At the table in the kitchen, there were three bowls of porridge. Goldilocks was hungry. She tasted the porridge from the first bowl.
"This porridge is too hot!" she exclaimed.
So, she tasted the porridge from the second bowl.
"This porridge is too cold," she said
So, she tasted the last bowl of porridge.
"Ahhh, this porridge is just right," she said happily and she ate it all up.
If you're a human, you're probably familiar with this classic tale. The whole idea of one being too something, another being too something, and the third one being just right.
As I created this little photo display, I couldn't help thinking of Goldilocks and the idea of just right.
Granted, what is just right for me?
That svelt 141 pound shot might seem like the obvious choice. Of course that would be just right! Who doesn't want to be the fittest version of themselves?
After 2 years and 8 months of Moving More and Eating Well, I find myself quite literally splitting the difference between chubby and thin.
And here's a secret: that hasn't exactly been my goal. Still, I can't help but have some observations.
1. Even with a 40-pound swing, my butt will never be flat. It sticks out. It always has. Granted, many a man (okay, specifically Dan Zielske) likes a baby with a little back. I can deal with this one.
2. I can almost feel how hungry I was in October 2010 just by looking at that photo.
3. I was sucking in my stomach in January 2010 and you would not have known that had I not just told you.
4. I have a much better sports bra than when I started.
5. I have made changes in my life that far exceed simply meeting the requirements of fitting into a pair of size 8 jeans.
6. Even after nearly three years, I haven't thrown the towel in on trying to make the best choices for me, my life and my body.
Even though the weight gain might point to the contrary.
As many of you know, I lead a monthly workshop at Big Picture Classes called Move More, Eat Well. I was toying with the idea of not doing it again for 2013, mostly for fear of being the big old loser who apparently stopped losing weight. Who wants to take a class with someone like that?
But I realized that was just my fear talking; the fear that gives me the permission to throw in the towel; the fear that looks an awful like like a child who isn't willing to step up and do what is needed; the fear that tells me 'give it UP, already. You know you can't do this."
But I'm losing patience for that voice these days.
I'm losing patience for the so-called inner critic. I'm trying to make more room for reality to move into my life.
Yes. I'm chubbier than I want to be. Yes, I know how to make the changes that are both needed and desired. No, I'm not ever going to be a tiny little thing.
But I sure as hell am not done trying to live a healthier life, one that isn't a slave to my whims and cravings.
I'm still plugging away.
How are you doing on your journey to better health and fitness? All stories welcome and encouraged.
Kendra B says
You know, I think you look fantastic! and I’m not just saying that because I’m a huge fan LOL I do hope you offer the class again because people can relate to you and what you say and what you do. You keep it real and I think most people like that in an instructor. I’m still moving, but the whole eating thing is what gets me down. I have all these “things” (that I’m not going to list here) that are going on in my life and so I have all these “reasons” that I can’t eat the way I know I should. On paper they sound like true reasons, but in the back of my mind I can’t help wondering if they are actually just excuses????
Amit Sharma says
Beautiful,Really nice blog,your creativity is alive !! good going.
I am Photographer at http://www.indianinstituteofphotography.com
Mona S says
I am 4 weeks into what I hope can be a life change and not a diet. Trying to lose the 25 pounds that I have gained and lost 3 times over the past 15 years. I think the key is not to throw in the towel. Even if you backslide all the way (or even more, as in my case this time) you have to make the right (not easy) choices and just keep swimming! One blog that has really motivated me lately is http://www.mamalaughlin.com. Keep swimming – you are trying to be the best you and it shows!
Ann Marie says
So do you think your consult at Nutritional Weight and Wellness was worth it? I have been thinking about going there. Would you recommend it? Thanks!!
Paul B says
I say keep at it! There’ll be plenty of people who are willing to follow you on your journey especially if you’re honest. Everytime I lose a bit, I gain a bit. It’s an ongoing battle & I love to read about your success but I lose no respect or credibility for you when you write or video about those hours, days, weeks or months where it isn’t going as well for you as you’d wish. We can all relate and want even more to join your journey as it’s as honest a life as ours is. Pxx
kybarb says
Still plenty to talk about for another year of MMEW! I’m learning and reading and working on it and would love to sign up for another year of your help!
Laney says
Love this Cathy. Thanks for your honesty!
cathy says
Kendra, I hear you. And I am definitely planning the class again. Im going to make the monthly page a bit simpler. More of a straight up one page or two page design. : ) Hang in there. I have excuses all the time. ; )
cathy says
Hang in there! Ill check out that blog.
cathy says
I do, actually, even though Im not completely following what they told me to do. Its the whole idea of eating in balance to keep your blood sugar in balance and your hormones as well. I do believe that is key to getting rid of the cravings, but I havent been hitting the nail on the head often enough.
cathy says
Thanks, Paul. : )
Jenny S says
I just want to say THANK YOU for being honest and inspiring me. I have been struggling with being “alright” with my weight for a while now, and your honest thoughts are so helpful. Glad to hear that you’re doing another year of the class. I just might sign myself up this year. (finally remembering that I am worth spending a little money on!)
Mrs. V says
I can definitely understand how it is on-going with ups and downs. I have had a hard time maintaining healthy choices as eventually my focus seems to swing back to something else (like writing my dissertation) when trying to still maintain enough time with family. There are certain times when I think about just needing to be okay with how I am for the moment, trying to keep things in perspective. I really hope that you do teach the class again in 2013. I know that it would be helpful for me!
Aino says
What a great post Cathy!!! You rock – whatever size. 🙂
Annika Elgale says
I’ve been struggling with weight problems all my adult life. I’ve joined Weight Watcher’s 16 times, started hundreds of diets on my own, and got a Gastric Bypass in 2005, lost 82kg and a couple of years later my old habits sneaked up on me and I also had to babies, 2 years apart… So I gained almost 50kg… I’ve felt like a big failiure. But now, since Febryary 13th, I’ve found my way. I’ve realized I’m a carb junkie, and have to exclude lots of things from my diet. Now and forever. If I even taste a bit, I’ll be hooked again. So with a low carb diet and lots of exercise, I’ve lost 31,5kg! (almost 70lbs) Still lots of weight to lose, but this time I know I’ll make it. My changes are for life. Good luck!
Benita says
Cathy, your post is so inspiring! Back in 2008, I joined a gym & within a year, I lost over 60 pounds, but sadly, menopause hit & then my Mom passed away in December of ’09 & I have gained 40+ of it back 🙁 Some days I get so disgusted with myself because it now seems that no matter how hard I try, the weight just won’t come off! Like you, I’m never gonna be a tiny little thing….I’m 5’9″ & very big boned! But I’m not gonna give up, either….I walk almost everyday, but I really need to get back into the gym. Thanks for pushing me 🙂
chris says
While I did not join the BPC group, I did jump on the bandwagon in January and have been plugging away myself all year long. As of now I am on my third plan/program. The first two did not work at all, despite doing them every day. I actually got a little bigger this spring with a few more pounds and inches creeping on (and this, while on Jillian Michaels Body Revolution….that’s right, my body revolted! ha, ha,). As of June, my daughter and I have been walking (me, more than she) and I added some daily weight lifting. Finally, after five years of steady increases, I am losing a few inches overall and the clothes are fitting more comfortably. What confounds me is that when I was younger (and before thryoidectomy) I could do just anything to lose weight and it worked quickly. Now its like I have to find that perfect workout, or combination of workouts, to get results. I bought a bunch of the Leslie Sansone DVDs and what we like about them is the people in them are “real” and have real bodies. They aren’t like some where they all look like gym rats and Miss Fitness USA contestants…although I have to admit that is what I/a lot of people would like to look like, despite our own realities and despite our knowing better. I guess that desire will always be festering in the background even know otherwise.
K says
Ran a half last weekend and the running felt great. The allergic episode it brought on, not so much. (Did you know you could be allergic to running?) But it is such a physical/mental/emotional balm that I’m already training for another (with doctor’s okay and an epi-pen in my pocket.)
I’ve dropped nearly ten lbs from the beginning of the year, with my only solid goal being to better like what I see in the mirror. And I do.
Your story is inspirational–thanks for keeping up with the telling the whole story.
Rosann says
I think it’s really cool and brave how you have publicly shared this journey. it’s very hard to do and I commend you.
Brooke says
Wow I really needed this today…I’ve gained 10lbs this summer and have been really down on myself about it. I feel like I have the exercise down, but the food part I just can’t seem to wrap my mind around. Your post always inspire me and I thank you for that. I know I’ll never be a “skinny” girl but I wish that some days I could just feel good about where I’m at, and not look in the mirror and criticize myself. Anyways…thanks again for keepin’ it real 🙂
April Storie says
I prefer the toilet seat down photo! lol – great work, Cathy.
Sarah says
As always thanks for keeping it real! I too will never have a flat butt and I’m cool with that!
may says
I’ve been loosing a pound a week all summer long – for the first time in my ENTIRE life. I’m still in fat girl zone, but it gets less so each week. I’m not hungry, and I eat as much as I want. I can do a real push up. I’m getting smaller. I don’t need much sugar.
how? Well girl, I already told you and I’ll say it again. http://www.nerdfitness.com – great resources. awesome info. STRENGTH training you can do from anywhere and without a gym.
I’m also gonna suggest you read “It Starts With Food” – INCREDIBLE. Stacy J is doing their 30day challenge now. I will also suggest http://www.marksdailyapple.com
Happy, strong, healthy, and keeping it simple over here. Rockin’ it one day at a time…
Leora henkin says
Perfect. I love the “just right” you. Thanks for sharing this today. A perfect way to start the week. You are the best!
Tracy Smith says
I can so relate. I’ve been doing WW for about 2.5 years. At my best, I’d lost 72 pounds. Now, I’m back to having lost 68 pounds. I promised myself that I’d only let myself gain back 5 pounds before I started to worry and hit things hard again. Needless to say, it has been very hard lately to stick to that because this girl likes to eat and drink!
jacquie says
I fell off the MMEW wagon in April after having surgery. At that point I had lost about 12 of the 25 pounds that was my target. Just about the time I felt comfortable getting back to moving more, I broke two ribs while lifting an extremely large concrete brick. I am totally in the dumper right now. I have put back on 3 of those 12 pounds, but it feels like 30! I am just about ready to get back at it again, but have to wait for bone scan to make sure all is well.
You are incredibly inspirational Cathy. That 3 pounds could have easily have been 10, but your constant reminders that life sometimes throws us a curve, and it is okay to have setbacks as long as we remember to get back up. For that, I thank you.
audrey says
Hi Cathy,
In reference to the previous comment from May, I was trying to remember if you said you were starting the 30 day challenge from It Starts with Food. I’d love to know how that works, like you could be our guinea pig, lol!
cathy says
May, I read it. I did. And I am actually toying with the idea of doing the Whole 30 when i return from a little vacation were taking this week to Chicago. (Cant do Whole 30 in a hotel, man!) But yes, I did bookmark Nerdfitness and I need to just DO it. : )
Vanessa R says
Good for you on sticking with it. I often am frustrated with my weight, I could stand to lose another 20/30 pounds but it hasn’t been happening. I am a few pounds heavier than last summer..however I can now run 3-5k and lift weights and do other assorted exercise things that I couldn’t. So while my weight is driving me nuts I can tell I am stronger and fitter. The scale does not always tell the whole story I suppose.
cathy says
Yep. Its on my plan. Im going to chicago later this week for a little family getaway weekend, and then hoping to come back and give it a whirl. Mostly to see: how do i feel? How do grains really affect me? Etc. : )
Gail says
Thank you! I have been doing the MMEW for about 1.5 years. I have been getting discouraged lately with lack of obvious progress and had put off taking my picture and measurements for the month as I wasn’t sure I would be happy with the results. After reading this, I will be making sure to do so ASAP. Just needed the reminder that it is all part of the journey. 🙂
Christine Guest says
With the cute piping detail on the princess seam in your top I can’t see much difference between the middle and last photo. Yeah sticking with it, yeah pretty clothes!
But the bathroom definitiely looks a lot better with the seat down.
cathy says
That toilet seat! Ha!
Laura says
I’ve lost between 25 and 30 pounds since the beginning of December. It’s been primarily a function of eating less and a bit smarter (no angel here) — I still haven’t fit the “move more” piece into my life. That’s the piece I need to work on now. I’m signed up for the BPC class, but haven’t been checking in much. The Lose It website is a useful tool — I told it I wanted to lose 50 pounds this year and it calculates how many calories a day I should eat. I don’t use it every day — I check in periodically when I feel like I’m being lackadaisical.
Jen Hart says
It helps so much having people be honest about how it is going. I really don’t know why I put the rubbish in my mouth the whole darned day sometimes, I prefer nice healthy food, so why? The scientist that can identify and fix that gene/urge is the next ruler of this world. I am not blaming my genes I am clear that I make the choice, but you know what I mean. There is something there.
hannahk says
Whoo hoo cathy you look amazing…I have loved your journey and, having taken a year off from classes, really hope you’re running one next year so I can join 🙂
I’m reminded of Courtney’s post for Ali about life’s ups and downs and real life is the moments in the middle…it fits so perfectly http://aliedwards.com/2012/07/summer-voices-courtney-carver-the-real-meaning-of-life.html
Darcie Naylor says
I love reading your blog. I even thought about taking the Move More class, but decided not to commit. Boo me! Over the course of the last few months, however, with your occasional posts about moving more, you have inspired me to indeed Move More. I found my bike in the garage, pumped up the tires and have gone out riding in our neighborhood several times over the last couple of weeks. I am committing to riding that bike at least four times a weeks. I don’t go far, but I do go – and that’s the point, right? Who knows, this might be such a good experience, I’ll even commit in 2013 to your Move More class.
Still working on the Eat Well part, but that will come.
Peggy M says
I really HOPE you continue for 2013 (and beyond) and not for us but for you! And seriously, take another look at 2010 & 2012. The number on the scale does not define those “differences” & you look amazing in both. I propose it be “Eat Well & Keep Moving” for 2013 but that is at least what I’ll be doing. I’ll commit again because I know that I am eating better than I ever have. I have the monthly check in which is important. It keeps me accountable. And, the support of knowing there are others out there trying to make healthy changes is great.
julie b says
Bravo for your honesty! I think you look great….still! 😉
I started running 2 years ago, lost 20 pounds (by cutting my portions and being more selective in what I ate) but I gained 10 pounds back in the past year. While I am not thrilled with my body rolls, I am learning to be happy with my body as it is. I have not been running near as much as I was, but I do still run. The most important thing to me is that I am in shape and healthy…even if people look at me sideways when they find out I’m a runner. Yes, I may be a thick runner, but I can run circles around their skinny out of shapes butts! I enjoy foods that don’t lend themselves to super skinny figures but I am not willing to give up these foods entirely, so I enjoying them still just a bit less of them.
As for your bootie…be thankful you have some junk in your trunk! My flat as a pancake bootie is depressing and the more weight I lose the flatter it gets! Sadly I carry all my bootie and boobs in my boobs! =( No fun considering real big boobs do not have the perkiness of fake big boobs! =P
Keep up your good work and don’t let that number on the scale rule your life…allow yourself to love your body and keep it fit.
Margy Eastman says
Ditto on looking great – and think how much stronger you are! I bottomed out at 141 as well…and wondered how I was going to maintain that long term. Well, I didn’t. I’ve gained back half of what I lost over the last three years, and now both Brian and I are back on WW. It seems that keeping weight off is easier without chardonnay. Who knew? I wish there was diet chardonnay, just like diet cola. Anyhow, I’m back to eating more sensibly and not being a slave to my cravings and destressing with sweets. I’m having a hard time squeezing the moving into the typical day, but I haven’t given up trying. So thanks for sharing and your honesty. And if you teach Move More, I’ll sign up…promise.
Valerie says
i’ve been losing and gaining the same three dang pounds since May. Working on a combo of protein shakes, Weight Watchers and water aerobics, and sumbeeyatch if i canNOT dump these same three pounds.
Frustrating is not the half of it.
But still i keep plugging along…signing up again for the next session of water aerobics, and trying not to think of the food trucks gathering a mile or so from work. :p
Jen S says
Oh Cath – I’ve fallen off your MMEW wagon! In fact, I fell off and the wagon ran me over, uttered ‘what was that?’, backed up over me and then realized it was nothing and then rolled over me again! I keep your e-mails in my inbox, like if I keep them there then I’m going to one day catch up… Likely dilusional, but that’s who I am about my weight/eating habits/ability to move/etc. How do you muster up the courage (and ignore the pain) to get into the wagon again?
cathy says
Thats a great question. I guess you just have to make up your mind to start again. I start again ALL the time. I really do. And it gives me the chance to learn a bit more every time I fall off. Its really about choices and responsibility. Im working really diligently right now and really focusing on choices and responsibility. And I take in everything I can find to help me understand what the best choices might be. You can do it. Just make up your mind, and keep trying. Its a life long process. You do what you can and when you make up your mind, you find you can do more than you thought.
Heidi says
Cathy, I love seeing this, and I do agree with you – so much better to be “just right”. I wanted to thank you for offering MMEW. I started in January, but back then I didn’t really start. It took me 5 months, then I started looking at myself. And MMEW made sense. I realized that I had to do it. So I’ve joined the runner’s “club” again. (It’s only me and my iPod.) I’m cutting down on the sweets. And I’m losing weight. Not much, but I’m not aiming for more than 6 pounds either, so I’m not in a hurry.
But to me, more important than losing weight, is the fact that I feel so much better when I run. I’m happier, less grumpy, and I can do more of what I like. And that’s why I’m going out to run tonight, even though the rain is pouring down and i just want to watch the olympics. I’m doing my intervals anyway. (Yes, I’m the same one.) Come join me! I’m on NikePlus. 🙂
Ann Marie says
Thanks. I’ve listed to their podcasts, so I understand their whole concept of eating and I mostly follow that, but something is still not working for me. I thought maybe they could help me figure it out. I will probably follow up with them. Thanks. Thanks for sharing your journey too. 🙂
Cyn says
“Even though the weight gain might point to the contrary.”
I don’t consider the difference between Oct. ’10 to Aug. ’12 a weight gain. I think your body is telling you where it wants to be when you are, for the most part, making healthy choices. You look great to me!
Suzanne says
Because of your recommendation, I started listening to the Nutritional Weight and Wellness radio show, talked to a nutritionist, and started eating the Weight and Wellness way about a year ago. I am so much healthier than I was before. My cravings for junk food, that I’ve had for 25 years, disappeared the day I started eating this way. I eat real food, meat and veggies and fruits and healthy fat. I don’t eat grains or dairy or processed foods, and it wasn’t that hard giving it up.
But the thing is, I only started losing weight a couple of weeks ago. They say that some people have to heal their bodies before they start to lose weight. I suppose I had a lot of healing to do after 25 years of a crappy diet. It’s been hard not seeing any weight loss, but the proof for me that this is the right way to eat is that I no longer have cravings.
I’m thinking about joining your class for 2013 because I actually might start to see a difference now. My goal when I started a year ago was to lose weight, and even though it’s been slower than I wanted, I am so glad that I’m on this path and the habits are firmly in place. I’ll get there (wherever “there” turns out to be). And it’s all because of your recommendation. Thanks, Cathy! I’ll be forever grateful to you. (And I don’t really see a difference between picture #2 and #3. I think you look great!)
Marianne says
As Bikram Choudhury (founder of Bikram Yoga) says: “Never too bad, never too old, never too sick, never too late, to start from scratch and begin again.”
On my health & fitness journey, I learned that self worth is not determined by the number on a scale or the size of my jeans. I aim for better, NOT perfection.
Paulette says
Loved your message Cathy regarding trying… after all, that’s really what it’s all about! Thanks to you I run… I NEVER would have tried it.I don’t love it but I love the simplicity of it! Tosca Reno’s Eat Clean program has the magic balance for me…most of the time lol!
Marilyn S says
Another great source on weight loss is The Smarter Science of Slim by Jonathan Bailor…. It really explains how our bodies use food. A calorie is not just a calorie….
charmaine says
fantastic effort Annika! you should feel very proud 🙂
charmaine says
You can do it Benita:) Shock that body…go to the gym…or even mix it up a bit, swim or lift weights….your body wont know what hit it:) Good luck!
charmaine says
Chris, the weights would be helping with the inches lost…way to goxx
Kathy L says
I love the concept of this class, but learned about it well into 2012. I am a New Year starter (no middle of the year with a year long class for me) and will definitely sign up for your class and will begin on January 1st, 2013. I am so excited to see what you have to offer and to share this with you! Thanks Cathy!
Tina says
Hey Cathy- you look great! Thank you so much for sharing your ups and your downs in such an honest and compelling way. I have really enjoyed participating in your BPC MMEW class this year. Seven months in I haven’t lost any weight, but I am so much more conscious of my food choices. A lot of baby steps that will eventually add up to a healthier, happier me.
charmaine says
That is true Vanessa:) You are doing great:) I lift weights and do Les Mills Body Pump classes, i run but my new goal is to run 5km non stop:)
charmaine says
we all struggle with the * i want it now* mentality:) I think you are doing a great job Cathy.
You inspire many people, myself included. Ive started to run thanks to you and i LOVE it!
Im not fast, im not good but i can do it.
I have a heap of inspirational photos around my computer and one of them says, *running is quality time with me*
We all need to breathe and as you say, just keep swimming, just keep swimming. When we make the right choices of what to put in our mouths, without really thinking about it then we have succeeded. Some days the over thinking gets us…does me anyway:)
Thank you for sharing your journeyX
Sarah says
Cathy, girl, your butt is amazing. Why would you ever want a flat one? Worry about other things if you must, but don’t ever worry about your butt!
Phyllis says
I’ve fallen off the MMEW wagon too. After starting WW last year, I lost 60 pounds, started walking and then running and ran a 5K. Did one a month for several months – then I hit the dreaded plateau where I’ve been for about 6 months. The same 3 or 4 pounds coming and going, and I got discouraged and quit moving for a while. About 3 weeks ago, I realized I can make better choices and feel better even if the weight stays the same. It’s a daily choice and not always an easy one. Thank you for sharing the ups and downs of your journey with us – it’s an inspiration!
Chris H says
Cathy..
I may have missed it…but do you strength train?…lift weights? And I’m not talking about the pretty pastel ones in the girl side of the gym..but the iron ones that get your hands and shirt all dirty when you haul them around. ???
Cardio only works so much for me….heavy lifting has done more for me in less time than running or biking ever did alone. I got a trainer for a little bit, but now I’m on my own and loving it.
Something to consider…
Tagyn says
Hey Cathy, I understand the challenge of trying to lose weight and accept the way you look at the same time.
Last month I went out of my comfort zone and ran in a race called Mud Hero. It was 6 kms with 15 obstacles and some mud thrown in for fun! I had some reservations about the race but I jumped in and loved it! It felt a little like a Biggest Loser challenge!
It felt good to try something new, finish and get really muddy in the process! It is good to try new things and mix it up a little! I highly recommend it and it was really fun 🙂
I think you look great and as long as you are healthy a few ups and downs are okay!
Stacey says
You have always been an inspirations to me, since beginning this journey almost three years ago. You are actually the reason I joined Weight Watchers this year. I have lost 26 pounds so far and now am in maintenance which is the scary middle place. Have you read the book Weight Loss Boss, by the CEO of Weight Watchers? It’s very good, talks a lot about keeping the weight off being the hardest part. There is definitely that happy middle grown between constant hunger and overweight. We I find myself putting weight back on it’s usually because I am not being honest with myself about what and how much I”m eating. For me, the realization that if I want to be at a healthy weight and be an active person as I grow older, I will always, have to think hard about food and exercise. It is something that won’t come to me easily and without effort. Somedays it’s exhausting to think about but on most days I wake up glad I’m in control and feeling better than I have felt in years. Continue on Cathy Zielske you are an inspirations to many. Love your transparency and authenticity.
sara stimple says
wow! you are BEAUTIFUL!!! I have just began moving my body and LOVE IT! i am jogging 3-4 days a week, and have never felt better. I too have gone up the scale and down and beat myself up all the time for it. But, for the past month, I see myself differently- not a number but as a strong person. I enjoy being outside and running through my beautiful backyard- which is como golf course. I appreciate what my body can do- AND for once in my life I am not working out to lose weight- but to gain perspective. Thanks!
cathy says
Ive not heard of this one! Might have to check it out!
cathy says
See you in January! : )
Cathy says
Yellow house key
cathy says
Oh, bless your soul. LOL! : )
cathy says
Chris, no. Ive dabbled and i KNOW that this is what I need to be doing. I really dont know what keeps me from it. Im really contemplating doing a series of personal training consults at my gym, to get back into doing this. : )
cathy says
Thanks, Stacey. I have not read it, but might have to pick that one up!
cathy says
Thanks! and hey, Como aint too shabby a neighborhood to run through! ; )
Lee says
The other bazillion folks leaving comments probably already said this, but without a magnifying glass and some calipers I can’t see the difference between October 2010 and August 2012!
I CAN see the difference between January 2010 and both of the other photos.
I know it matters most how you feel, but Kiddo, you look great!
I’ve mentioned this before, but your “invisible” health – BP, cholesterol, Triglycerides, glucose, lung capacity etc. – must be fantastic!
A healthy Cathy, wife and mom living to be 110 really is the bee’s knees and the bottom line!
;o)
– Lee
Lee says
“Strong Women…” all of the books and info by Dr. Miriam Nelson are great!
cathy says
Thanks, Lee! : )
Marjorie Nienhius says
I was so glad to read that you are indeed planning to do the Move More Eat Less Class next year! (huge sigh of relief here) I have been looking for something to help me with my weight loss journey and your works have always inspired me, made me laugh and just generally feel good. I thought I had conquered my weight issues then I had my little girl on Oct 31, 2010. Two weeks later she was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, almost two years later while my sweet girl is thriving, I cannot seem to move past my emotional barriers,pick myself up and get healthy. I look forward to the class and I am even considering signing up for this years. I want to be an example for my daughter. I think your class may just be the ticket! Thanks for keeping us all inspired!
chris says
Funny, the Jillian Michaels program had weights throughout, but I got absolutely no results with it – at all – and I did the entire program.
kristin says
when i was younger, and i was sitting in church watching older woman walk around i would be devastated by flat bums. i prayed for a rotund bum, and received that blessing. 🙂 honestly- flat bums are so overrated, AND embarrassingly enough, i literally would stand up and massage my bum a bit as we stood up/sat down through church because i was so afraid of having a flat bum.
be encouraged!
Kimberly says
Still losing. I am currently in a “stall.” However, I am well over 100 hundred pounds down!
Natasja says
I lost 20 kg last year with shakes etc to look beautiful in my wedding dress…I did! I love how I looked and how I felt than. Last May I gave birth to beautiful baby boy Aiden. During my pregnancy I gained all those kilo’s back….
I need to find the motivation to loose those kilo’s again and soon! I don’t want it to take as long as my first pregnancy p, 7 years, to loose them again!
I feel very double now…. I can’t stand it that I gained so much again but looking at that little boy it was worth it…but than again..I want to fit my clothes again!! But why do I keep eating the wrong things….?!
Every morning I think…today I am eating the right things…only to fail..
cathy says
Wow! That is a huge accomplishment! : )
Chris h says
Yes! Get some sessions with a good trainer. Additionally, New Rules for Weightlifting for Women is a great book. I also have been doing strong lifts program.
It is amazing what weights can do for the shape. I put on the skirt I wore to my 10th reunion at the same weight I am now…at number 20….and it fell off. I dropped 3 sizes between march and June…it’s the key to having the body you want.
kayleen burke says
Okay, so I’ve been following your weight loss the whole time and here are a few things you might not have thought of.
The fact that you were running and logging it was inspiration for me to finally start running. I’ve wanted to run the NY marathon since I was 13 and went to it to watch my uncle run. I have 2 kids, a husband and work full time. I can make up excuses with the best of them about why I can’t don’t have time to run but then you started and I thought, ‘If Cathy can, so can I.” I haven’t made it to marathon distance but I have run a 5k, 10k 5 mile and 1/2 marathon. You helped me do that.
I too lost weight and then gained it back. Knowing that I’m not the only one struggling with that helps me keep trying.
When I’m having trouble with the “why bothers” and “it’s not worth it”s I think of the story of the old man who, when asked what next at his 90th birthday, said he was going to learn French. They then asked, “why now?” His reply-‘If not now, when?” It helps remind me that I want to get in great shape and inspire my kids. If I don’t work on it now I’m only going to have to work that much harder tomorrow.
Hope that helps and thank you for yours.
Tiffany says
As one whose business in health and fitness, keep going. And please keep the class. =). Everyone’s journey towards a healthier, fitter version of themselves is different and they need (and are craving) those who are real, honest and have struggles in their journey. I have some of my own as well. I think we all can agree that the point is not to look like a supermodel (although who am I kidding..wouldn’t that be nice!) but to be a healthy person. Because I know I have a lot of life to live! Great post Cathy
borcherding says
Hi Cathy. 🙂 Glad I checked your blog today to see this post. As a rule, I normally check your blog on a daily basis but truth be told, I’ve been slacking. Not only slacking in the “blog checking” but also in being consistent with working out. Long story short… I lost almost 70lbs. by changing by eating habits completely and going to the gym 5 to 6 days a week: the past 9 months I no longer have a gym membership and my exercise days had been dropped down to 1 or 2 days and sometimes were non existent all together. Have i fallen back into some bad patterns? Hell ya. Have I gained some of the weight back but still am healthy? Of course! Do I feel as sexy as I once did? Negative. Have I remotely even kept up with this class? No way. Am I gonna beat myself up day after day? Absolutely NOT! Why? Because in the past 2 months I have had a renewed vigor for getting back to exercising consistently and eating right. I’ve discovered CROSSFIT classes and OMG! I am feeling muscles I’ve never felt before and it feels AWESOME!!! For awhile I was beating myself up because I had fallen off the path and I KNEW better….but, I have since realized that I am a HUMAN BEING. And, it is OK. 🙂 So, Kudos to you CATHY!!! For sticking with it and plugging along like the rest of us. Now, to get back to your class! 🙂
terri c says
To anyone out there who is REALLY struggling with losing weight, in spite of dieting and exercising properly, I just have to share with you this… to do 3 things:
1)Get your thyroid function checked (including T3 levels)
2)Get your hormones checked for perimenopause/menopause
and what really worked for me…
(correct any insufficiency there first! I have experienced 1st hand what low thyroid and hormones can do to your energy level, mood, sleep, LIFE. And fixing these imbalances has made a world of difference in my life.
3)Go on a VEGAN / WHOLE FOODS / NO REFINED SUGARS or STARCHES / ORGANIC / nonGMO DIET! This is a toughy at first, but you’ll feel wonderful if you stick with it, I promise!
– Get the “LoseIt” app. Set a goal of 1# weight loss a week and record everything you eat – ALL of it.
– Take a good all around daily supplement which includes B12 or make sure you drink or eat foods fortified with it. (Make sure the supplement is GOOD. You get what you pay for here.)
– Check out Jillian Micheals’ podcasts for inspiration and other “vegan” podcasts and blogs.
– Watch documentaries such as “King Corn”, “Forks Over Knives”, “Food Inc.” and “Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead” for inspiration.
I have lost 13 pounds in the past 3 months and
I haven’t even started back to exercising regularly yet! I have not suffered terrible cravings, because I haven’t set myself up for them – because I don’t flood my system with refined sugar, my blood sugar doesn’t crash.
I eat a lot of nuts, beans, whole grains like quinoa and sprouted spelt bread, and lots and lots of veggies! I avoid lots of sweet fruit, but treat myself to occasional dried apricots, KIND bar or coconut ice cream. I “cheat” very occasionally, so I don’t feel deprived. (really Dark Chocolate is good for you YAY!)
People have told me I’m looking “great” and my skin looks younger than my age. I feel healthier than I have in years.
I truly believe I wouldn’t be getting the results I am if I weren’t sticking to a “whole foods” type diet.
I have a degree in Medical Dietetics and am a Registered Dietitian, so I can assure you I know this type of diet can be super healthy, as long as you make sure you get all the nutrients covered.. and YES I you can get all the protein and iron you need! There are lots of topics out there like “glycemic index” which can help you in curbing the cravings too.
LuV ♥♥♥
Val Quiggle says
Good for you Mona! What’s your biggest challenge?
Val Quiggle says
Way to go trying more programs to find something that would work. Why do you think the Leslie Sansone DVDs worked better?
Val Quiggle says
I don’t know if everyone that commented will see this post but I wish they would.
First of all Cathy, I commend you on having these classes and gathering people. You are yourself and you show people your victories and your struggles. That’s important right, because we all have struggles!
The second thing I wanted to point out is that communities like this (like all these comments here) are what everyone needs. A place to talk about your struggles and victories and support each other everyday on your journey.
I don’t know a lot about all the other programs but I know about a method that provides fitness, nutrition (real food),and support which equals success. These programs worked so well for me.
I’d love to hear more of all of your stories and struggles…..you too Cathy. I want to put my email here in case someone want to contact me but I’m not sure if that’s appropriate. I’ll let Cathey decide.
Mrs. Whit says
A great post- and I want to share with you my husband’s mantra (and he really actually says this)…”A Tragic Loss of Bottom.” He cheers me up no end by truly finding some svelte women unattractive due to…a tragic loss of bottom. So embrace your mudflaps, because there are a lot of good men who can’t leave this (or your) behind.
Fairfax weight loss says
I missing 20 kg last season with drinks etc to look wonderful in my bridal outfit…I did! I really like how I seemed and how I sensed than. Last May I delivered wonderful child boy Aiden. During my maternity I obtained all those kilo’s returning.