I am so excited!! After several years of trying to convince my dad to start working out "with" me, he has today made a decision!
On Saturday, February 5, my dad will be turning 69 years old! My dad has been very active his whole life. From playing some sports in his younger years and farming as a teen and into his early adult life. He has always loved gardening and working outside. He cuts down trees and splits them the old fashioned way, with an axe! In his mid-thirties, he developed "Guillain-Barre Syndrome", which is a serious disorder that occurs when the body's defense (immune) system mistakenly attacks part of the nervous system. He was in the hospital for six weeks suffering chest-down paralysis from this disorder. He did recover from this and came home, but does have some long term residual affects. When he got home he started reading and did his own research. Ever since then he has been conscious of eating healthy, whole foods, hence the gardening. He is big into supplements and I believe all of this has kept him not only feeling younger but also looking very young for his age. If you were to meet him in person, you would not think he was even in his sixties. Some would say he looks in his 50's. But even being very healthy, he has added on weight slowly over the years. Since he is single, he does like to go out to eat more often than he should.
We've lived with my dad since June 2008. He hasn't said it, but I know my dad is very proud of me for how I have changed my life and am back on track with the way he taught us growing up. He sees how I eat and sees me working out in our garage. He has literally over the past four years watched me change right before his very eyes. Not only change my physique, but change who I have become. He has seen my struggles and has seen my victories over the past few years.
And now he sees me going at it again full force.
It is with great pride that I say he has decided to join me in training starting on Monday. He is going to start with Elaine's baseline training the first four weeks and then we will assess then how he is feeling and determine if he would like to do the whole WDA(Why Delay Amazing) program or to venture into Muscle. I will see if he will be willing to do some "before" photos and progress photos as he goes along. We will also do some measurements. I'll keep you updated as to his progress.
As with anyone, it is great to inspire someone to start, but it will be up to that individual to follow through. I know I have inspired three of my four siblings to start(several times over! lol), but it is up to them to follow through and press on. I will continue to set the example and show them it IS possible, to not only start, but to also follow through and get the job done. It is my hope that my dad will do just that, Follow through.
It doesn't matter how old you are when you start, what matters is that you do start. It's never too late!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Dare...Boldly 2011: T-182: Secretariat
"It's about life being ahead of you and you run at it."
I just got back from see the movie, "Secretariat." The following is a review of the movie "Secretariat" from a Christian point of view.. I love what they are saying and I think it speaks volumes to us going for our dreams and to give it all we got. It doesn't matter what other people say about us or whether or not we can do a certain thing. What does matter is that you believe in your dreams and you don't let anything stop you even when faced with "incredible odds." This movie really made me think of such a Champion right here.
'Secretariat” is an inspiring film based on the true story of a housewife and a horse who rise victoriously to overcome incredible odds.
“Secretariat” speaks to us all. To find what we were made for and to live it without regret. “Because you never know how far you can go unless you run.”
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
It is a story of perseverance through hardship and struggle. While history tells us the outcome, the film also tells us failure isn’t in losing the race, it’s in not running. 1 Corinthians 9:24 says to “…run in such a way as to get the prize.” The Contemporary English Version says “…run to win.” The heart of the story, like the scripture, is not in the actual winning, it’s in the effort, in giving all you’ve got.
As we prepare for and run our race, we must learn to stay focused on Jesus.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” —Hebrews 12:1-2.
“Secretariat” opened and closed with quotes from the Bible (Job 39:19-24)
Job 39:19-24 19 “Do you give the horse its strength
or clothe its neck with a flowing mane?
20 Do you make it leap like a locust,
striking terror with its proud snorting?
21 It paws fiercely, rejoicing in its strength,
and charges into the fray.
22 It laughs at fear, afraid of nothing;
it does not shy away from the sword.
23 The quiver rattles against its side,
along with the flashing spear and lance.
24 In frenzied excitement it eats up the ground;
it cannot stand still when the trumpet sounds.
or clothe its neck with a flowing mane?
20 Do you make it leap like a locust,
striking terror with its proud snorting?
21 It paws fiercely, rejoicing in its strength,
and charges into the fray.
22 It laughs at fear, afraid of nothing;
it does not shy away from the sword.
23 The quiver rattles against its side,
along with the flashing spear and lance.
24 In frenzied excitement it eats up the ground;
it cannot stand still when the trumpet sounds.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Dare...Boldly 2011: T-183:
Today's Eats: All good except for a bowl of raisin bran...I don't think that is on the plan. I am really wanting to stay away from any "processed foods" as much as possible. boxed cereal would qualify as "processed" to me.
Today's Workout: Steady State cardio on elliptical and abs. Got a good burn on the abs.
Today's Attitude: the day started out good. then had a bump mid morning. But I am "recovering" pretty good from it. I am really doing well not to dwell on the issue, as has been my past troubles with "bumps".
Today's Gratitude: I am grateful for a working mind. And that I am choosing to use it.
Today's Thoughts: I have so many thoughts. My mind is in full speed. I really need to sit down and sort it all out. I get all excited about an idea and thoughts just start pouring randomly out of my mind. I want to make the thoughts to come through clearly. So please forgive me for another day.
Today's Pics: sorry you will have to wait on those, too.
No matter what life throws at me, I will never quit!
No matter what mountains I am facing, I can be confident that God is bigger than any problem and able to carry me over any mountain!
I AM Unstoppable!
Today's Workout: Steady State cardio on elliptical and abs. Got a good burn on the abs.
Today's Attitude: the day started out good. then had a bump mid morning. But I am "recovering" pretty good from it. I am really doing well not to dwell on the issue, as has been my past troubles with "bumps".
Today's Gratitude: I am grateful for a working mind. And that I am choosing to use it.
Today's Thoughts: I have so many thoughts. My mind is in full speed. I really need to sit down and sort it all out. I get all excited about an idea and thoughts just start pouring randomly out of my mind. I want to make the thoughts to come through clearly. So please forgive me for another day.
Today's Pics: sorry you will have to wait on those, too.
No matter what life throws at me, I will never quit!
No matter what mountains I am facing, I can be confident that God is bigger than any problem and able to carry me over any mountain!
I AM Unstoppable!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Dare...Boldly 2011: T-185: Out of the mouth of Babes
Today's Eats: Good whole clean foods.
Today's Workout: HIIT with Abs...and a little bit of sledding hill climbs
Today's Attitude: I feel amazing. Determined. Inspired. Unstoppable.
Today's Gratitude: As I mentioned yesterday, part of quality community is a "coach" who believes in you! and helps you to believe in yourself! It is a coach who helps you to ask the right questions. Who teaches you how to think, Who cares about you and wants you to be the best you can possibly be! It is a coach who gives and doesn't expect anything in return, but for you to be the Champion you are born to be!
Today I want to say, Carlos DeJesus, I am so grateful for you! Thank you for your gentle and caring spirit. Thank you for being available to coach me and to encourage me to be the "Warrior Lady" I was created to be. Thank you for your continued guidance and wisdom. I will never tire of thanking you!
Today's Thoughts: "Out of the mouth of babes".
Today after the kids got home from school, my six year old, Daniel, and I went outside to get some sledding in. We haven't had too much snow so we have not been able to sled as much so far this year. Well, my Daniel likes me to pull him up the hill while he sits on the sled. As he is getting bigger and heavier it is becoming harder to pull him up the steep hill. So he asks me to pull him up. My immediate response was, "I can't do that, you are too heavy." He replies with, "Yes, you can mommy, just do your best." How can I refuse to at least give my best effort?! So up we go! As I start up the hill, he says this repeatedly, "Don't Stop! Never Give Up!" as I climb the hill. We get to the top and he's like, "I told you, you could do it!" So guess what my mantra was during my cardio tonight? "Don't Stop! Never Give Up!"
To give credit where credit is due, I believe he got this from watching a show on "Noggin" on TV which is an educational TV channel for preschoolers.
Today's Pics: no pics today.
Today's Workout: HIIT with Abs...and a little bit of sledding hill climbs
Today's Attitude: I feel amazing. Determined. Inspired. Unstoppable.
Today's Gratitude: As I mentioned yesterday, part of quality community is a "coach" who believes in you! and helps you to believe in yourself! It is a coach who helps you to ask the right questions. Who teaches you how to think, Who cares about you and wants you to be the best you can possibly be! It is a coach who gives and doesn't expect anything in return, but for you to be the Champion you are born to be!
Today I want to say, Carlos DeJesus, I am so grateful for you! Thank you for your gentle and caring spirit. Thank you for being available to coach me and to encourage me to be the "Warrior Lady" I was created to be. Thank you for your continued guidance and wisdom. I will never tire of thanking you!
Today's Thoughts: "Out of the mouth of babes".
Today after the kids got home from school, my six year old, Daniel, and I went outside to get some sledding in. We haven't had too much snow so we have not been able to sled as much so far this year. Well, my Daniel likes me to pull him up the hill while he sits on the sled. As he is getting bigger and heavier it is becoming harder to pull him up the steep hill. So he asks me to pull him up. My immediate response was, "I can't do that, you are too heavy." He replies with, "Yes, you can mommy, just do your best." How can I refuse to at least give my best effort?! So up we go! As I start up the hill, he says this repeatedly, "Don't Stop! Never Give Up!" as I climb the hill. We get to the top and he's like, "I told you, you could do it!" So guess what my mantra was during my cardio tonight? "Don't Stop! Never Give Up!"
To give credit where credit is due, I believe he got this from watching a show on "Noggin" on TV which is an educational TV channel for preschoolers.
Today's Pics: no pics today.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Dare...Boldly 2011: T-186: It takes a Community!
When it comes to conviction of our dreams and goals, if we persist boldly with an unshakable belief with faith by affirming out loud in confidence that which is truth (which is to know that if we incorporate certain actions—we will obtain a certain result) we can know that which we visualize with emotion and feelings will become a reality!
"It is also the needed ingredients for a powerful and successful Affirmation Statement." Carlos DeJesus
My dream of a tight, fit, photo shoot ready body is all but a reality because I train hard with intensity. I eat whole, healthy nutritious food that fuels my body for muscular growth and strength. I persist boldly with an unshakable belief with confidence in myself that I will follow through with unwavering focus and inner strength that comes from speaking truth. I am pumped and excited as I stand in front of the camera knowing I gave it my all and am reaping the rewards of my full on effort.
The rewards of my efforts is to have an awesome photo shoot in July 2011 in the best shape of my life. I live it. I breathe it. I am in the best shape of my life! I am Unstoppable!
Today's Eats: nothing but whole and healthy foods.
Todays' Workout: Muscle A. I rocked it out today!! woo! I upped my leg extensions by 15 lbs.(up to 115 lbs) and still rocked the reps! wooo! (do you think I am pumped?) all other sets increased weights and/or reps. Success!
Today's Attitude: um....what do you think?
Today's Gratitude: I am so grateful for Elaine Morales!! You pump me up! You fire me up! Your positive energy just infuses the "Not Just a DayDream" site! thank you for writing an awesome ebook in "Why Delay Amazing?" Anyone who refuses what you have to offer just isn't ready for amazing yet! Me? I am so ready for Amazing!! I am so grateful for the awesome support and encouragement you provide to me and to all dreamers who come there! Thank you for being Amazing!
Today's Thoughts: We don't do this on our own!! We do this as a community, whether that community is two people or 200 hundred people, it doesnt' matter. But, what does matter is the quality of support you get from that community! What is quality support? It is people who genuinely care about your success. It is people who share with you in your struggles and in your victories. It is an uplifting comment when you are down and a "virtual" high five when you rock it out. It is accountability that pushes you to go harder, faster, more intense with each workout and to eat as clean as possible because you know your "community" is doing the same thing and are going through the same struggles and experience the same victories. I push hard because I know you are pushing hard!
It is a "coach" who believes in you! and helps you to believe in yourself! It is a coach who helps you to ask the right questions. Who teaches you how to think, Who cares about you and wants you to be the best you can possibly be! It is a coach who gives and doesn't expect anything in return, but for you to be the Champion you are born to be!
Today's Pics: week 1 comparison pics. I do believe I see progress in the right direction. No measurements or weight taken...only pics. the pics won't lie!
Today's Musical selection:
"No More" by Beckah Shae
"It is also the needed ingredients for a powerful and successful Affirmation Statement." Carlos DeJesus
My dream of a tight, fit, photo shoot ready body is all but a reality because I train hard with intensity. I eat whole, healthy nutritious food that fuels my body for muscular growth and strength. I persist boldly with an unshakable belief with confidence in myself that I will follow through with unwavering focus and inner strength that comes from speaking truth. I am pumped and excited as I stand in front of the camera knowing I gave it my all and am reaping the rewards of my full on effort.
The rewards of my efforts is to have an awesome photo shoot in July 2011 in the best shape of my life. I live it. I breathe it. I am in the best shape of my life! I am Unstoppable!
Warrior Mind Code
I no longer accept the mediocre in my life, but accept the challenge of doing my best before me.
I lead and live as an example for other to follow.
I train hard.
I set challenging goals for myself, and hold myself accountable to their achievement.
I accept nothing less of myself for I am worthy of their achievement.
Every day that I breathe I remain committed.
Consistently, without fail, I will never quit.
I will never quit!
I no longer accept the mediocre in my life, but accept the challenge of doing my best before me.
I lead and live as an example for other to follow.
I train hard.
I set challenging goals for myself, and hold myself accountable to their achievement.
I accept nothing less of myself for I am worthy of their achievement.
Every day that I breathe I remain committed.
Consistently, without fail, I will never quit.
I will never quit!
I am a Warrior! Warriors never quit! The Victory is mine! I'm about to bring some Glory!
Today's Eats: nothing but whole and healthy foods.
Todays' Workout: Muscle A. I rocked it out today!! woo! I upped my leg extensions by 15 lbs.(up to 115 lbs) and still rocked the reps! wooo! (do you think I am pumped?) all other sets increased weights and/or reps. Success!
Today's Attitude: um....what do you think?
Today's Gratitude: I am so grateful for Elaine Morales!! You pump me up! You fire me up! Your positive energy just infuses the "Not Just a DayDream" site! thank you for writing an awesome ebook in "Why Delay Amazing?" Anyone who refuses what you have to offer just isn't ready for amazing yet! Me? I am so ready for Amazing!! I am so grateful for the awesome support and encouragement you provide to me and to all dreamers who come there! Thank you for being Amazing!
Today's Thoughts: We don't do this on our own!! We do this as a community, whether that community is two people or 200 hundred people, it doesnt' matter. But, what does matter is the quality of support you get from that community! What is quality support? It is people who genuinely care about your success. It is people who share with you in your struggles and in your victories. It is an uplifting comment when you are down and a "virtual" high five when you rock it out. It is accountability that pushes you to go harder, faster, more intense with each workout and to eat as clean as possible because you know your "community" is doing the same thing and are going through the same struggles and experience the same victories. I push hard because I know you are pushing hard!
It is a "coach" who believes in you! and helps you to believe in yourself! It is a coach who helps you to ask the right questions. Who teaches you how to think, Who cares about you and wants you to be the best you can possibly be! It is a coach who gives and doesn't expect anything in return, but for you to be the Champion you are born to be!
Today's Pics: week 1 comparison pics. I do believe I see progress in the right direction. No measurements or weight taken...only pics. the pics won't lie!
Today's Musical selection:
"No More" by Beckah Shae
Monday, January 24, 2011
Dare...Boldly 2011: T-187: Conviction
In response to Friday's blog post on visualize with emotion, Carlos has shared with me, "Emotion is good- but for me conviction is better. Conviction has emotion but it also carries a certainty of faith, belief- and as a result... action.""
Some definitions:
Some definitions:
con-vic-tion convictio, proof, demonstration]] 1 a convicting or being convicted 2 [Rare] the act of convincing 3 the state or appearance of being convinced, as of the truth of a belief [to speak with conviction ] 4 a strong belief --SYN. CERTAINTY, OPINION
Thesaurus
conviction, n. 1. [Belief] ----Syn. persuasion, confidence, reliance; see belief 1, faith 2.
conviction - an unshakable belief in something without need for proof or evidence
conviction noun 2. certainty, confidence, assurance, fervour, firmness, earnestness, certitude He preaches with conviction.
Faith:
b (1) : firm belief in something for which there is no proof (2) : complete trust
Belief:
a feeling of being sure that someone or something exists or that something is true [singular] ▪ a heartfelt/deep/deep-seated/firm/strong/passionate belief
certainty n
confidence - freedom from doubt; belief in yourself and your abilities
Synonyms: certainty, certitude, assurance, conviction
These nouns mean freedom from doubt.
So here I am visualizing my dreams and goals and I have put some emotion and feelings to those dreams and goals. But what good do all those emotions and feelings do for those visualizations unless one Believes those things can and will actually be realized? Without belief, one is not moved to action. Action only comes by way of belief.
Faith:
b (1) : firm belief in something for which there is no proof (2) : complete trust
3: something that is believed especially with strong conviction;
Belief:
a feeling of being sure that someone or something exists or that something is true [singular] ▪ a heartfelt/deep/deep-seated/firm/strong/passionate belief
certainty n
1. the condition of being certain
2. something established as certain or inevitable
for a certainty without doubt
confidence - freedom from doubt; belief in yourself and your abilities
Synonyms: certainty, certitude, assurance, conviction
These nouns mean freedom from doubt.
So here I am visualizing my dreams and goals and I have put some emotion and feelings to those dreams and goals. But what good do all those emotions and feelings do for those visualizations unless one Believes those things can and will actually be realized? Without belief, one is not moved to action. Action only comes by way of belief.
So if you feel like “something” is holding you back? It is your belief!!! Belief holds you back. Because, if you truly believe, you will naturally move towards that which you believe. So enter in our dreams and goals…how is it that we can believe something we have not yet done or seen? “Faith…By hearing” (So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ”.—Romans 10:17
Even if your belief seems very small to start, that’s ok! Build on that little bit of belief. A tiny mustard seed grows to be a “persistent and troublesome” plant large enough to provide a valuable food and shelter for animals.
“For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.”—Matthew 17:20
“It is when we let that intense hunger, that intense resolve be activated...we will move the mountains and cast the tree into the sea! When we hunger and thirst so much that we will do anything God-honoring to satisfy it...we will walk in Mustard Seed faith!
But we must not forget also, that though we might possess that faith to move the mountains and have not love, it is nothing. God will never honor a selfish quest for personal worldly reason...but will always honor our quest for more of Him.
God WANTS us to bother Him! To get His attention! Tug on the hem of His garment....call out to Him! And keep at it until we get answers, until we get healed, until we obtain our blessings. For such persistence means we really and truly will do whatever we have to do to get it! That is real faith! Just wishing doesn't do...we are to come BOLDLY to the throne of grace.”~Mary E. Adams
So how can we pull all this together?
When it comes to conviction of our dreams and goals, if we persist boldly with an unshakable belief with faith by affirming out loud in confidence that which is truth (which is to know that if we incorporate certain actions—we will obtain a certain result) we can know that which we visualize with emotion and feelings will become a reality!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Dare...Boldly 2011: T-189: Visualize, with emotion
Body, Mind, Soul
Today's Eats: Leftovers! Quick, easy, all ready made! Reheat and eat! Plus two "green" smoothies.
Today's Workout: Muscle C. A great workout! I am finding this week that I can and should push so much more on my legs. I will push harder next week! I will up the intensity level.
Today's Attitude: Unstoppable! What an awesome week so far! I truly feel I am in a place I haven't been in quite some time. I am strong in mind. I am strong in Spirit. I've had a few "tests" of resolve this week, but have overcome and not allowed those "outside" influences to derail me this week. I have kept my focus. I am determined. Today, I am Unstoppable!
Today's Gratitude: I am so grateful I have workout equipment at home so I can workout in the "comfort" of my own home. I do not have to travel on snowy roads or be away from home any longer than I have to. I am grateful for the ability to even be able to lift weights and to train my body.
Today's Thoughts: One of the things I've been thinking about today is the power of visualization. I have three big dreams/goals this year.(trip to Australia, photo shoot, write an e-book) Right now, they seem like a far way off and it may seem an impossible feat looking at current "conditions". But I know in order to reach those dreams I must focus on the end goal. I must keep my eyes looking straight ahead. There can be no doubt! I can not look at what the circumstances or present conditions say. I can not look down, or to the left or the right. As soon as I do, I will start sinking!
I really think you need to have a powerful driving force that is positively, emotionally charged. To make it even more powerful, attaching an image or vision for it in your mind is key. It is the visualization that you have already reached your goal. You have to see it as if you are already there. You have to feel it in your spirit and being. You have to feel all the emotions of that moment and time.
For me, it has started out with my planned trip to Australia in August. What I have been doing is visualizing myself actually in Australia stepping off the plane on Australian soil and seeing my friend Sharon Harris for the first time in person. I feel every emotion of the whole trip, from the nervousness of flying overseas by myself for the first time in my life, to the joy and excitement of meeting Sharon for the first time and even the tears of good bye. I can feel the hugs and tears of joy of feeling this dream realized. I can feel the elation of celebrating my birthday there with our Aussie friends.
So what I am going to do is utilize this same positively, emotionally charged, powerful driving force towards the photo shoot. The photo shoot is driven by two forces. One being the Pro Photo Cover(hopefully updated version for Elaine's web page!). I imagine how awesome I will feel to have these pics made and knowing I gave it my all to reach a physique I can be proud to show off, especially after coming so far in my journey and overcoming so many seemed obstacles. I have to think about myself actually being there at the photo shoot. I have to see in my mind how awesome and tight and ripped I will look. To be able to say, "That's Me! Look how far I have come! If I can do this, anybody can!" To be able to look at those pics and say, "YES!!"
I am also using the photo shoot as a driving force for my trip to Australia to be in the best shape of my life. I do not want to meet Sharon, or even Adam, all frumpy and soft. lol.
The feelings with the book are of the joy of finishing it and knowing that it just may touch someones life. To know that I can have an impact on someones life by sharing my story. How awesome will that be?!
The visualization not only requires you to see it "as if"...but to also feel everything about it...to live it in your mind as if it has already happened. It is putting a powerful, positive, emotionally charged, driving force behind your dreams.
Of course to add to that visualization is the power of belief...without doubt!
Today's Pic: a work in progress...one day at a time.
Today's Visualizations:
Suzette in Oz with Sharon
Suzette at her "best"..but the "best" is yet to come...so this is the first step!
Friday, January 21, 2011
Dare...Boldly 2011: T-190: Just One at a Time
Mind, Body, Soul
Today's Eats: I love leftovers! I have been "batch" cooking some foods. Yesterday I made more chili and have enough for several meals. I also made a new chicken recipe for diner today. Walnut encrusted chicken, with baked red potatoes(coated with extra virgin olive oil and onion soup mix) Yummy! I made enough for four meals. So the next few days will be chili and chicken/potatoes with Broccoli. I also am drinking my green smoothies to get my greens in.
Today's workout: 30 minutes steady state cardio with abs. I am feeling the abs from Tuesday's workout.
Today's Attitude: Thankful. I am thankful that I can come here and share with you. I am thankful to Adam Waters for having a dream and going for it. I would not be where I am today if Adam did not keep pressing on and share his own journey. It was his blog that inspired me to start my own back in April 2007. At that time I still needed to lose another 45 lbs! Not only have I lost over 90 lbs, but I have also "gained" so much more in support and encouragement and so many new friends along the way..as well as increased self-confidence and increased self-esteem. I've grown physically, spiritually, mentally. I am thankful for all that I've gone through to get me to where I am today.
Today's Gratitude: I am grateful for the 30 minutes my six year old sat on my lap while watching a movie(Avatar) with me at home tonight. The few precious moments a mom can have with her "baby". They grow up so fast and don't want to be with you anymore. Our Daniel is truly a "miracle" as he nearly lost his life back in the summer of 2008 from pneumonia and fluid on his heart/lung. So I treasure every little precious moment with him like this(when he is not being a "naughty" boy.)
Today's Thoughts: I was thinking about recent blog posts. I was thinking about the impact we can have on so many people by sharing our stories and life experiences and successes. That is why sites like this are created. That is why we blog. But it all starts with one! It starts with touching one life! And then one more. And then one more. It's not really about all the people we want to touch..but the next one. And the exciting thing is, you never know who that "one" person is going to be!
It is my hope and prayer..and maybe even "dream" to just touch one life...and then one more...and then...
Just like my transformation journey...It started with just one! That One time it took to make one decision to just do it! That One decision has changed my own life! Then I had to take it just one day at a time, one meal at a time, one workout at a time.
Today's Pic: Just one more...day at a time!
Today's Eats: I love leftovers! I have been "batch" cooking some foods. Yesterday I made more chili and have enough for several meals. I also made a new chicken recipe for diner today. Walnut encrusted chicken, with baked red potatoes(coated with extra virgin olive oil and onion soup mix) Yummy! I made enough for four meals. So the next few days will be chili and chicken/potatoes with Broccoli. I also am drinking my green smoothies to get my greens in.
Today's workout: 30 minutes steady state cardio with abs. I am feeling the abs from Tuesday's workout.
Today's Attitude: Thankful. I am thankful that I can come here and share with you. I am thankful to Adam Waters for having a dream and going for it. I would not be where I am today if Adam did not keep pressing on and share his own journey. It was his blog that inspired me to start my own back in April 2007. At that time I still needed to lose another 45 lbs! Not only have I lost over 90 lbs, but I have also "gained" so much more in support and encouragement and so many new friends along the way..as well as increased self-confidence and increased self-esteem. I've grown physically, spiritually, mentally. I am thankful for all that I've gone through to get me to where I am today.
Today's Gratitude: I am grateful for the 30 minutes my six year old sat on my lap while watching a movie(Avatar) with me at home tonight. The few precious moments a mom can have with her "baby". They grow up so fast and don't want to be with you anymore. Our Daniel is truly a "miracle" as he nearly lost his life back in the summer of 2008 from pneumonia and fluid on his heart/lung. So I treasure every little precious moment with him like this(when he is not being a "naughty" boy.)
Today's Thoughts: I was thinking about recent blog posts. I was thinking about the impact we can have on so many people by sharing our stories and life experiences and successes. That is why sites like this are created. That is why we blog. But it all starts with one! It starts with touching one life! And then one more. And then one more. It's not really about all the people we want to touch..but the next one. And the exciting thing is, you never know who that "one" person is going to be!
It is my hope and prayer..and maybe even "dream" to just touch one life...and then one more...and then...
Just like my transformation journey...It started with just one! That One time it took to make one decision to just do it! That One decision has changed my own life! Then I had to take it just one day at a time, one meal at a time, one workout at a time.
Today's Pic: Just one more...day at a time!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Dare...Boldly 2011: T-191: Great things are in store! Expect it!
Body, Mind, Soul
Today's eats: green smoothies, salmon and sweet potato, a new batch of chili with a few Ritz crackers! one banana
Today's workout: Muscle B . increased some weights, increased some reps, some weights and reps stayed the same. Overall a great workout.
Today's attitude: Good. I am focused and excited about my goal. I have motivation. I have inspiration. I have determination.
Today's gratitude: I am so blessed and grateful for my Church family. I had several people come up to me at church tonight inquiring as to how I am doing and my husband as well. Indicating prayers are still being sent on our behalf. I am blessed! I even had one "elder" of the church sit next to me. She was a great encouragement to me. At the end of service she told me she felt God had great things in store for me this year. I AGREE! I told her, I am expecting it!
Today's thoughts: After what I read and posted yesterday, I am thinking differently about my goals. For a long time I think I struggled with the idea that getting "ripped" was a vain thing. But if I look at it differently...if I change my perspective...I can now think of it as showing others the way and living up to my potential will not just help me, but help others...for surely if I can do it...so can you! Does this put "extra" pressure on myself? Not if I keep my eyes on the goal. If I keep living in the truth of who I am and rest in my calling, then I can be at peace and can live empowered, determined, courageous and what I do will not only be beneficial to me, but to any who "read" my story!
Today's pic: a work in progress, one day at a time.
Today's eats: green smoothies, salmon and sweet potato, a new batch of chili with a few Ritz crackers! one banana
Today's workout: Muscle B . increased some weights, increased some reps, some weights and reps stayed the same. Overall a great workout.
Today's attitude: Good. I am focused and excited about my goal. I have motivation. I have inspiration. I have determination.
Today's gratitude: I am so blessed and grateful for my Church family. I had several people come up to me at church tonight inquiring as to how I am doing and my husband as well. Indicating prayers are still being sent on our behalf. I am blessed! I even had one "elder" of the church sit next to me. She was a great encouragement to me. At the end of service she told me she felt God had great things in store for me this year. I AGREE! I told her, I am expecting it!
Today's thoughts: After what I read and posted yesterday, I am thinking differently about my goals. For a long time I think I struggled with the idea that getting "ripped" was a vain thing. But if I look at it differently...if I change my perspective...I can now think of it as showing others the way and living up to my potential will not just help me, but help others...for surely if I can do it...so can you! Does this put "extra" pressure on myself? Not if I keep my eyes on the goal. If I keep living in the truth of who I am and rest in my calling, then I can be at peace and can live empowered, determined, courageous and what I do will not only be beneficial to me, but to any who "read" my story!
Today's pic: a work in progress, one day at a time.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Dare...Boldly 2011: T-192: Wide Awake
"In his book, Wide Awake, Erwin Raphael McManus helps us see the difference between being awake and being wide awake. It is the recognition that God is very active in your life and then to actively live that life. He says, “Living wide awake is about realizing that the world needs you to live up to your potential. There are others whose lives and future depend on your stepping up and living big. The better world you keep waiting for needs you to accept your life’s calling and responsibility, and then create it. The future needs you to dream God-sized dreams; these are the only kind God gets involved in.”
Love this! I found this on the site, "Faith and Fitness Magazine". I am loving this site more and more. This statement is so profound for me. Imagine that the world is waiting for you(me) to live up to your(my) potential and that there are others lives and future depend on your(my) stepping up and living big! This really hits home for me as I never thought of it that way. The life we live is not our own, nor for our own benefit..but it is for the benefit of others. How we live our fitness lives and even our faith, show others that there is a better way to live and feel about ourselves is a mission unto itself. Our calling isn't just for ourselves, but for our "neighbors". "If I can do it, then so can you!" Isn't that what we do here? That's what Elaine shows us in her book, "Why Delay Amazing?" It isn't about Elaine anymore...it is about reaching out to others and helping someone else along this path to health and fitness and even towards faith. Faith in God. Faith in ourselves. Faith in our new found friends. It is to empower each other to push towards a goal. We don't do this on our own! We are much more effective and successful as a community than as individuals.
Success is inevitable!
So are we dreaming some "God-sized" dreams? For ourselves? for our "community"? For others future?
Are we wide awake?
Today's eats was green smoothies (turned "brown" with blueberry's, but oh so yummy!) and left over chili and salmon and sweet potato.
Today's workout was HIIT and Abs.
Today's attitude: Great!
Today's pic: a work in progress...one day at a time!
"Dare...Boldly!" Dreams become reality one choice at at time
I am back at it today with Muscle. I have not been very consistent recently. That's about to change! Starting with today!
We all know here that consistency is one key to a physique transformation. I have proved it to myself over and over again the past few years. When I am consistent, I get awesome results....when I am not...well..I don't.
I have put out there an awesome physique goal for me. While it seems a ways off, I am faced with the question Elaine has so beautifully shared with us, "Why Delay Amazing?" I have two complete 83 day missions to complete to reach my photo shoot ready body! It is my goal the next 14 weeks to do Muscle program. I know already from my own past experience that I can both gain muscle and lose fat with this program. That is indeed the goal! When this mission is complete I'll evaluate where I am and then determine the next step(but I am leaning towards doing Turbo.) (both Muscle and Turbo have been designed by Carlos DeJesus)
I still have yet to weigh myself in recent weeks, and I don't really want to, mainly because I don't want that scale number to "defeat" my mindset. I did take some measurements back on December 30, 2010 when my little sister was here. But, the Pics already tell me what is going on! This is "negative" motivation enough for me. I am so not happy with today's pics...but that will change.
The "Positive" motivator for me is of course how I will feel when I get those pics taken in the best shape of my life! I have a "best" shape from Feb. 2010, that I will visualize, but I intend to improve on that!!
Another "positive" motivator for me is, of course, going to Australia in August in the best shape of my life. I will be going to meet my good friend, Sharon Harris. I also might have the opportunity to also meet up with Adam Waters again( and also a few other shredder friends). You know photo ops will also be had there in Australia. What better way to spend my 42nd birthday in the best shape of my life in an awesome country with some awesome friends?!
Of course, the original idea for the photo shoot is to get that new pic for Elaine's sales page! How awesome will it be to see my "Pro" photo up there with Elaine and Kim?!
I was really dragging there for a few days this past week. But once I started with figuring out dates for this photo shoot/trip to Oz, I realized how fast time goes by and 194 days really is not that long. It is about 28 weeks. Just enough time for two full-blown missions! Today is the day! I could not wait any longer. Self-sabotage was setting in. So, the past few days I have been "devouring" some awesome stuff from Faith and Fitness.
Here are a few things that have stirred me today. Some of it is stuff we already know, but sometimes we need to hear it again to let it really sink in and take hold of our hearts.
A person with a Maximized Mind is a person who sees herself as a disciplined, committed person capable of sticking with a healthy lifestyle.(what an awesome affirmation statement!)
"I am a person with a Maximized Mind! I see myself as a disciplined, committed woman capable of sticking with a healthy lifestyle."
It's important to not only change "what" we think, but... "We need to change HOW we think to experience transformation."
"Become willing to experience pain, then we can experience a transformed mind, body, and spirit. The pain itself is a sign of the weaning from our sinful habits."
"Run straight toward the goal with purpose in every step."
"When you commit yourself to doing the will of God you no longer allow others, emotions or the way you feel to lead you."
It's time for me to make some commitments!!
Food was good today! I will be incorporating my Green smoothies into my meal plan. they contain healthy greens, fruit and plant based protein in form of avocado and also will be incorporating nuts/seeds into those as well, which is also a good source of protein. I will also be eating good clean eats in my other meals. Today I made a batch of chili that I cooked in a slow cooker. Oh so yummy!! As long as the beans don't cause me too much bloating I will make more chili! With my gall bladder removed it does cause some bloating issues with certain foods, like beans.
Well, I believe I am ready! I am ready to get back to being "Unstoppable!"
Just for reference and accountability of my measurements:(as of dec. 30, 2010)
waist(at belly button): 33"
hips: 41"(too much 'butt ledge' going on here!)
r. thigh: 24"
We all know here that consistency is one key to a physique transformation. I have proved it to myself over and over again the past few years. When I am consistent, I get awesome results....when I am not...well..I don't.
I have put out there an awesome physique goal for me. While it seems a ways off, I am faced with the question Elaine has so beautifully shared with us, "Why Delay Amazing?" I have two complete 83 day missions to complete to reach my photo shoot ready body! It is my goal the next 14 weeks to do Muscle program. I know already from my own past experience that I can both gain muscle and lose fat with this program. That is indeed the goal! When this mission is complete I'll evaluate where I am and then determine the next step(but I am leaning towards doing Turbo.) (both Muscle and Turbo have been designed by Carlos DeJesus)
I still have yet to weigh myself in recent weeks, and I don't really want to, mainly because I don't want that scale number to "defeat" my mindset. I did take some measurements back on December 30, 2010 when my little sister was here. But, the Pics already tell me what is going on! This is "negative" motivation enough for me. I am so not happy with today's pics...but that will change.
The "Positive" motivator for me is of course how I will feel when I get those pics taken in the best shape of my life! I have a "best" shape from Feb. 2010, that I will visualize, but I intend to improve on that!!
Another "positive" motivator for me is, of course, going to Australia in August in the best shape of my life. I will be going to meet my good friend, Sharon Harris. I also might have the opportunity to also meet up with Adam Waters again( and also a few other shredder friends). You know photo ops will also be had there in Australia. What better way to spend my 42nd birthday in the best shape of my life in an awesome country with some awesome friends?!
Of course, the original idea for the photo shoot is to get that new pic for Elaine's sales page! How awesome will it be to see my "Pro" photo up there with Elaine and Kim?!
I was really dragging there for a few days this past week. But once I started with figuring out dates for this photo shoot/trip to Oz, I realized how fast time goes by and 194 days really is not that long. It is about 28 weeks. Just enough time for two full-blown missions! Today is the day! I could not wait any longer. Self-sabotage was setting in. So, the past few days I have been "devouring" some awesome stuff from Faith and Fitness.
Here are a few things that have stirred me today. Some of it is stuff we already know, but sometimes we need to hear it again to let it really sink in and take hold of our hearts.
A person with a Maximized Mind is a person who sees herself as a disciplined, committed person capable of sticking with a healthy lifestyle.(what an awesome affirmation statement!)
"I am a person with a Maximized Mind! I see myself as a disciplined, committed woman capable of sticking with a healthy lifestyle."
It's important to not only change "what" we think, but... "We need to change HOW we think to experience transformation."
"Become willing to experience pain, then we can experience a transformed mind, body, and spirit. The pain itself is a sign of the weaning from our sinful habits."
"Run straight toward the goal with purpose in every step."
"When you commit yourself to doing the will of God you no longer allow others, emotions or the way you feel to lead you."
It's time for me to make some commitments!!
Food was good today! I will be incorporating my Green smoothies into my meal plan. they contain healthy greens, fruit and plant based protein in form of avocado and also will be incorporating nuts/seeds into those as well, which is also a good source of protein. I will also be eating good clean eats in my other meals. Today I made a batch of chili that I cooked in a slow cooker. Oh so yummy!! As long as the beans don't cause me too much bloating I will make more chili! With my gall bladder removed it does cause some bloating issues with certain foods, like beans.
Well, I believe I am ready! I am ready to get back to being "Unstoppable!"
Just for reference and accountability of my measurements:(as of dec. 30, 2010)
waist(at belly button): 33"
hips: 41"(too much 'butt ledge' going on here!)
r. thigh: 24"
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Reach New Heights! "Dare...Boldly" 2011
It's time to put up or shut up!
This was to be Day 37, but after I looked at my "day 1" pic(from Dec.6, 2010) , there really was no comparison nor any changes. Hmmm. It's time for this gal to "Reach New Heights" and put into practice all I have been sharing these past few blogs.
Granted I had some life "crap" to deal with these past few months(actually feel like I have floundered since all the gall bladder stuff started back in March, which saw me put on about 25 lbs.)...and I put forth my best effort during this time. I guess I can say I "survived" the holidays. I have worked through some tough stuff and have come out better for it....much stronger mentally...much stronger spiritually...having more confidence in who I am.
But today is a new day!! It's time to get back what I had...and MORE!! I can not aim for what was..but must aim for what is to be and better! As Elaine Morales perfectly states, "Why Delay Amazing?"
Several things have inspired me recently.
One being my friend, Amanda, setting a goal for having Pro pics taken and she went for it and DID it!! I also know of someone else who is working towards "pro" pics this year.
Another is Elaine's new link to the "Why Delay Amazing?" sales page. What I see there are two awesome looking ladies who are tight and ripped with Pro pics to show their efforts. While I do believe my pics, as far as comparison purposes are concerned, are amazing, even for me! But what I see missing is a "Pro" pic. Hmmm. So Dare I think Boldly? Dare I Believe Boldly?
While I don't really have any aspirations for the stage, I do like the idea of being "Pro pic" ready. Now I haven't worked the whole idea through yet as I have just had a fire lit under my butt...But here is an initial thought...Pro pics taken for my 42nd Birthday in August? Just in time for my trip to Oz!
I have no clue what I weigh(I am guessing around 160 lbs). I have no clue what my bodyfat % is( I am guessing around 25 %). I have no clue what my Lean Body Mass is. All I know is I don't like what I see...especially the back side!
The other is not even related to physique transformation but does have something to do with going completely out of my comfort zone as far as "belief" is concerned. It is a "writing project" I have, through Carlos DeJesus'(the 1985 Undefeated All Natural World Bodybuilding Champion) (and others) encouragement, decided to document my weight loss journey via an e-book. This has seen to be a daunting task for me so far as I do not claim to be a "writer". I must change my beliefs about this.
My goal in this e-book is to inspire others. If I can do it, so can you!
(A reminder to myself...) "If the size of your vision isn't intimidating to you, there's a good chance it's insulting to God"...Steven Furtick.
There! So I have gone completely public with some goals! Now to be accountable and give it all I've got this coming year. It's going to be a biggy!
Let's Dare to Be Unstoppable!
93 lb weight loss, from 239 lbs down to 146 lbs.
Dropped 8 dress sizes from size 24/26 pants down to size 10,
Lost 10 inches off my waist from 42" down to 32"
Lost 10" off my hips from 49" down to 39"
Increased Self-esteem and Confidence in self
Sunday, January 9, 2011
How can we Lose?
Romans 8:31 (The Message)
" 31So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose?"
I hope you don't mind my sharing with you my devotional from today. It lines up perfectly with the thoughts I have been having and sharing with you the past few blog posts. Of course it lines up with this time of year, the New Year, as most people are thinking of "resolutions" and visions and goals for the new year. But what reassurance we can have to know that there is Help along the way.
Taken from the devotional, "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young
"January 9
I am with you and for you. When you decide on a course of action that is in line with My will, nothing in heaven or on earth can stop you. You may encounter many obstacles as you move toward your goal, but don't be discouraged - Never Give Up! With My help, you can overcome any obstacle. Do not expect an easy path as you journey hand in hand with Me, but do remember that I, your ever-present Helper, am omnipotent(having unlimited power or authority; all-powerful).
Much, much stress results from your wanting to make things happen before their times have come. One of the main ways I assert My sovereignty is in the timing of events. If you want to stay close to Me and do things My way, ask Me to show you the path forward moment by moment. Instead of dashing headlong toward your goal, let Me set the pace. Slow down, and enjoy the journey in My Presence.
Romans 8:31; Psalm 46:1-3; Luke 1:37"
How Big is your Vision?
Wow! what an amazing quote! Sure makes me think. Goes along well with my blog post, "Dare...Boldly."
I have also been thinking about a comment I got from that blog post, "I would love to hear your beliefs!"
I am giving this some serious thought. This could go in many directions.
Our visions can only go as far as our beliefs.
If you believe then do this: Jump in with everything you have and see your life become the life of your dreams!
I am getting ready to Jump!
Friday, January 7, 2011
The Power within, Thinking like a Champion
Today has been a good day. I have eaten well, except for one chocolae chip cookie. I got in my Muscle workout today, the first since last Friday.
I have been through some rough waters recently and have come to calm waters.
Today I have had such a sense of Peace about me.
Also I feel a sense of excitement of what is to be this year. I have been smiling a lot today. It feels so good!!
I am giving thought to my recent post. I have been giving some thought to the questions posed.
If I have the Power within me to do and be more than I could ever ask or imagine, what is it then I can ask or imagine? If I can imagine it, then I can do it and be it because I have the Power within me to do and be!
What can I dare to believe boldly? Isn't that what it really comes down to? my belief?
If I can believe without doubt, and can have peace about that which I ask, shall I not have, do , be that which I have asked or imagined?
Surely this is the thinking of a Champion!
Faith is belief without doubt. Our emotions reveal what our real inner belief is. What is it that we believe in our heart? The Answer lays within the question, 'Do I have Peace'?
Faith without works is dead! The Power is within me...but Action must be put forth to work out that faith.
I have been through some rough waters recently and have come to calm waters.
Today I have had such a sense of Peace about me.
Also I feel a sense of excitement of what is to be this year. I have been smiling a lot today. It feels so good!!
I am giving thought to my recent post. I have been giving some thought to the questions posed.
If I have the Power within me to do and be more than I could ever ask or imagine, what is it then I can ask or imagine? If I can imagine it, then I can do it and be it because I have the Power within me to do and be!
What can I dare to believe boldly? Isn't that what it really comes down to? my belief?
If I can believe without doubt, and can have peace about that which I ask, shall I not have, do , be that which I have asked or imagined?
Surely this is the thinking of a Champion!
Faith is belief without doubt. Our emotions reveal what our real inner belief is. What is it that we believe in our heart? The Answer lays within the question, 'Do I have Peace'?
Faith without works is dead! The Power is within me...but Action must be put forth to work out that faith.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Dare..Boldly
So I ended the year 2010 off on the right foot...But was met with my first challenge first thing New Year's Day. It has made it a long weekend for me. Not the best of weekends for dealing with emotional issues being around sweets and treats all weekend. I'll just say it didn't go so well with the food intake.
I am challenged by my own blog post from Dec. 30th. I am challenged by the questions:
"Dare we think boldly? Dare we believe boldly? Dare we live boldly? Dare we pray boldly?"
Carlos has challenged us to "ask the next question. There always is one."
So the next questions would be, "What am I thinking now? How can I think boldly? What do I believe now? How bold is that belief? How am I living now? How can I live boldly? What am I praying for now? Am I praying bold prayers?" These questions can work for any area of my life.
As I think about these questions, Belief is what stands out for me in all of these questions. If I believe whatever I think, I will live it. If I believe whatever I pray, then I will have what I pray for. All things are possible for him who believes....Belief without Doubt. Anytime we have a negative emotion such as doubt or fear or worry, then we are truly not believing. Our emotions reveal what our real inner belief is. What is it that we believe in our heart? The Answer lays within the question, 'Do I have Peace'?
I've heard it said that if our dreams and goals don't scare us a little bit, or excite us, then we are not dreaming big enough. Dare to Dream Big! Dare to Believe!
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