perhaps.

But here's the thing: there is no reason I can't move my body for 30 minutes out of a 24 hour day. It seems like a courtesy really. Like, "Hello, body… I'm really sorry I've treated you like utter and complete CRAP for years, when all along you've been doing pretty much ALL the work."

I'm trying to look at is as a simple maintenance plan for the bod.

Right now, I'm doing the treadmill. My workout goes like this:

1. Crank up the Adam Lambert (track one of my workout mix is "For Your Entertainment.")

2. Warm up for two minutes on 3 mph.

3. Start jogging at 3.3-3.7 mph for 15 or 20 minutes. I realize this isn't blazingly fast, but let me tell you this: I don't want to hold a conversation with you while I'm doing it. It is amazing to me how much easier jogging is now that I don't smoke. The other part that makes it easier? Kanye West, Justin Timberlake, Lady Gaga, Green Day, Prince and Janet Jackson, to name just a few of the artists on my iPod shuffle mix. And on the days when my legs just don't want to jog, I walk as fast as I can.

4. Walk out the remainder of the time, occasionally mixing in more 1 minute jog bursts.

5. Every other day, add a 15 minute weight routine.

6. Wear my pedometer and shoot for 10,000 total steps.

Starting this month, I'm going to add in one yoga workout and one other workout each week (via video). I have Jillian Michael's 30-Day Shred and something from that hot Jackie Warner of Bravo's Workout fame.

The overall goal is to integrate exercise as part of my life.

So that's the scoop, people. I'm not a fitness expert by ANY stretch. I'm just making a dent into a different kind of lifestyle; one that I hope will become like second nature and help me to live a longer, happier life.

I will check back with my monthly report and scrapbook page in about week and a half. I'm not going to say you'll see a dramatic difference in the photo I'll take, but you will see a woman who's proud of what she's trying to accomplish.

(And maybe my butt will look just titch less shelf like. Just maybe.)

P.S. Every time I finish a workout, I stretch out, and I listen to Down to Earth by Peter Gabriel, the theme song to Wall-E. I personally feel Peter was ROBBED at the Oscars last year, as this song was nominated for an Academy Award, and lost. Hearing Pete's magical voice soothes and rewards me for my efforts. Just thought I'd leave you with the picture of me, sweaty, rolling around on the ground, listening to this:

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Comments

  1. Kate says

    February 1, 2010 at 5:04 am

    Well done Cathy! You are doing really well!

    I’ve finally got the eating in moderation down (with the odd blip). February is the month in which I move more regularly.

    Starting the Brush class today at ReneePearson that I won the other week. Thanks again 🙂

    Reply
  2. Marge Johnston says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:00 am

    You can do this thing!! Proud of you and appreciative of the encouragement and motivation you provide for the rest of us!! 🙂

    Reply
  3. Toni Brockliss says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:05 am

    I totes agree Cathy!!! He was robbed!
    X
    ps cheering you on from across the ocean. You are a lean mean Cathy machine!

    Reply
  4. Shannon says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:12 am

    Wow Cathy, that rocks! You are really changing your lifestyle and I love it. It’s totally awesome that you exercise EVERY DAY! I can’t get to every day, but I get to 4 – 5 times a week. Go you! And keep it up. 🙂

    Reply
  5. Judy in Huntsville[al] says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:38 am

    thanks – thank you for sharing! I need some inspiration right now as every day i’m saying today is the day and it’s not quite happened…

    Reply
  6. Erin says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:39 am

    Nice job! I have been trying to get my lazy, work from home booty off the chair and onto the treadmill. Here are a few songs that have MADE my walk/runs cook right along:

    Freedom ’90, George Michael
    Extreme Behavior, Hinder (if you like to run with angry rockers, these are your peeps)
    Master The Treadmill, Ok Go (this was a special release when Apple launched that nike doo-dad with the iPod…I don’t have the doo-dad, just this album. AWESOME.)

    P.S. How great was Green Day on the Grammy’s?

    Reply
  7. Leslie says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:53 am

    Cathy – I’m on the same path as you and can’t thank you enough for the WASA suggesion. I never liked them in the past, but tried them with two squirts of butter spray (0 points) and I now have a healthy, CRUNCHY snack. Just think, we’ll be able to shop for Spring clothes (or fit back into our old ones) ahead of time and not dread the process!! Go girl!

    Leslie

    Reply
  8. Barb says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:54 am

    Good for you! You’re inspiring me. I like what you said about moving your body for 30 minutes…as a courtesy. I could have written those words. I do feel bad for how I neglect my body most of the time, and then the minute things aren’t going right I’m whining and carrying on. The nerve of me! Our bodies are amazing and we should respect them. Now if I could just get off this computer and hop on my treadmill…

    Reply
  9. Creative Junkie says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:55 am

    Cathy – I’m also doing WW and I wanted to clue you in to these, in case you’ve never had them: Skinny Cow ice cream bars.

    OMG. They are so dang good – the truffle bars, the fudge bars, whatever. I make sure to have one a day and it makes it so much easier to stay on the plan.

    Good luck!

    Reply
  10. Sara M says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:59 am

    Have you ever tried Penzey’s, Mural of Flavor? I add it to pasta sauce to give it a little more flavor. The other day though, I put in on some green beans and it was really good.
    Way to go so far. You can do this.

    Reply
  11. dawn says

    February 1, 2010 at 7:23 am

    I’m making a similar goal this year too. I turned 40 last year and haven’t exercised in years. I’m ready for a new ME this year and I’m taking it slowly so I won’t quit as I’ve done in the past. I workout everyday also to a varity of dvd’s I bought and get from the library. I’ve noticed if I change my workouts every week it’s not boring. I feel good about it already. In the food dept. eating a salad everyday for lunch sometimes for dinner and cutting back on portions. I’m not a fan of water or milk so to make it easier to drink these everyday I’ve been using dixie cups. After a workout a dixie of water after dinner a dixie of milk. It’s a small start I know but it’s easier then bringing out a big water bottle and feeling I have to drink all that in a day, it’s never worked. So I’m working it up slowly this week I will use a small cup and every week or two keep moving up in size and it’s actually working. After working out I like having the water and down it right away sometimes filling it up again and the milk tastes good so sometimes I have another dixie of milk. I’m making small goals this year instead of big ones and I think it will be easier for me to stick with it. Good luck with your workouts and eating too. Sounds like your off to a great start. I will keep you posted as you keep us posted.

    Reply
  12. krisbekrafty says

    February 1, 2010 at 7:24 am

    Impressive regimen! A nice little dose of inspiration as my New Years Mentality has begun to wear off.

    BTW…Have you tried VitaMuffins? The Doublechocolate muffin tops are 1 point, and you won’t believe how good they are!

    Reply
  13. Jennie says

    February 1, 2010 at 7:41 am

    Great job Cathy! Sounds like you have you’re head in the right place, and aren’t aiming for 125 by Saturday – go you!

    Curious to see what you think of the 30 Day Shred. When I first started, I couldn’t decide if she was a genius, if I wanted to hunt her down and try to slap her, or just curl up on my mat and cry. Good luck!

    Reply
  14. Jennie says

    February 1, 2010 at 7:42 am

    not “you’re” but “your”. Duh. Bring on more coffee!

    Reply
  15. Glenna says

    February 1, 2010 at 7:46 am

    so question chica where do you get that salt stuff? I LURVE salt!!

    Reply
  16. Rachel Smith says

    February 1, 2010 at 7:55 am

    I’ve done that 30 minute shred on Comcast On Demand, and let me tell you, it burns! It’s a good workout, but I can’t stand her, so I stopped doing it. I love yoga, though. Denise Austin has a couple of really great yoga videos. She has one that mixes yoga and pilates for a more cardio-type workout than you would get from yoga alone. I highly recommend her videos!!

    Reply
  17. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:18 am

    Oh, Freedom 90 would be AWESOME!I am adding that.

    Green Day was okay. The whole Grammy thing was just weird to me.

    Reply
  18. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:19 am

    OH yeah, i always forget about those. The WW Fudge Bars ain’t bad either!

    Reply
  19. Leora says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:19 am

    Cathy, that report sounds great! You are motivating my sedentary B_T. I have settled in on a once a week exercise routine. Definitely NOT ENOUGH!

    Congrats on your journey!

    Leora

    Reply
  20. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:19 am

    i will add that to my Penzey’s list the next time i’m there!

    Reply
  21. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:20 am

    Go Dawn!
    You know, i drink while on the treadmill, 18 ounces while i’m working out. I’m so thirsty and hot, it makes it less painful!

    Reply
  22. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:20 am

    I’ve heard of those! will check them out!

    Reply
  23. Missus Wookie says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:29 am

    Cathy,

    Congrats on all you are doing. Exercise daily is so hard to fit in and so easy to slip out of habits I’ve found. I now have a food journal that includes it as bubbles to fill in (one each stretching/aerobic etc.). The clipboard hangs in my bathroom reminding me.

    As for your chilli – check out Quorn mince, I’ve swapped to it and even my meat loving dh/ds haven’t objected. Still high protein but much lower in fat than meat.

    My most recent goal has been “fruit/veg snack before anything else” so if I’m thinking chocolate I eat fruit/veg portions then go for the chocolate. The fibre fills me, the fructose helps the cravings and I’m happier to stop at a smaller portion of sugar.

    One scoop of Ben & Jerry’s chocolate brownie frozen yoghurt with chopped banana is luscious too. Put it in a very pretty cup so it fills it rather than languishing in a bowl. Psychology but it works 🙂

    Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  24. wendy says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:39 am

    Hey Cathy! I discovered this weight-watcher-y-all-the-points-are-counted-for-you-blog last week (on two peas of all places) and I’ve just put all the ingredients for crock pot santa fe chicken in the crockpot to give it a try. http://weight-watchers-points-recipes.blogspot.com/ Yeah for adding more beans into the diet plan!

    Reply
  25. Barb says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:06 am

    Go, Cathy! You’re awesome. 🙂
    To add to your playlist: Mirror in the Bathroom by The English Beat.

    Reply
  26. dawn says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:14 am

    In regard to Rachel Smith’s comment. I love Denise Austin always have. She’s always smiling and happy and has been doing this for years now. The workout dvd’s I’ve been using are different ones of hers. She has a new 12minute daily dozen which I do everyday, it’s just 12mts everyday with a different exercise and yoga stretches on the weekends. I get two different ones of hers at the library everyweek and mix it up doing all three at once. I’m also using the new Valerie Bertinelli “Losing it ” dvd and love hers too, I can really feel my muscles getting a workout. Instead of thinking of a number that I want to be by a certain date my goal is just to exercise everyday and think about being healthy for myself so I won’t be let down when or if I don’t reach that goal. I actually look forward to my workouts everyday.

    Reply
  27. Nancy says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:20 am

    You go, Girl! Totally cheering you on and striving for that balanced, helathy life as well. I have the WW chili/soupy recipe for low points, if you don’t have it (didn’t read all 100 comments above so sorry if you already got it). My hubby LOVES it, so it makes a great dinner, lunch option. Loving DYL! Keep up all the great work.

    Reply
  28. cynthia says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:25 am

    Such a awesome post. So many ideas:) Thank you! I tried the instant Chai. One of my treats now. Thanks for the heads up. Two weeks now for me eating well. Man there was some cranky days:) And the working out is going well. Seriously I am loving it again. Baby steps though. And Music is such a huge part of it. Go Lady GaGa:)

    I am so proud of you!!! Keep going.

    Reply
  29. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:38 am

    Glenna, if you click on the link where it says “salt derivative” above, it’ll take you there! Penzey’s Spices.

    Reply
  30. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:39 am

    Cool! I will check it out!

    Reply
  31. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:39 am

    I LOVE that song!

    Reply
  32. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:40 am

    I’ve heard such good things about Denise Austin! i should check it out, especially her yoga stuff!

    Reply
  33. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:40 am

    Nancy, any recipes you want to share, please do! Seriously. My poor hubby gets a little tired of the same old things. LOL!

    Reply
  34. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:41 am

    You go too! : )

    It IS hard. it is much easier to sit and surf the internet with a bowl of chips.

    but i feel like it’s time.

    Reply
  35. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:43 am

    WOW! This website looks amazing. The first recipe looks yum! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  36. Jane Toft says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:50 am

    Phew!

    Reply
  37. Leslie says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:56 am

    Proud of you, Cathy!! That Total Shred works your body big time!! Love that you are doing this in baby steps. Way to go!!!

    Reply
  38. marion w says

    February 1, 2010 at 10:05 am

    Cathy, try Penzeys Chili 9000. It is AWESOME, and you will never go back!

    Good luck with the diet!

    Reply
  39. Jade @ No Longer 25 says

    February 1, 2010 at 10:08 am

    Sounds like you are really motivated and that’s really important. WW sounds like it’s reasonable too not like some of the scary diets out there!

    I just got photoshop partly inspired by looking at all you fab layouts and photos. I’m learning very slowly but it’s a lot of fun. Although it’s another excuse to sit on my bum at the computer instead of doing something more active!

    Good luck and I look forward to hearing how it goes.
    Jade

    Reply
  40. deb says

    February 1, 2010 at 10:50 am

    Way to go , Cathy! Sounds like you got the mojo. I’m not sure if I mentioned this before or not, but another site I love is ronisweigh.com. She’s a blogger who lost 80 pounds on WW, and blogs about her experience. She has another site as well, greenlitebites.com, where she posts tons of recipes and points values. One of the things I love about Roni is her attitude about body image, and her way of helping to understand that it’s a way of life, and that there are going to be ups and downs, and it’s okay if you have a bad day, as long as you get back up. She’s helped me stop looking at this crazy process as all or nothing. I’m down 63 pounds, still have a couple more Christmas pounds to work off before I start delving into the new fat. I still have a bunch to go, but it’ll come off. You’re doing awesome! Let us know if you find a good yoga video, I’ve been searching myself but I’d love a review first!

    Reply
  41. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:02 am

    Deb, i think you told me about this. I totally got engrossed in her site last week! She’s very inspirinig!

    Reply
  42. Lora says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:11 am

    Good luck with your routine. I joined WW last Oct. wanting to lose about 20 lbs and zoomed past my goal weight before Xmas and now, here the 1st week of Feb. have lost 41 lbs. I’m maintaining now and that’s harder than taking it off! I work out to Leslie Sansone Walk Dvd’s, walk/jog outside and do a few other cardio workout routines, all at home every day. If you do the exercise and make it a part of your day, it will come off faster on WW, I’m living proof of it. I’ll be pulling for you!

    Reply
  43. heather says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:21 am

    You go, Cathy! My workplace started offering a WW meeting and [cue choirs of angels] I lost weight *over the holidays* and am still losing! I’m on a supervised exercise regimen and feel better every day.

    I wanted to share with you a few links that have helped and inspired me. 🙂

    http://badassfitness.typepad.com/badass-fitness/ (you can’t not love that name, right?)

    http://aveggieventuresrecipebox.blogspot.com/2005/03/stay-fit-healthy-with-weight-watchers.html (recipes with points!)

    http://www.fatsecret.com/calories-nutrition/ (foods with points!)

    And if you have an iphone/itouch, there’s an app called iWatchr that has a points calculator and tracker.

    Reply
  44. Laura Pineau says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:26 am

    Hey Cathy, I’ve been following a similar program (although slacking on exercise) and have shed 6 lbs since Jan. 5. 5 of us girls started a weekly check-in through facebook, and it’s great at making us accountable – and for cheering each other on.

    I’m always looking for meatless or meat optional recipes for casseroles. Any great suggestions that are super easy?

    Reply
  45. Corey says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:38 am

    Hey Cathy I’ve been following the weight watchers plan too. One of my favorite recipes is Spicy Black Bean Soup. it’s only 3 points AND it’s a filling food! http://www.weightwatchers.com/food/rcp/index.aspx?recipeid=99601 It’s super yummy! Also just out of curiosity, I put in Pioneer Woman’s chicken pasta recipe she posted today. without the pasta and if you use lowfat milk instead of heavy cream it’s only about 4 points! Not bad.
    P.S. 30 day shred is pretty hard at first, but it feels so good to get it done and fast. i look forward to it now more than my yoga or pilates DVDs.

    Reply
  46. bettyann says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:42 am

    You go girl!!!! I suck at keeping on track with my exercise..but I like what you say about moving your body…dance will cleaning helps…chasing the cats around the house is silly but movement..thanks for the inspiration..

    Reply
  47. Kimberly L.C. says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:47 am

    Good work Cathy! The hubs and I are doing pretty well also, though we’ve chosen to improve the eating part first and establish new habits there first, then work on establishing new exercise habits.

    Oh, and Jackie Warner… H-O-T. I love her show and man, if I wasn’t thoroughly heterosexual, she could make a girl turn, let me tell ya. Yowza.

    Reply
  48. shelley says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:47 am

    I LOVE your digital template for losing weight this year!! Wanted to share my favorite WW (but not official WW) recipe blog site…it’s awesome. Gina does a fantastic job of making great tasting meals.

    http://weight-watchers-points-recipes.blogspot.com/

    Can’t wait for February’s photo! 🙂

    Reply
  49. tirzah says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:49 am

    I’m glad to hear things are going well. You sound in great spirits. Thanks for sharing your ideas and routines and recipes. You never know who will get a new idea from one of your suggestions. Keep it up!

    Reply
  50. shelley says

    February 1, 2010 at 11:50 am

    LOL! Now I’m reading the comments more closely and see that you’ve already found it…

    Consider my comment above a +1 to the earlier comment on the site! My faves? Lemon Oregano Feta Chicken, chicken taco chili (for the slow cooker), Chipotle’s cilantro lime rice, and asian turkey meatballs with lime dipping sauce.

    YUM.

    Reply
  51. Stacia says

    February 1, 2010 at 12:11 pm

    Good for you!! You are inspiring. That can only be good, right?

    Hey, do you really eat that broccoli still frozen??!! I love broc but have to have it steamed “just right.” Then I have it with a light sprinkle of salt – yummers. It’d be awesome to have a quick way to fix some, though, ’cause it’s hard to get geared up to chop & steam & wait when you’re hungry. The quick snack always looks better!

    I’ll have to try that spicey salt, though. Looks like a yummy option. I’m taking notes on all the other suggestions here in the comments, too. Thanks everyone!!

    Reply
  52. Deborah says

    February 1, 2010 at 12:35 pm

    Hey Cathy! Are you up and running on your new treadmill? I’m considering the Sole too, and want to know how it’s working for you. Thanks!

    Reply
  53. Katy says

    February 1, 2010 at 12:36 pm

    🙂 loving all the recipes people are sharing. The WW mag at the meeting two weeks ago had a fabulous recipe for Old Fashioned Chicken pot pie that filled my family of 5 to the gills and THAT is saying something. I want to say a serving was 4 or 5 points, not bad to be that full. It was yummy too. ;D
    I’ve been walking at the mall, but am scouring craigslist for a treadmill.
    Have you tried WW soda (or pop, depending on your area of the country) cake? a point a piece. 🙂

    Reply
  54. Carrie says

    February 1, 2010 at 12:36 pm

    Might I suggest some websites and books for your health and pleasure:
    The Womens Health Big Book of Exercises(awesome for weight training and great for changing up your workouts)

    The Beck Diet
    (can pair this positive thinking with Weight Watchers diet)

    http://www.sparkpeople.com
    Nutrition, recipes, exercise.
    Founder just wrote a great book too, I would recomend it.

    http://www.eatingwell.com
    healthy recipes and you can even target certain calorie counts 1200, 1500, 1800

    It sounds like you are committed this year. Just remember, even if you get off track periodically, you can always get back on track.
    I lost 15 lbs. 5 years ago and I go back to journaling my food when I am up more than three pounds. It works. Exercise and nutrition together work the best.
    Good for you not giving up. Healthy Blessings to you on your journey.

    Reply
  55. Kelly B says

    February 1, 2010 at 12:53 pm

    Go Cathy! I’m a WW LT member after losing over 100 pounds just about two years ago. Exercise 5 days per week, Yoplait light yogurt, LF string cheese, one pt bread, and tons of veggies are part of my every day. I also have FF refried beans as a vegetarian option a couple of times a week plus they make baked tortilla chips feel like I’m getting away with something! Maintaining (or losing) hasn’t always been easy, but I definitely feel so much better. I’ll be cheering for you!

    Reply
  56. jacqueline says

    February 1, 2010 at 12:57 pm

    cathy…i am so happy for all the progress that you have made! i just wanted to tell you that i lost 3lbs. and you are one of the reasons i felt so motivated! thank you! i will continue to cheer you on!

    Reply
  57. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 1:40 pm

    Thanks Carrie! Great places to check out!

    Reply
  58. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 1:40 pm

    Oh no, it’s steamed! LOL!I buy the frozen Steamers kind.

    Reply
  59. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 1:41 pm

    Shelly, someone else just shared this link. HO MY GOODNESS! Her site looks amazing.

    Reply
  60. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 1:41 pm

    That soup sounds yummy!

    I’m guessing a lot of PW’s recipes might be crazy over points…. LOL!

    Reply
  61. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 1:42 pm

    Heather, thanks! I LOVE Badass, because that’s what my friend Jenn was featured on. Cool links!

    Reply
  62. Wendy says

    February 1, 2010 at 2:21 pm

    Hate to admit it but haven’t checked in here in awhile. I do, and what do I find? Exactly the stuff that I needed to hear. Funny how that works. Just joined WW online this morning, in fact, with a commitment to move my body for at least 30 minutes every day. So how’s that for coincidence? Thanks, Cathy!!!

    Reply
  63. Deborah Helms says

    February 1, 2010 at 2:33 pm

    Hi Cathy,

    I too am trying one more time to start a healthy lifestyle. I am on the “I-Diet”, using your instincts to lose weiht and keep it off-without feeling hungry, by Susan B Roberts. I have been on the plan for a week now, the operative word being week. I usually only last a few days. This is the first time I have read a diet book from cover to cover and it just made so much sense to me.

    I have a recommendation, if you are a broccoli lover. I buy the fresh broccoli in a big bag at Costco and if you put it in a bowl with just a little water and salt and peper and put it in the microwave for 6 minutes it is perfectly cooked and dare I say supremely scrumptious. Good luck on your efforts and keep us up to date on your progress.

    Deborah

    Reply
  64. scrapper al says

    February 1, 2010 at 2:36 pm

    Good for you Cathy! I second the recommendation for Penzeys. If you have one near you, be careful. It is almost as bad as walking into a scrapbook store, lol, just with yummy smells. Who knew there were so many kinds of chili and pepper and cinnamon. And thanks everyone for the recipes and links.

    Reply
  65. Lee says

    February 1, 2010 at 2:38 pm

    Hi Cathy –
    I LOVE what you “said” to your body!
    Very inspiring – as are you my dear.
    Good luck and many thanks!
    ;o)
    – Lee

    Reply
  66. Maegan says

    February 1, 2010 at 2:56 pm

    I have two little tidbits for you. One, we put 2 beef bouillon cubes in with our ground turkey + taco seasoning when making tacos and they are delish! Even my husband (who is anti-healthy anything) prefers them to beef tacos now.

    Second, fun little Peter Gabriel story for you. My five year old drew a picture of Wall-E in space for Peter Gabriel last year and mailed it to him with a note thanking him for writing “Down to Earth.” She listens to it every night before bed. A few months ago we got a note back from Peter Gabriel and an autographed picture. What a cool guy.

    Reply
  67. Robin M says

    February 1, 2010 at 3:01 pm

    I’ll give you an AMEN! for Wall-E and Peter Gabriel.

    Have you tried the apple turnover yogurt by Yoplait? I can only find it at 2 grocery chains here but it is the bomb. keep up the good work.
    A friend of mine did WW too. She would add 1/2 – 1 cup of frozen veggies to her lean cuisines for lunch. Love that idea!

    Reply
  68. Mel says

    February 1, 2010 at 3:26 pm

    I’m doing WW online too and if you like soup Progresso has some that are 0 points. They make a nice quick light lunch.

    Reply
  69. Jenny says

    February 1, 2010 at 4:08 pm

    I really like Jillian’s 30 day shred. In 20 minutes you feel as if you’ve done a ton. I still haven’t made it to 3. My sister also did well using her no problem zones dvd. It’s in circuts, so you don’t have to do the whole thing, you can skip to the ones you want. I found it at Costco for $8.

    Reply
  70. sarah_struebig@yahoo.com says

    February 1, 2010 at 4:58 pm

    I am speechless….you are amazing. Thank you for sharing, for putting yourself full on out there…you are an inspiration in all aspects of your life. From one midwestern almost 44 year old mom to another, JOLLY GOOD!

    Reply
  71. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 5:42 pm

    Deborah, not yet. It’s due here on Thursday. I will report!

    Reply
  72. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 5:42 pm

    Congrats, Jacqueline!

    Reply
  73. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 5:42 pm

    You can do eeet! : )

    Reply
  74. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 5:43 pm

    Another reason i should join Coscto!

    Reply
  75. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 5:43 pm

    Yep. I have one three miles from my house. Heaven!

    Reply
  76. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 5:44 pm

    Oh my gosh, i LOVE that Maegan. Wow.

    True story for you: when i was 19 i wrote an editorial to the Dallas Fort Worth paper after they slammed PG’s concert.

    They ran my letter, and i sent it off to PG, and i heard back from PGs secretary, with a thank you.

    Cool guy indeed!

    Reply
  77. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 5:44 pm

    Oh yes, i know those soups well!

    Reply
  78. cathy says

    February 1, 2010 at 5:45 pm

    Go Midwestern 40-somethins!

    Reply
  79. Brenda says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:17 pm

    A couple of low cal but really tasty options: marinate boneless skinless chicken breasts in fat free Kraft zesty italian dressing all day then cook on a grill pan. Also, take taco seasoning mix and put on boneless pork chops (use like a rub) and then grill on a grill pan (or BBQ).

    Reply
  80. Shannon says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:19 pm

    The whole “I feel like it’s time” part is the most important part! 🙂 You’re switch is ON. Go girl!

    Reply
  81. Martha M. says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:28 pm

    Cathy-
    I am also on my 4th week of WW and I could basically just copy and paste your post into my blog and no one would be the wiser. 😉

    I am trying to make exercise a part of my life and not just something that I have to do. It’s hard. I’ve been riding my spinning bike, doing a little Wii Active and weights a few times a week!

    From one 43 year old to another…here’s to ya!

    Reply
  82. Michell says

    February 1, 2010 at 6:33 pm

    Good you Cathy. I started my health recovery plan last June and I feel a million times better. I have lost 37 pounds and I do things that I thought I would never be able to do again, like distance cycling.

    One tip for those who work at a computer. Replace your chair with one of those huge exercise balls. You get an awesome core workout as you maintain your balance.

    Really enjoying all the yummy recipes be shared.

    Reply
  83. loriet says

    February 1, 2010 at 7:04 pm

    Good girl, Cathy.

    Reply
  84. carikraft says

    February 1, 2010 at 7:14 pm

    What a great thing you are doing for yourself and your family and for your fans who get to work out right along with you. There you go again inspiring us all!

    I wanted to stop and tell you that as I was all goose-bumpy during the Green Day/ Broadway Cast rendition of 21 Guns last night on the Grammys, I was totally thinking somewhere in Minnesota a Zielske or two were loosing their sh*t!!!!

    Reply
  85. Noelle says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:14 pm

    Way to go Cathy! Keep at it! I haven’t tried Jillian’s video but have two other BL DVDs w/ Bob & some of the contestants…they are my motivation. Heck if they can drop all that weight, I should be able to get 10 lbs off my butt! And yes Peter was TOTALLY robbed…his song was the best part of the movie.

    Reply
  86. Stephanie says

    February 1, 2010 at 8:19 pm

    Good for you, Cathy! My daughter lost 40 pounds on WW, and I have lost fifteen. We both swear by the hungrygirl.com website, as well as her cookbooks. I’m sure that you’re probably already aware, but she is amazing!

    Reply
  87. DarlaLOU says

    February 1, 2010 at 9:40 pm

    You just MADE MY DAY!!!!!!!!! I have been running on the deathmill at 3.8-4.2 with small bursts at 4.5 to 5.0 and I thought I was a pokey lil’ puppy! THANK YOU for making me feel good. You are a saint!

    Reply
  88. Cindy says

    February 2, 2010 at 12:36 am

    Sounds like you’ve got a good handle on changing your lifestyle!! Yay!! I think WW makes so much sense. It really does re-teach you good choices/portions. And moving every day but 1 out of 21 is a great feat! I’m approaching 50, and let me tell you I HATE the scale if I don’t move EVERY.SINGLE.DAY!! It really makes a difference. Now I just need to move somewhere warm, ‘cuz my treadmill and elliptical machine are getting BORING! 🙂 Keep up the GREAT work … so proud of you.

    Reply
  89. Margy Eastman says

    February 2, 2010 at 1:53 am

    Great job, Cathy! After a complete lapse over the holidays, I’m back on the WW myself. If you can find it, the WW “Pure Comfort” cookbook is awesome. The rigatoni bolongnese is delish! It’s out of print so I found it on e-bay.

    The whole wheat English muffin saved me, and I learned to choke down the fat free cheese (tough for this Wisconsin girl)!…but the Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches are the best!

    Keep up the good work!

    Margy

    Reply
  90. Kirstie MacGowan says

    February 2, 2010 at 2:27 am

    Hi Cathy,

    I’m sure that someone has shared this above in the masses of comments… I am doing WW in New Zealand…. I have been on it since August last year and have lost about 8kg. I find what works for me is to have 6 days on and 1 day off. I weigh in on Saturday morning then have “Don’t Care Saturday” for the rest of day. This is one day a week where I eat what I want (and I seriously go to town) and then get back on the wagon on Sunday.
    It works really well for me – keeps me motivated and I really look forward to having McDonalds on Saturday!
    Thought it might help!

    Reply
  91. twitter.com/pmakurat says

    February 2, 2010 at 11:06 am

    Cathy- we’re all pretty much on this journey of taking care of ourselves together. I like to remind my family that I need to take care of myself in order to take care of them better.

    As a LT WW member not at goal, I know your journey well. WW follows the food pyramid and is one of the healthiest plans out there. It helps to find your “whys” of what gets us where we are. So much of this we are now seeing on Biggest Loser too – that we have reasons to overeat beyond the enjoyment & availability of the food alone.

    I have had to up the activity & I’m normally pretty active. I’ve taken up jogging/running thanks to a crazy boot camp class I took. What I’ve found to push me is the Podrunner intervals that I’ve downloaded. Beats all my favorite music.

    Peggy

    Reply
  92. amanda gibson says

    February 3, 2010 at 11:41 am

    Way to go, Cathy! I’m doing weight watchers too and it’s the only program that has ever worked for me – although I must admit that I’m lacking motivation right now. Don’t ask my why – cuz I can’t figure it out. Anyway, thought I’d recommend the Fiber One bars to you – have you tried those? They are SUPER yummy and only two points each.

    Reply

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