What started last January has boiled down to this one fact: I bought new jeans last week—jeans that, if I'm being honest, I haven't spent that kind of coin on since my brief, misguided Guess jean phase of 1984—and the tag on those jeans that left the Lucky Brand Store with me read as follows: Size 8.
I realize that getting into shape has numerous benefits. It lowers your cholesterol and blood pressure. It aids in general stress reduction and buoys your overall mental state. It contributes directly to the potential to extend your life on this big blue ball by many, many years.
But buying new jeans in size 8? I'm sorry for seeming vain and shallow, people, but that's a side benefit that just doesn't suck.
DOES NOT SUCK!
It has been an interesting month. The scale didn't move until last week. I had a few over the top food fest days. I also realized with my increased levels of running and cross training, I simply wasn't eating enough calories. This is a good thing.
And while new jeans are definitely a cause for celebration, the little devil that sits squarely on my other, more weighted down shoulder is whispering in my ear like a pesky gnat: "Don't get too comfy there, missy. Don't screw the pooch on this one, like you did last time."
Gee, thanks inner critical voice. Your generous and thoughtful support is greatly appreciated!
Here's this month's layout documenting the journey:
JOURNALING READS: I’m not gonna lie, seeing the before and after comparison is never going to get old, unless of course they begin to start matching up again. Here I am at the start of Month 9, and after a brief mental breakdown a few weeks back with a solid stretch of total crap eating and no visible weight loss, I had two major breakthroughs. The first? The scale finally moved after 3 weeks of remaining static. The second? I went shopping for new jeans. I realize the scale shouldn’t rate so highly. Really, I get that…ideologically. But seeing it move and realizing that I DO need to eat more calories to match my workout levels was a really critical piece of this pie, so to speak. I also realize that buying new jeans shouldn’t be the end all be all of getting into shape, but I’m sorry: I walked out of the Lucky Brand Jeans store with a pair of size freaking 8 jeans in my bag. WHAT? Get. Out.
I realize how few clothes I’ve bought in the past 3 years. Oh sure, I’d pick up a new blousy chubby girl shirt every now and then to mask my ever expanding muffin, but I’d sort of just given up. I wish that weight and confidence weren’t so inextricable for me. Maybe that will change over time. Maybe it won’t. I’m very proud of the work I’ve done. I’m very scared that I may not be able to hold onto these results. I continue to explore the process as I continue my efforts to move more and eat less. Like I’ve said, it really is one day at a time.
So here I am at a critical juncture. The time when I am closing in on my goal (135) and need to prepare to transition into maintaining the results.
I'm evaluating a lot these days. How much to eat. How much and how far to run. How to read the signs of my body for tweaks and pains. How to live in balance with life and food.
I will tell you this in all honesty: it is never automatic.
For now, steady as she goes. Eat less, move more.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go admire my new Lucky Jean clad-ass. I figure, flaunt it while I've got it, right?
Want to join in? Or document your journey? Or whine along?Or celebrate successes? Both the template above and this one are available at Designer Digitals for those who want to track their progress along with me.
SUPPLIES: Layered Template No. 38 (Cathy Zielske) • Krafty No. 7 Cardstock Pack (Katie Pertiet) • Aki Solids Paper Pack (Michelle Martin) • Avenir and Archer fonts
To read more on my journey of Eating Less and Moving More, all posts on fitness related issues can be found here.
katie squires says
YOU RoCK!!!!!!
Steph G. says
You go girl! Love the new jeans;)
Chrispea Hertel says
And may I say, you look mauvaaaloussss darling! 😉
susanvl says
You’re rocking the new jeans CZ, keep up the good work! That’s a picture I want to keep in my head when I don’t feel like hitting the gym (only it’s my smaller butt in them, I promise not to be thinking about your butt all day!)
Jan Hicks says
Hey Cathy, there is nothing wrong with celebrating those milestones in whatever form they come. And just kick that little negative voice right off of your shoulder! You have accomplished something amazing here! Be proud of that fact, flaunt those new jeans and celebrate the AMAZING woman that you are!
I highly recommend reading the book “The Slight Edge.” It’s all about seeing life’s successes as little steps, making the little right decisions every day that will help you reach your goals, no matter what they are. These are little things that are easy to do, but also easy not to do. Not doing them will not kill you, or cause failure….today, but it will in the long run. It’ a great book that I think everyone should read. You can find it at dreambuilders.com.
Go Cathy! You are inspiring! 🙂
cathy says
LOL! Oh, I would never mind if anyone kept my butt in their mind.
Shanon Gibson says
You look amazing! You really are an inspiration….a regular gal working had to get healthy. Thanks for sharing your stuggles and successes with us!
Glenda says
Congratulations Cathy! You look fantastic. I have many, many pairs of jeans and I know when I am 120lb I can fit into my favourites. I’m 122lb now so they are just a little snug but I am wearing them! It is a very good feeling.
Bethany says
You. Look. Amazing.
Way to rock the jeans…and to embrace your whole new lifestyle!
Lori Hudson says
If it were me ( which by the way it’s not since I have never bought a single size jeans) I would leave that tag on there so everyone would know what size they are. “Oops! Silly me! I forgot to cut that off.”
Julie says
Hi Cathy – I’m right there with you. Lost 37 pounds on Weight Watchers (which we fondly call dub-dub around here) and now the mainentance phase is scaring the crap out of me. They don’t write books or give advice on how to stay the same weight. Only on how to lose. (or occasionally gain.) So it’s terrifying. I don’t know how to do this part.
I relate so much to your experiences. I also threw myself into exercise, did a couple triathlons, and now coming up on the starting line of my first full marathon. And, sheesh, am I hungry. I have gained five pounds, but my body has become like a camel – storing food and water for those long 20 mile runs on Sundays.
I do so love Dimity & SBS, who have taught me everyting I know about running. Thank you for showing me the way to them!
Karin says
Wow Cathy, you really look great, both in the jeans and the before and after. Inspiring! I’m no runner but I started biking a few months ago, and I’ve started eating better (no diet, just eating normal meals but cutting back on snacking) and lost about 10 pounds so far. I think that really could be the key, just trying to eat normally, not denying yourself too much but just enough to lose weight and then keeping up the healthier eating pattern.
Keep it up, and keep showing us, it helps you and us!
Christine says
Wow congrats! After following you through your journey (and kicking off my own….thank you btw!!)I so understand your feelings! You look fantastic!!
Danielle Taylor says
You are such a total inspiration on my own weight loss journey!! You rock those jeans – you’ve earned it!!
Sarah says
Good for You! I’m really proud and happy for you!
Melanie says
Julie – I just started maintance this week … and frankly, it scares the crap out of me too! You want me to add 4 pts AND eat all my weekly points?
Denise Laborde says
Wow. Wow. Wow.
Melanie says
Fabulous! Running (or I should say run/walking) my first 5K on Sunday … I think a nice pair of jeans sounds like a great reward, don’t you?
Yvonne says
Flaunt it girl! You earned it!! Congratulations! Absolutely celebrate the new size 8 jeans!!! I told my husband several times last week, hey, these are size 10!!! (I recently came out of a size 14!) I just need to get back on the band wagon. I have a little further to go…
Em says
You are such an inspiration! I need to get my butt in gear!
Michelle K says
I am so happy for you.
Melanie K says
You are one HOT MOMMA! I am so glad you are documenting this journey. I am a lot like you … I lost 60 lbs around three years ago. Immediately got pregnant with my third boy (and LAST I might add). I ballooned right back up there. I am sitting here now at 70+ what I should be.
I want to lose … but I haven’t gotten to the ‘must do it’ stage. I know I can … I did it before. I just need to figure out what is holding me back from doing it again. Man, hearing that you still have to count the points really does suck. I hated doing it (though it works). I guess I feel that I don’t have time with three boys and a full time job. And then I know that is a cop out. I do know it. I do.
Congrats though .. honestly, KUDOS for you!
Tammy M. says
Congrats Cathy…You ROCK! You’re such an inspiration! I recently went from pushing into a size 12 to an 8 myself and it’s definitely a motivator! Though I’ll admit up until a month ago I had given up working out (not exactly cause I wanted to…our basment where I would work out was (and still is) being remodeled) and I had nowhere to go….you’ve inspired me to start running…though right now it’s more of a walk/jog…I’ll get there eventually. I’m hoping to do a 5K soon…thanks for inspiring me and congrats a bunch on your accomplishments!!
Heidi says
You look fabulous!!!
Denise says
You have a right to be proud of what you’ve done. Weight loss isn’t an easy thing. But the Lucky jeans? No way for me. I’ll buy mine from Aero or Old Navy and save the money for scrap supplies. 🙂
dawn says
You look amazing in those jeans. Yes flaunt them everywhere you go girl!! This has been an amazing journey for you this year and I’m so happy you share it with us and inspire so many of us with it. Slow and steady, day by day that’s what always works.
Gabi says
You look AMAZING Cathy!! Enjoy your new jeans, you so deserve them, you hot momma!
kp says
LOOK AT YOU!!! You look AMAZING. And you totally deserve those jeans. And that little voice? Tell it to shut the hell up.
AudreyV says
WOO HOO! Awesome! I agree, losing weight, getting fit, exercising, and eating right are all good. But getting into(skinny) jeans is the best payoff for me!
Sharon in California says
So awesome!! You have inspired me and I am started yesterday to change my eating habits. Its a lifestyle change so exercise is also on my list for today…thank you Cathy size 8!!
cathy says
Ill check it out, Jan. Thanks for the recommendation. : )
cathy says
ha! Lori, i think im going to go dig those out of the trash now…. ; )
cathy says
Wow, your first marathon? Dang. I have read that you should be gaining anyway during your training! : ) GO GO GO! Thats very cool.
I love Dimity SBS too!
cathy says
Yep. Im really trying to look at this as something i can maintain. Eat well, move often!
cathy says
GO MELANIE! Love hearing that! And yes, it IS a good reward. Im seriously tempted to go back and get another pair.
cathy says
So thats how much it is? Hmmm. You know, i manually went in and changed my daily from 19 to 20 last week. I cant stare at a 19 point alotment. Here i am on Monday morning though, and I only have 16.5 left of my weekly extras. Thats called I made cookies over the weekend. Que sera sera! I have to still live and enjoy, right!
cathy says
why thank you. ; )
cathy says
Melanie, it is VERY hard to find time to do all of the exercise and eating well when you are BUSY! you know?
Youll figure it out when youre ready. I had to be ready, and it wasnt even that i hit any kind of rock bottom, horrific self loathing. In fact, I had a really logical realization that if i really wanted to change something, I had to just start and keep at it.
Slow steps!
cathy says
go tammy! : )
AmySorensen says
Happy new jeans day! That is an AWESOME feeling!!!! I still get a little bit tingly when I am shopping for clothes and remember I can look for a much smaller size that I used to. But, I confess: It’s been almost two years since I lost my 35 pounds and I still worry about gaining it back. Maybe if you’re a worrier you never get that demon off your shoulder???
cathy says
you know, there is a store here called Hot Mama, and ive always been too intimidated to shop there. Hmmmm.
cathy says
Smart lady! : )
Megan says
AWESOME blog post today. You rock those Lucky’s. (Doncha just love the little cheer in the zipper??)
Leslie says
So inspiring…sharing on FB today:)
Leslie
Jeanne Pellerin says
You look incredible in those jeans!
Leora says
Cathy, you look FAB in your new jeans. ENJOY!!!!!!! You deserve it!
Shirley says
LOOK at YOU!!! Way to go! Now may I borrow a bit of your will power and attitude??! I’m thinking taking that Before photo and posting it on my mirror will help — I keep feeling like a skinny person still and am amazed at that stranger in the mirror!! You should be VERY proud of yourself — keep it up!!!
Ty says
You look GREAT!!! Congrats on the size 8’s–they look perfect on you.
Marina Delgado says
This post really hit home and is so inspirational. I’m 27 my dd is 2.5, we bought a house in October and my DD is just recently potty trained. I’m now at that stage where its really time for us to start planning on baby #2. The thing is I’m terrified that since I haven’t done anything exercise-wise and have relied on my dwindling metabolism to not let things get too out of control since #1, after #2 it will be a true balloon effect in weight.
As you said, my confidence has unfortunately been somewhat tied to personal appearance and weight for a long time. I just want to feel like exercise isn’t such a hurdle so that after baby #2 I can rely on myself to get to a place with exercise and eating that makes them a part of my “me” time.
Claire says
You look wonderful!! I guess we should all be saying, “Oh, Cathy, you are so much healthier now. Good for you!” But we all know that it is a lot more fun to hear, “Damn, girl, you are HOT!”
ale says
congrats, cathy! you look amazing!!!
i love you “tales from the scale” posts. thanks for the inspiration! i’ve bought one of your digital templates, and i am planning to join your flickr group. but i’m a bit afraid of “the numbers”…
Aubrey says
Oh, Cathy, it has been high school since my behind fit into Lucky Jeans that were size 8, so I am sooo on board with your excitement! Woot! Just did my very first CZ fitness journal layout this weekend, and hoping the accountability for next month will help keep me on the horse. Congrats, congrats!!
Susie says
Well done, Cathy! You’re lookin’ good in those jeans there!
Shannon says
Hey, if you got it, flaunt it! You’ve worked hard for those results and you look great 🙂
annie says
So good.
Myra says
Cathy — You continue to be an inspiration to me in this weight loss journey. I started in April and am 30 pounds down. So you will still show up as my Z entry in MeTAV v2. The first time it was for your clean approach to scrapbooking. This time, it’s a thank you for sharing your “muffin top” struggles in such an honest, open way. Your before & after shots are amazing.
Deborah says
After a long weekend of too much sun and too little sleep, I soooo do not want to run this morning. But, your post is giving me the kick in the butt that I need! Love you. Love the jeans. Love you in the jeans. Treadmill, we are on…
Stacey aka sleepyhead says
bravo Cathy – way to rock the new jeans and thanks for sharing. I can distinctly remember the last time I wore a size 8 (1999) and would love to feel that way again, thanks for the inspiration.
cathy says
Maybe the worrier thing is what keeps one honest? : )
cathy says
WHO DAT?
cathy says
Theres definitely some power in the before and after.
cathy says
I know. I guess its just one of those times to celebrate the jeans! ha!
cathy says
Numbers are JUST numbers. Mind you, you like when they move and change, but you need to know the number to start. And its just that. Then, numbers become part of the process. Exercise for more minutes. Lose more pounds. Etc. etc. Good for you!
cathy says
Good for you, Aubrey! : ) good luck!
cathy says
: ) Thanks, Annie!
cathy says
Myra, that is awesome, woman! : )
cathy says
Take your time and dont fret if you cant work it all in. Let me tell you: my kids are 11 and 14 so it is MUCH simpler to find me time, plus, Im self employed so i can much more easily work in the workouts. : )
Good luck!
craftycat says
Congrats Cathy! I lost quite a bit of weight and got down to a size 6 but gained it all back and back to size 10 and approaching a 12 now. Your posts have inspired me to lose the extra pounds and I bought a pedometer and joining weight watchers on-line! Thanks for the inspiration!
Kim says
You Look HAWT!! Way to go. Revel in it. I think we all would.
Mary says
You go girl. You are rockin’ those jeans. Congratulations you look amazing. Soon I’m gonna be rockin’ some 10 jeans (I’m 6 ft tall so 8 might be out of reach for me). Thanks for putting yourself out there for all of us to be inspired by.
michelle says
Kuddos to you…you look great!
Jennifer says
Way to Go! You look great in those jeans! I would’ve loved to see the smile on your face when you bought the jeans! I hope you made the sales associate wonder why you were so happy!
Thank you for the daily inspiration to eat less, move more. I got the eating down, I just need to find the time to move more!
Brigitte says
Hi Cathy! I just want to say two things…congrats! and wow, you are an inspiration! I have started my own journey 3 weeks ago and down 4.5 pounds. Woohoo! Your blog is an inspiration in many many ways. thanks:-)
Laurie says
Congratulations. Health and all is good but size 8 jeans are another thing all together!
Nina says
Wow, you look amazing!! Seriously cool jeans and that blouse – looks darling!
I have to say: I’m a lurker. I read your blog all the time (I read many blogs, but “reading” most often refers to “looking at the pictures” and occasional commenting) and I enjoy your writing a lot. I’ve been a follower before you started training and such, so I have to say I am really amazed by your progress. Giving up smoking AND changing your life – you make such an effort and it’s seriously inspiring to see what you achieved. Best wishes from Germany 🙂
Yolanda says
Size 8 jeans!!! Go you. You look fantastic. Thank you for your continuing honesty about how you’re feeling and up and down moments inside, regardless of what the scale is doing. It really has been great following along on this journey with you. And if it works for you, I hope you keep it up, even after you reach your goal weight. There are many of us who understand that any day could be the first step toward unravelling all this work, and we’re happy to cheer you on, while you “maintain.”
Leslie says
Congrats!! You are doing so fabulously on your eat less, move more. You look terrific in those jeans. Can you tell a girlfriend, what cut and style are they?
Barb says
You look AMAZING, Cathy! You’ve worked so hard – you SO deserve those size 8 Luckys.
As I sit here, examining my muffin top that just won’t go away, I realize that, at age 41, I need to tweak my eating habits if I want that to change. I’m not obsessed about it – nor does my doctor want me to be (I asked) – but my vanity (and your new jeans photo!) is making me think that it’s time to tackle this issue once and for all.
Of course, it doesn’t help that I live with two very active boys who want to and CAN eat treats and sweets and all sorts of tempting things, all on top of their fruits, veggies, dairy, meat and grains. I really need to have a fridge for them and a separate one for me. 😛
Katie Pegher says
Lucky’s are the best. Even at 7 months pregnant, I ordered me up a pair of Lucky Maternity jeans on ebay and boy, even though my rumpkus is twice the size it was when I started – I feel that in the Lucky’s it’s a bit more flattering.
P.S. You may wanna stop by my blog today. I have a layout there that gives you some serious props. Well deserved, I might add.
http://www.katiepegher.typepad.com
xo
Gina says
Congrats! Your before and after photos are so dramatically different now! I always see your tweets about how many miles you ran, in the morning, and I think…how does she do it and I wish I was more like her. I want to lose at least 25 pounds. I “wog” (my nickname for walking and jogging) with my Nike Plus. Just have to be consistent – like you have been. You deserve kudos for being consistent and determined.
cathy says
hey, 4.5 pounds in three weeks sounds good to me!
good for you!
cathy says
Hello over in Germany, Nina! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
cathy says
I think i will keep it up, because if I think Ive got it licked, im certain it will come back to bite me in the, ahem, tushka. : )
cathy says
They are the Sweet and Low!
: )
cathy says
Keep in mind, Barb. I still have a muffin top. Thats next up on the plan. Tighten and tone, if its even possible. I honestly dont know if that part is changeable!
cathy says
Gina, its just that I keep at it. It doesnt hurt that ive decided i really like to get out there and run. And trust me: I run in the 11 minute per mile range. Im no speed demon! But im steady, and I keep at it. : )
cindy b. says
God I love reading your posts!! 😉 I am not in my goal size yet but can totally relate to the feeling of complete ‘awesomeness’ when getting new clothes. It feels great no?! 😉 Don’t get to hung up on the numbers and the scale. Lots of great changes going on INSIDE of your body that you can’t see. Besides, regardless of the numbers..no one can put a price on that kick-ass feeling that comes from working hard and being rewarded with having clothes that FIT! GO CATHY GO!!
ps. No matter how long it takes to lose the last amount of weight I am (and you should be too) totally happy with all of your success!!!
Gabi says
LOL. Go there and do some shopping, girl!! And have fun! 🙂
Cyn says
Cathy, all I can say is “WOW!”
When I looked at your jeans (size 8), I thought “oh cool” but when I saw the two pics side by side on your layout….
Insert jawdrop here…..”WHAT A TRANSFORMATION!” Oh, and YES, I am yelling it! Good for you for sticking to it and for dropping the weight and toning those muscles! Keep it up girly and I may be joining the ranks of running very soon if I can get results like that!
You are looking fabu-freakin-tastic!
ShellyJ says
WOW ! lookin’ good 🙂
Dana says
Way to go! Wow, size 8 jeans! I don’t think I’ve ever been a size 8. But I sure would love to get back into a 10. One day it will happen, it’s just going slow for me. But I’m not nearly as dedicated as you are, especially on the exercise front. Congratulations!
Angie says
You look AMAZING, lady! I haven’t run more than a mile since my 10k. You are inspiring me to lace up those shoes and get out there! Go YOU.
Dar says
Loving new jeans is a monumental moment; we girls know that! And as I looked at the side-by-side journal photos, I thought, “How in the world did Cathy manage to get taller??”
Keep up the good I mean GREAT work. I’m needing your inspiration today in a big way.
Dar
cathy says
Well, Angie, I hear baby joggers work AWESOMELY!
Heather Emans says
hot mama in your new jeans. feels good, huh?
alexa says
Fantastic achievement! And I hear you say it’s not a ‘resting-on-my-laurels-now’ kind of time. That sounds a useful antidote to the gremlin on your shoulder – keep whacking him with it! (mixed metaphors, but hey …)
anna says
man oh man! congrats cathy, those jeans INSPIRE i tell you! as well as your before and after!
but by golly i can’t see myself even capable of losing the 12lbs i need to. i’ve been saying i need to lose that much for 7ish years!
i know it isn’t that much to lose, but in my world along with the master sweet tooth; i’m in the losing end. 🙂
there, you got a ‘whiner’ comment 🙂
way to go cathy!
a
Nancy M says
Good for you!
Tammy B says
You look just amazing Cathy! Congratulations on all your hard work.
Kaylene says
Sheesh! Do you always get this much feedback to your blog? It must be exhausting to keep up! But don’t you feel loved?
Anyway… on the topic at hand. The jeans do look great and you’ve done an amazing thing to get where you are. And now, just as a joke, dare I mention P90X?
Ali says
Cathy, you look great! And you have a great attitude too. Congratulations. Enjoy it.
Caity says
Amazing! I’m so impressed. And I love seeing your monthly “tales”. It is always so inspiring and at least it has me thinking about moving more and eating less. Now to just take those thoughts and DO something. Thanks for sharing!
Jan C. says
You’re probably tired of hearing this (not!), but you look fantastic–healthy and full of energy. Congrats on the great new jeans.
So now that you know that it has taken 9 months to achieve your goal, what are your thoughts? Did you expect that, going in, or did you try not to think about it? I know you took more of a one-day-at-a-time attitude, and I’m wondering if that’s how you have to do it in order to get through it. I mean, if you had thought in December, “I’m going to eat less for the next 9 months,” do you think that would have fried your mind and stopped you from going forward?
cathy says
I love the feedback. Im seriously thankful for the commentary. Okay, my neighbors all went in on P90X together. They are kicking butts in their garages. Hmmm. I keep telling them Im going to crash their party…
cathy says
oh, that would have TOTALLY fried my mind. Totally. I plan to write about the full year once I hit January. I think people can think they can do it fast, and i have learned, you just cant. You have to be slow and methodical. And keep at it.
I mean, its been 9 months! : )
I had to approach it, For today ill do this…
It is getting easier, but it really is a conscious thing. Every day.
Jackie M says
Looking spectacular!
Kim says
You are a complete and total inspiration to me! I’ve been procrastinating taking a before pic … who wants to have “THIS” documented for generations to come?!! Gag! But I have finally started to take off a few of the pounds I gained after quitting smoking … okay so maybe its more than a few BUT I digress. Staying able to fit in those jeans might be inspiration enough for you, but if Im able to change my arms as much as you changed yours that will be even bigger motivation for me! You look fabulous! Thank you so very much for sharing your journey with strangers like me. You may never know exactly how many people you inspire, but please know you have inspired me.
Jen K. says
Wow…really wow. You. Look. Amazing! Way to go, Girl! *high five and fist pump* Truly awesome and inspiring!
Natalie says
Writhing with much admiration and even more jealousy here, Cathy. Way to motivate, girl! 🙂
cathy says
thanks, Kim. And good for you! : )
kerri Macdonald says
Congrats Cathy! YOu are so NOT vain! You worked hard for that “8” enjoy your new jeans! You deserve it! Thanks for being such an inspiration!
Tammy J. says
OMG!!!!! New size 8’s. That is AWESOME!! I’ve been following your journey and I think this time is for good. Just keep it up – I need the inspiration!! Cathy Zielske….YOU ROCK GIRLFRIEND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Laura Halmrast says
You mentioned that you eat your weekly allowance points too but do you eat the points you get from working out? I try not to eat those points but am eating my weekly allowance. I do have to dip into my exercise points every once in awhile but I really try not to.
cathy says
I do dip into exercise on occasion, yes. But not very often do i eat ALL of those too. Im earning around 25 to 30 exercise points a week, depending on if I do longer runs. : )
Shannon says
LOVE the jeans. And the yellow shirt. Where did you get it?
Kathy in MN says
Oh Cathy… BRAVO to you! Keep it up girl, you look fabulous!
cathy says
Lucy! : )
http://www.lucy.com/Zephyr%20Top/221011_SALE,default,pd.html?cgid=Sale_Topsdwvar_221011_SALE_color=LUCY%20WHITE
dawn says
YOU ARE HOT! AWESOME AND CONGRATULATIONS! now get me back on my bandwagon cuz I fell off after hurt my foot:(
Kellie says
holy crap Batwoman! You and your jeans iz HOT! And I had to move my Bloglines to Google Reader on the weekend and was able to set up folders to make the reading easier – guess where your blog went? Motivational Blogs, no question :o)
Candy says
The jeans look AWESOME. Congrats, I know how good it feels to wear something you look good in. Way to make it to Yummy-Mummy status!!
kristin says
man! you are getting it good. i have a baby sitter work works at that store and says that brand is the IT jean- so not only are you rocking a good size, but you are also hip. (duh) great job!
tami lyn says
Wow, I have to say congratulations. Your journey has been inspiring to follow. It is the kick in the pants that I need to get back on that horse.
As an aside – do you still knit? I was looking in the archive for the knitting pattern for those great little felted purses and I can’t find it. I lost my copy and it’s been so long since I made one I cant remember the instructions for doing the handles.
Keep up your amazing work!
Tami.
nitasha says
You look AMAZING! It’s so invigorating to see your transformation and I love the fact that you say it is a constant process! Congrats on your new jeans and the new you!
Jennifer Larson says
You look fabulous. And I love your yellow shirt too!
Jennifer McNeely says
You look GREAT – you should be really proud of yourself. Those jeans are SICK – as the kids would say. Maybe it’s a Canadian thing:) I’m not sure.
cathy says
aw, thanks!
cathy says
I am not knitting at all. Bad wrists! Also, i was told not to publish that bag pattern because i didnt have the rights! sorry.
Karen says
Nice job and congrats! I just had to share – I did Weight Watchers and lost the weight. I’ve actually done it twice now (after baby #2 and baby #3) and am currently in the maintenance period. It’s not hard at all and you can do it! You’ve been doing it for so long now that your brain is trained. You know about portions, you know what foods you can eat and can’t eat. The points are always in the back of my head and keep me on track, but don’t dictate what I eat. I also continue to exercise – strength and running. People ask me why I run. I do it because I enjoy it, but I also run so I can eat whatever I want and not feel guilty. You’re going to do great! Keep up the good work and don’t worry about the next step. It will happen and you will do it.
cathy says
I know for me too, the running is going to help with maintenance as well! : )
{vicki} says
Do you watch Dr. Oz? He has some great topics every day—but one of the things he repeatedly says is Eat Less–Move More!!!!!
Yesterday’s show was about just loosing 10 pounds andhow if lowers cholesteral, lowers blood pressure, among several other things.
check it out!—its a great show!
cathy says
I never see his show, but i love Dr. Oz! Love that he says that. Have you ever made his famous Green Drink? YUM! Google it!
amy says
Congrats! So awesome. Your posts and honesty are really helpful. I’m stuck at the can’t get going stage, but yet think about it all the time. So get. moving.
Can I ask what your current fitness plan is (how many days of running, biking, swimming, rest?) Also did you do any weights or toning exercises? I think the thought of trying to fit it in when exhausted (except I know losing weight would help) + kids school 3rd and 4th grade + kids sports + life…
Way to go!
cathy says
Sure, Amy.
Well, right now… Sundays are rest days. Ideally, I will run 4 days and then bike or swim on the other two. One day is a longer run (5-6) miles, and the other three runs will be between 30 and 40 minute runs. I think thats going to be easier on my body than trying to continually bump up my running mileage.
Again, id like to be running 4 days, but i need to pay attention to what my body is telling me. I am having some minor plantar fasciitis issues in one of my feet, and Ive taken to sleeping with a love contraption called a Strassburg Sock to alleviate heel pain. Seems to be helping. Plus, i stretch really well after the runs.
Im also doing strength now 3 days a week with this new contraption called a Kefty. I am going to see what i think about it before i share with blog readers. But, my friend invented it and its a really lightweight, cool thing for strength training!
: )
Shaunte says
“In the single digits….(In the single digits!)!”
-Sung to “single ladies”
Looking hot with your tiny, cute bum! 🙂
I think you should be going by the name Eight. Like a gang thing.
canadacole says
Cathy, could you post your stretch routine or point us in the right direction one of these days? I just started Couch to 5K and I THOUGHT I stretched properly afterwards. Except that I can feel my muscles seizing up. I’d love to have a list of stretches I should be doing!
Size 8! Yay you!
cathy says
ha! i love it!
cathy says
OH man, i dont know the names of any of them… i mean, i do hamstring stretches, and quad stretches. I squat down post run and feel a really great stretch in my glutes. I lay on my back and cross one leg over the other then pull back on one leg and it also stretches the glutes. I do a downward dog to stretch my calves and my feet.
Then, i roll the heck out of my butt muscles on my foam roller. It hurts, but oh, then it feels pretty good.
I feel tightness all the time, really. Some days, not as bad. Im always leaning side to side to try and stretch out my hips too. They get very tight and sore from the runs!
canadacole says
TypePad HTML Email
That’s good! Thank you Cathy! I think I did all of those
except the downward dog. I’m glad to know that a little stiffness isn’t too
unusual J
From: TypePad
Suzy Reap says
Just chiming in to say that Lucky Brand jeans are the best! I started wearing them last year and haven’t worn any other jeans since. I’m sure a very helpful salesperson mentioned their 50% off sales, right? I think the next one is right after Christmas. You won’t think twice about buying them at half off. 🙂
cathy says
what? no they did not! yeah, that would make it less painful!
Vanessa M says
You look awesome! What an accomplishment!
Monique van Duren says
Wow Cathy! I am so proud of you. You look awesome in your new jeans and what an achievement!!! It feels so good. I know, because I lost quit some weight too.
Thanks for sharing your story. I know it inspired me and also many others.
Monique
dmatthews says
Cathy,
Wow you look really great in your new jeans. Good for you!!
Andrea says
Woo Hoo for the size 8 jeans!
I am going to have to look for some of those for myself. My shape changed when I lost my weight, and my old standby jeans brand doesn’t fit right even when I get the right size.
Keep it up – and keep posting to your blog about your journey. You help a lot of us stay inspired and motivated.
tamara says
Cathy, you are my inspiration! I started reading your blog for the scrapbooking but I now read it for the person. I feel like you could be one of my closest friends. Keep going girl you are doing amazing!
AniB says
You look great! Size 8 new jeans — congrats!
cathy says
: ) Thanks, Tamara!
Jea. says
this is awesome! you look great in your lucky jeans! and i do hope you tossed your old jeans!!!!
Lydia Wiley says
Cathy, You are an inspiration to me! I have been a weight watcher for over 10 years now both as a member and a leader. After a year of crazy transition, including a move to New Zealand, I am well over my goal. I have been working by exercising and journaling trying to get back to that goal. I know hard work and persistance will help me to get there. Seeing you say eat less, move more took me right back to the days of encouraging my members to do the same. Thank you for the encouragement and the inspiration you give. Your story and pictures will help me keep my determination to beat the bulge! Size 8’s are on my horizion!
Tracy Blanton says
Cathy-
I’ve been on the same journey and am down about 14 pounds and stronger than ever. And you know what? I love getting dressed in the morning because everything fits or is loose! Not to be shallow, but it really does affect my mood. I was battling ‘the muffin’ and I didn’t realize how it was weighing me down in more ways than one…
Keep it up sister!
Tracy
cathy says
Way to go Lydia! And what a lovely place to move to! : ) My visit there was the trip of a lifetime!
cathy says
It totally affects mood. I felt so cute yesterday in jeans that fit, a form fitting thermal knit tee shirt, and my new Columbia black vest. So cute in fact, i plan to wear the same clothes today! ha!
Melanie L. says
Woohoo, Cathy! Your ROCK and you look awesome in those new size 8 jeans!!!
Melanie L. says
Okay, that was supposed to read “You ROCK”! That typo does lessen the impact a bit… 🙂
denise:) says
Look at how CUTE you are in that awesome outfit!! WTG!
kim smart says
Wow, cathy, you look totally awesome in those jeans! i’ve been keeping up with your journey and it’s so good to see how much you’ve progressed and stayed the course! size 8, i can only dream. and of course keep on walking and trying to eat less! i started a little weight loss adventure of my own back in may, not a diet, just eating better and walking for an hour several times a week! i’ve lost 31 lbs and really feel great but the last few weeks i seem to have lost my excitement and determination to stay on this path! i’ve done this before. lost a little weight, gained back a little more….but i just wanted to say that after dropping in today to read your blog post i feel like i can get motivated again! i just love your honest posts about everything and just wanted to say, thanks for the push 🙂 i dont want to go backwards anymore, i want to keep on keeping on, if ya’ know what i mean!! thanks cathy and now im going to put on my walking shoes and go on my walk for the day! it’s beautiful outside here in charleston, sc! temp today is around 85 and almost no humidity! yeah!
cathy says
Go Kim! I know that point too, and ive been there. I lose weight, then i say, Well, now what?
Hang in there! I keep telling myself this time is different, because this time is about taking care of the one body I have and trying to make it happier and last longer!
Alicia says
Woo Hoo! Congrats! I have never been so free with my money buying new clothes as I am now that I am skinny again. Enjoy the jeans girl!
Deborah says
so excited for you!! I lost my weight and have been happily maintaining it for a year now!! Thanks for sharing your story.. I wish I would’ve taken a picture of myself during the process more like you did.
~Michelle says
Hi Cathy — I just want to tell you that you have inspired me. I have been reading your posts and seeing how you have started a running program. I have always wanted to be a runner. I love running. Every year or two, I try and start a running program and I always fail. Mostly it’s bc I have this terrible problem with pain in my lower legs. Not in the shins, in front, but along the sides. No matter how I stretch, no matter how slowly I start, it always comes. I have even tried switching shoes. And sooner rather than later I am in so much agony I can’t even hobble home. If I try and push through, it gets worse, until I give up.
Through all of this I have thought, if only I was not forced to restrict myself to these cheap running shoes ($35 range). But I know other people run. People have been running since before there were expensive shoes. What is wrong with me? What was I doing wrong???
So this past Wed I decided to try again. I bought a sports bra and a workout top ($1 at WalMart! that is my price range). I bought a cheap fanny pack to hold my iPhone, I looked up the times of various songs, and I signed up for a daily running email with a workout. The first one could not have been more easy. Walk briskly 5 minutes, jog slowly for 60 seconds, walk 60 seconds, repeat 5 times, then walk 5-10 minutes to cool down. Easy, right?
So I suited up and headed out. The 5 min walk was great. I listened to “Barracuda” baby. Then I began jogging. It felt really good. I went very very slow. I used the timer on my phone and slowed to a walk after a minute. Walked, then jogged again. I started to feel some twinging in my legs. Usually it takes a lot more for it to start. I slowed down, stopped and did some extensive stretching. Started again. Jogged, walked. The 3rd time, I could not do it. I could not jog. I tried, but the pain was so bad.
So there I was a half mile from home, and I couldn’t even walk without agonizing stabbing pain.
I finally hobbled home, and I really wondered if I would make it. The thing is, I barely broke a sweat. But after I sat down for a while and got some water and took a shower BABY did I feel good! Except for my legs of course. They still hurt.
Sorry for the long comment here but I am not ready to make a long blog post about running yet.
Cut to today. It’s gorgeous out. I see people running and I want to do it. I want to feel that good. The mental clarity, the alertness, the desire for water, not diet soda. I crave all that. So I looked up a running shoe store online and went (getting there was a giant trauma – gee thanks for blocking off all access to that part of town for a weekend festival! grr). I just thought I would do some research and ask some advice. I am SO not in a position to spend $100 on shoes unless they are magical unemployment-foreclosure-banishing shoes.
Well this girl in the store was incredible. She looked at my feet and told me what no one else ever has. First I have high arches, which I knew. And most running shoes are designed with arch support, since most people need that. And all cheap shoes are pretty much for arch support. And that I needed a much bigger shoes since running makes your feet swell, so my perfectly fitting shoes were actually too small.
Then she had me walk barefoot back and forth. She told me since I had high arches I am rolling out from the ankles a bit as I walk.
THAT IS THE SOURCE OF THE PAIN.
The shoes I have bought feel fine on my feet as I wear them and walk in them, but since they are designed for people who need arch support, I am rolling out even more to compensate, and that is why I was in so much pain. And why it got worse.
!!!!!
Then she had me try on several pairs of “moderately prices shoes” (oh HA HA HA are you kidding me???). I ran in them. Keeping in mind, I was still feeling twinges of pain in my legs from jogging that little bit 2 days ago. And there was not much space so I had to change direction a lot. But I put them on and I ran, back and forth and back and forth.
I ran! Not jogged! RAN. OMG! I cannot believe it! it was amazing! I felt like I was FLYING. There was no pain. I barely felt my feet at all, and when I did it felt like I was running on a cloud. I wanted to run out the door and down the street. I tried 3 pairs and I ran in all of them. I broke a light sweat. I never got tired of it. It was like floating!
So now I am the owner of a pair of $99 running shoes. And a pair of $7 socks (holy crap). Did I mention my workout top was a dollar??? It has really been reading your entries and how you have gone step by step that encouraged me.
I don’t know if I’ll be a runner but I will tell you what will get me out of bed, it’s knowing I spent $100 on the damn shoes, and I want to get my money’s worth.
cathy says
So now im dying to know: what shoes did you get?
Also, you might think about reading Chi Running. I swear, it is helping me to run pain free. Doesnt mean i dont have tight hips and a bit of PF, but… it really makes sense!
~Michelle says
uhhhhmmm I actually don’t know, since I left them in the car so I could go to class and I am still on campus. They are very similar to these
http://tinyurl.com/2ehroh7
ASICS GEL-Nimbus 12
Ok Chi Running, will do – thanks!
HCG Diet says
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