I believe that one of the greatest obstacles we face in life is our own self. I could go on for ages listing out all of the possible, destructive reasons for a person's lack of self esteem and self-love. It could be neglect, abuse, the fashion industry. It could be anything really. And I would venture to say that most people can't pinpoint that exact moment in time when they went from happy, carefree child, to weight-obsessed, I-think-I'm-ugly child/pre-teen/teen/young adult/adult/senior. I can't pinpoint it myself, but I do know it's been a struggle for as long as I can remember.
Of all of the lessons I've learned throughout my own weight-loss journey, by far the most important has been to love myself, no matter what.
When I look into the mirror, I see a gorgeous, intelligent, funny, caring, and sexy woman. I see a beautiful body, and I remind myself daily to appreciate those parts of my body that I wouldn't trade for anything. My eyes. My hair. My legs. My feet (yes, my feet, I have awesome feet). My collar bone. The strength and broadness of my shoulders. My smile.
I am amazing.
Yes, I want to lose weight. Yes, I want to tone my body. And yes, I want to look even better than I do today. But does that mean that I don't love exactly who I am today? Of course not!
Loving yourself is the best thing you can possibly do to achieve your goals. When you look in the mirror and see all of the incredible things about yourself, both inside and out, you will feel amazing. Motivation to achieve the goals you've set forth increases. Confidence in your abilities increases. Your sense of self-worth and your positive attitude radiate from within, so that every single person you come in contact with feels and sees just how incredible you are!
Only when you truly love yourself, for who you are at this exact moment in time, and who you always will be, will you be able to achieve your goals in life - regardless of what they are.
Trust yourself, believe in yourself, love yourself.
Showing posts with label My Journey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label My Journey. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Starting Over
Considering most of my readers are friends, you more than likely know all of the dirty details of the past 6 months of my life.
Long story short - I got sick. Really sick. When I caught what I thought was a cold in mid-April during a trip to Sydney, Australia, I didn't think it was much of a big deal. But five months of exhaustion, constant headaches, an inability to smell, taste, or breathe properly, feeling lethargic and depressed, and generally just being ill, will cause a girl to well, umm, gain weight.
Remember all of that amazing progress I made 1.5 years ago? All of those inches I shed, and how happy I was? It really hurts to wave goodbye to all of that progress, but not have the energy to do anything about it. I slipped into a spell of self-loathing, which of course led me to chocolate, which then led to more self-loathing. Shocking, I know.
Ultimately it came down to surgery. At the end of August I underwent a full sinus surgery, including a 3-day hospital stay and 2 weeks of at-home recovery. They found mushrooms in my sinus cavities. And no, I am not joking. No wonder I felt like crap for months!
Only now am I able to work out full-throttle, smell things, taste things, breathe the air around me! I'm still recovering, though. This morning the doctor gave me one more week of meds, one more week of steroids (I HATE STEROIDS), and one more week to really get well before we do another CT of my head. I'm not healing as quickly as he'd hoped, although I'm staying incredibly optimistic that these meds will in fact kick this crud for good.
So, with all of that in mind, and beginning the 3-month countdown of my repatriation to Houston, I find myself starting over. The new Weight Watchers Points Plus program is not awesome, if you want my honest opinion, but I know it will probably work. They wouldn't have switched over to it had they doubted the plan, right?
This past week I tracked as best I could, stayed away from booze, and really kept myself motivated. But those damn 40mg daily doses of steroids don't exactly aid in the weight loss process. In fact, they do nothing other than add weight. A 2.5lb gain this week was not what I expected to see on my scale, but alas I must deal with it.
So what's the plan going forward? If I bite it, I write it! Too much cheating goes on in my daily eating, and I refuse to do it any longer. Every single bit of food that goes into my mouth is going to be documented in my Points Tracker. Period. End of discussion.
But the biggest change I am going to make defies the plan WW has set forth for me. Apparently a person of my age and size (27, 141.5lbs) gets a daily points plus allowance of 29. Well, that is simply ridiculous, especially when one considers fruits are now "free", or zero points. I am sorry, but why on earth should I be consuming 29 points per day, when a person who weighs 220lbs should consume the same? Which one of us do you suppose is going to lose weight? Hmm?
Starting today, my new allowance is 26 points per day, with only two free servings of fruit. If I consume more than two fruits, I have to track them as having points.
I'm going to give this new points plan two weeks and see how it goes. With any luck, the weight will slide off like it used to, and Sarah will get her groove back! I mean, really people, I miss my clothes! I bought so many new, pretty things when I lost weight, and now I'm 10 stinkin' pounds heavier! They don't even button up!
Long story short - I got sick. Really sick. When I caught what I thought was a cold in mid-April during a trip to Sydney, Australia, I didn't think it was much of a big deal. But five months of exhaustion, constant headaches, an inability to smell, taste, or breathe properly, feeling lethargic and depressed, and generally just being ill, will cause a girl to well, umm, gain weight.
Remember all of that amazing progress I made 1.5 years ago? All of those inches I shed, and how happy I was? It really hurts to wave goodbye to all of that progress, but not have the energy to do anything about it. I slipped into a spell of self-loathing, which of course led me to chocolate, which then led to more self-loathing. Shocking, I know.
Ultimately it came down to surgery. At the end of August I underwent a full sinus surgery, including a 3-day hospital stay and 2 weeks of at-home recovery. They found mushrooms in my sinus cavities. And no, I am not joking. No wonder I felt like crap for months!
Only now am I able to work out full-throttle, smell things, taste things, breathe the air around me! I'm still recovering, though. This morning the doctor gave me one more week of meds, one more week of steroids (I HATE STEROIDS), and one more week to really get well before we do another CT of my head. I'm not healing as quickly as he'd hoped, although I'm staying incredibly optimistic that these meds will in fact kick this crud for good.
So, with all of that in mind, and beginning the 3-month countdown of my repatriation to Houston, I find myself starting over. The new Weight Watchers Points Plus program is not awesome, if you want my honest opinion, but I know it will probably work. They wouldn't have switched over to it had they doubted the plan, right?
This past week I tracked as best I could, stayed away from booze, and really kept myself motivated. But those damn 40mg daily doses of steroids don't exactly aid in the weight loss process. In fact, they do nothing other than add weight. A 2.5lb gain this week was not what I expected to see on my scale, but alas I must deal with it.
So what's the plan going forward? If I bite it, I write it! Too much cheating goes on in my daily eating, and I refuse to do it any longer. Every single bit of food that goes into my mouth is going to be documented in my Points Tracker. Period. End of discussion.
But the biggest change I am going to make defies the plan WW has set forth for me. Apparently a person of my age and size (27, 141.5lbs) gets a daily points plus allowance of 29. Well, that is simply ridiculous, especially when one considers fruits are now "free", or zero points. I am sorry, but why on earth should I be consuming 29 points per day, when a person who weighs 220lbs should consume the same? Which one of us do you suppose is going to lose weight? Hmm?
Starting today, my new allowance is 26 points per day, with only two free servings of fruit. If I consume more than two fruits, I have to track them as having points.
I'm going to give this new points plan two weeks and see how it goes. With any luck, the weight will slide off like it used to, and Sarah will get her groove back! I mean, really people, I miss my clothes! I bought so many new, pretty things when I lost weight, and now I'm 10 stinkin' pounds heavier! They don't even button up!
Friday, April 1, 2011
This Calls for a Celebration!
Have I told you that my friend Kelly is living with me? She moved in at the end of February, and we're having the most incredible time. Not only is Kelly a true friend, totally hilarious, and fun to be around, she's also following the WW plan, enjoys cooking, and has a gym membership with me! We motivate each other each and every day to make healthy choices, and burn those calories!
Kelly also introduced me to the Couch to 5K program. There are free Podcasts available on iTunes (my favorite being "Podcasts for Running" by Robert Ullrey. Over nine weeks, you walk/run three times per week. In the first week, which I just completed, you alternate 60 second running intervals with 90 second fast-paced walking. This is sandwiched between a 5 minute brisk warm-up and easy cool down. Week 2 started on Tuesday night, and I'm super excited that I can handle it just fine. Instead of 60 second running intervals, it's now 90 second runs with 2 minute walking breaks. It's the same total amount of running as Week 1, but a bit tougher. Never thought I'd be a runner...
Do you remember my trip to Sri Lanka over the Chinese New Year holiday? Well, Kelly was with me there as well! In fact, the trip wouldn't have existed if it weren't for her. I bought three sapphire gemstones while in Sri Lanka, and this past weekend they came to life - in a beautiful, custom-designed, hand-made 18 carat gold ring setting with 28 small diamonds. I'd say that's something to celebrate! Pictures of the ring are coming soon!
But the real celebration arose on Friday night when Kelly sent in her resignation. That's right, folks, my amazing friend is leaving Singapore. It's depressing, of course, but it's also incredibly exciting! She is coming to a crossroads in her life, a point where the current journey ends, and a new adventure begins. She will be seeking out that new home and that new life that I spoke of just a few days ago (yes, I was feeling sappy).
In the spirit of celebration, Monday night's meal had to be amazing. Rather, it had to be the most delectable extravagance that we'd ever had touch our sensitive and discerning palates. And of course, it had to be easy on the points ;) Obviously, we chose steak. Get your mouth watering and be ready...it's coming soon!
Kelly also introduced me to the Couch to 5K program. There are free Podcasts available on iTunes (my favorite being "Podcasts for Running" by Robert Ullrey. Over nine weeks, you walk/run three times per week. In the first week, which I just completed, you alternate 60 second running intervals with 90 second fast-paced walking. This is sandwiched between a 5 minute brisk warm-up and easy cool down. Week 2 started on Tuesday night, and I'm super excited that I can handle it just fine. Instead of 60 second running intervals, it's now 90 second runs with 2 minute walking breaks. It's the same total amount of running as Week 1, but a bit tougher. Never thought I'd be a runner...
Do you remember my trip to Sri Lanka over the Chinese New Year holiday? Well, Kelly was with me there as well! In fact, the trip wouldn't have existed if it weren't for her. I bought three sapphire gemstones while in Sri Lanka, and this past weekend they came to life - in a beautiful, custom-designed, hand-made 18 carat gold ring setting with 28 small diamonds. I'd say that's something to celebrate! Pictures of the ring are coming soon!
But the real celebration arose on Friday night when Kelly sent in her resignation. That's right, folks, my amazing friend is leaving Singapore. It's depressing, of course, but it's also incredibly exciting! She is coming to a crossroads in her life, a point where the current journey ends, and a new adventure begins. She will be seeking out that new home and that new life that I spoke of just a few days ago (yes, I was feeling sappy).
In the spirit of celebration, Monday night's meal had to be amazing. Rather, it had to be the most delectable extravagance that we'd ever had touch our sensitive and discerning palates. And of course, it had to be easy on the points ;) Obviously, we chose steak. Get your mouth watering and be ready...it's coming soon!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
The Definition of Home
A lot has changed for me over the past two years. For one, I packed up everything I owned and moved from Houston to Singapore - kind of a big deal. It's not exactly easy moving from one city to the next, and it's especially more difficult when that city happens to be in another country, on another continent, literally on the other side of the globe.
Over time, we find chemistry with new friends, get into the groove of a new life, and the old life fades into memories of the past. Luckily, there are those few people that we always hold on to - the ones we still call regularly, email often, and especially the ones that, after not speaking for six months, somehow pick up right where they left off. In a way, these life changes make the best of friendships even greater.
So at what point does the old life become past, and the new life become present? I realize this is a strange question, but for the longest time I considered Houston to be my real home. Singapore was just a temporary place, comparable to college. I am here for so much time, and then I go back. Back home.
But since my last trip to Houston in December/January, I've come to realize that Singapore is my home. This is where I live. This is where I've formed my life. Am I ready to leave that life? Am I ready to leave my friends? My main pool of friends aren't in Houston any longer, they are here with me. Of course I miss my family, my friends in the US - but what of my life here?
When I do move back to Houston at the end of this year, I will leave my home, and I will begin a new life, build a new home. Houston won't be the same, I will develop new friends, and only a fraction of my old Houston life will still be there waiting for me. So many of my friends have moved on, to new places and new adventures.
That is what my journey is as well - a series of adventures. And when my Singapore adventure ends, I know that I will have the strength to begin a new one, to build a new life once again. But I also know that my adventure here will never be forgotten, and the relationships I have made, the places I have seen, and the incredible things I have learned will stay with me forever, having transformed me into an even more spectacular individual.
Singapore, I love you.
Over time, we find chemistry with new friends, get into the groove of a new life, and the old life fades into memories of the past. Luckily, there are those few people that we always hold on to - the ones we still call regularly, email often, and especially the ones that, after not speaking for six months, somehow pick up right where they left off. In a way, these life changes make the best of friendships even greater.
So at what point does the old life become past, and the new life become present? I realize this is a strange question, but for the longest time I considered Houston to be my real home. Singapore was just a temporary place, comparable to college. I am here for so much time, and then I go back. Back home.
But since my last trip to Houston in December/January, I've come to realize that Singapore is my home. This is where I live. This is where I've formed my life. Am I ready to leave that life? Am I ready to leave my friends? My main pool of friends aren't in Houston any longer, they are here with me. Of course I miss my family, my friends in the US - but what of my life here?
When I do move back to Houston at the end of this year, I will leave my home, and I will begin a new life, build a new home. Houston won't be the same, I will develop new friends, and only a fraction of my old Houston life will still be there waiting for me. So many of my friends have moved on, to new places and new adventures.
That is what my journey is as well - a series of adventures. And when my Singapore adventure ends, I know that I will have the strength to begin a new one, to build a new life once again. But I also know that my adventure here will never be forgotten, and the relationships I have made, the places I have seen, and the incredible things I have learned will stay with me forever, having transformed me into an even more spectacular individual.
Singapore, I love you.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
What a Week!
This has been one hell of a successful week. Why, you ask? Well...!
For starters, I went back to training. Ok, yeah, whatever. I know you're disappointed in me, upset, think I'm a moron, whatever. To be honest, I missed training, I missed my trainer, and I can't put the blame entirely on her. I'm the girl who didn't say "ouch" when my calves were in excruciating pain. So after a good long discussion, she and I have come up with a great way of moving forward. So far so good!
And did I mention that I completed an entire spin class on Wednesday...with zero pain? Rock on sista!
On March 5th I'm squeezing into a beautiful Asian-style ball gown for the annual George Washington Ball. We are some high-rollers, people. The theme is "Diamonds and White Tie". You can bet your butt Brian will be in white tie...not so much diamonds for me. If you think this is silly and I should wear the diamonds, please feel free to send me some. I will gladly accept and wear them.
The problem? I bought said beautiful gown in September, when I weighed 130 pounds. Whoops! Yes, the dress zips, and yes, it still looks fabulous. But I would so very much like to breathe, and I would definitely like to eat! So I'm on a mission - eating like a super healthy freak this week and next, and Juliana is doing nothing but perfecting my abs, arms, and shoulders for the event. Plus, we're just too scared to work my legs at this point. Upper body it is!
My cooking has noticeably improved, and I'm not actually sure why. This week's accomplishments include Sauteed Shrimp and Zucchini, Dijon Roasted New Potatoes, and the most incredibly savory and melt-in-your-mouth-delicious Asparagus, Bacon, and Cheese Strata. Dear lord those were some good meals!
Who knows, maybe my cooking's improved so that I can make the world's most amazing meal with my NEW LE CREUSET!!!
Oh yeah, that's right...my adorable, caring, funny, intelligent, and incredibly thoughtful boyfriend gave me a new gadget for Valentine's Day! And of course a bouquet of my favorite flowers too :)
I'm giving myself a massive pat on the back, and I'm crossing my fingers that tomorrow's weigh-in provides brag-worthy results.
For starters, I went back to training. Ok, yeah, whatever. I know you're disappointed in me, upset, think I'm a moron, whatever. To be honest, I missed training, I missed my trainer, and I can't put the blame entirely on her. I'm the girl who didn't say "ouch" when my calves were in excruciating pain. So after a good long discussion, she and I have come up with a great way of moving forward. So far so good!
And did I mention that I completed an entire spin class on Wednesday...with zero pain? Rock on sista!
On March 5th I'm squeezing into a beautiful Asian-style ball gown for the annual George Washington Ball. We are some high-rollers, people. The theme is "Diamonds and White Tie". You can bet your butt Brian will be in white tie...not so much diamonds for me. If you think this is silly and I should wear the diamonds, please feel free to send me some. I will gladly accept and wear them.
The problem? I bought said beautiful gown in September, when I weighed 130 pounds. Whoops! Yes, the dress zips, and yes, it still looks fabulous. But I would so very much like to breathe, and I would definitely like to eat! So I'm on a mission - eating like a super healthy freak this week and next, and Juliana is doing nothing but perfecting my abs, arms, and shoulders for the event. Plus, we're just too scared to work my legs at this point. Upper body it is!
My cooking has noticeably improved, and I'm not actually sure why. This week's accomplishments include Sauteed Shrimp and Zucchini, Dijon Roasted New Potatoes, and the most incredibly savory and melt-in-your-mouth-delicious Asparagus, Bacon, and Cheese Strata. Dear lord those were some good meals!
Who knows, maybe my cooking's improved so that I can make the world's most amazing meal with my NEW LE CREUSET!!!
 |
| Isn't he handsome?! |
 |
| Aren't they gorgeous? |
Oh yeah, that's right...my adorable, caring, funny, intelligent, and incredibly thoughtful boyfriend gave me a new gadget for Valentine's Day! And of course a bouquet of my favorite flowers too :)
I'm giving myself a massive pat on the back, and I'm crossing my fingers that tomorrow's weigh-in provides brag-worthy results.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Healing Muscles
I had a follow-up appointment with Dr. Goh this afternoon (he's my sports injury specialist). He's of course happy to see me walking normally, especially considering he'd never seen it before. Poor guy had only seen the raptor stance!
So I get in there, we chat a bit, and onto the ultrasound table I go. The muscles are improving, though he can still see a bit of damage. I'm allowed to get back into the gym, "light exercise" only as he says. We'll find out tomorrow around lunch whether or not my CK and liver enzymes are back to normal. He's certain they will be - says I'm making a good recovery. So I'll find out mid-day tomorrow if I'm allowed to attempt spin class in the evening. Oh boy - I can see it now. Me. On a spin bike. After all this time. Holy lord.
Speaking of blood work, I have to go to the diagnostics lab on the fourth floor of the medical centre to have my blood drawn. This is my third visit in two weeks, so I'm not exactly worried about it. So far the two women I've seen knew what they were doing with a needle and it was a totally smooth process. Well...not tonight! No way!
I get called into the blood cubby, as I like to call it. Not a room, just a cubby. There's a desk and a chair and some kind of medical table thingie. No door or anything. The woman in the lab coat smiles and puts the band around my upper arm, tells me to make a fist. This is nothing out of the ordinary...though the previous two times I had a fun squeeze toy. Not gonna lie, I wanted the squeeze toy! She taps on my vein, wipes the area with an alcohol pad, and then she just grabs the needle.
Whoa whoa whoa lady! What the hell do you think you're doing? You're going to pick up that needle, shove it into my arm, and draw my blood? YOU DON'T HAVE GLOVES ON WOMAN! Nor did I see you wash your hands. You've been fondling all sorts of crap in here and you haven't even washed your hands! Who the hell do you think you are?!?! Who taught you that AIDS are a lie???
I say nicely, "Are you going to use gloves?"
"No, do you want me to use gloves?"
"Uhh, yes, when blood is involved I would most definitely like gloves. In fact, I'll take gloves at all times please."
"I don't use the gloves because I can't feel your vein if I use gloves."
Who are you? Do you even have medical training? Is this going to be like a 5-year-old sticking needles randomly into my arm until my blood shoots out???
"Ok well I would still like for you to use gloves."
At this point another lady, who happens to be standing in the cubby and also happens to have drawn my blood before (quite well if I say so myself), turns around, tells the stupid disease-loving woman to leave, washes her hands, puts on gloves, and gets to work.
She tells me "the other lady is a lab technician, so she doesn't really know to use gloves".
Are you telling me that a lab tech was about to operate on my inner elbow and you were just going to LET HER???
Moral of the story - I miss America.
So I get in there, we chat a bit, and onto the ultrasound table I go. The muscles are improving, though he can still see a bit of damage. I'm allowed to get back into the gym, "light exercise" only as he says. We'll find out tomorrow around lunch whether or not my CK and liver enzymes are back to normal. He's certain they will be - says I'm making a good recovery. So I'll find out mid-day tomorrow if I'm allowed to attempt spin class in the evening. Oh boy - I can see it now. Me. On a spin bike. After all this time. Holy lord.
Speaking of blood work, I have to go to the diagnostics lab on the fourth floor of the medical centre to have my blood drawn. This is my third visit in two weeks, so I'm not exactly worried about it. So far the two women I've seen knew what they were doing with a needle and it was a totally smooth process. Well...not tonight! No way!
I get called into the blood cubby, as I like to call it. Not a room, just a cubby. There's a desk and a chair and some kind of medical table thingie. No door or anything. The woman in the lab coat smiles and puts the band around my upper arm, tells me to make a fist. This is nothing out of the ordinary...though the previous two times I had a fun squeeze toy. Not gonna lie, I wanted the squeeze toy! She taps on my vein, wipes the area with an alcohol pad, and then she just grabs the needle.
Whoa whoa whoa lady! What the hell do you think you're doing? You're going to pick up that needle, shove it into my arm, and draw my blood? YOU DON'T HAVE GLOVES ON WOMAN! Nor did I see you wash your hands. You've been fondling all sorts of crap in here and you haven't even washed your hands! Who the hell do you think you are?!?! Who taught you that AIDS are a lie???
I say nicely, "Are you going to use gloves?"
"No, do you want me to use gloves?"
"Uhh, yes, when blood is involved I would most definitely like gloves. In fact, I'll take gloves at all times please."
"I don't use the gloves because I can't feel your vein if I use gloves."
Who are you? Do you even have medical training? Is this going to be like a 5-year-old sticking needles randomly into my arm until my blood shoots out???
"Ok well I would still like for you to use gloves."
At this point another lady, who happens to be standing in the cubby and also happens to have drawn my blood before (quite well if I say so myself), turns around, tells the stupid disease-loving woman to leave, washes her hands, puts on gloves, and gets to work.
She tells me "the other lady is a lab technician, so she doesn't really know to use gloves".
Are you telling me that a lab tech was about to operate on my inner elbow and you were just going to LET HER???
Moral of the story - I miss America.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Chinese New Year - Sri Lanka Style
This past weekend was the Chinese New Year celebration, so Thursday and Friday were public holidays here in the Sling. I took off to Sri Lanka for the long weekend with 5 friends (Kelly, Kristen, Alison, Kat and Chris) and we had an amazing time!
We landed around 2am on Thursday morning (after flying BUSINESS!) and hopped in a van - ahem, the rattiest stinkin' van to exist with only three real seats in the back and no a/c - to our hotel in Colombo to catch some z's before our 7:30am (much nicer) van pickup. The first stop after Colombo (there's not much to see there other than weird - but way cool - hotels with private butlers who constantly ask to give you head massages, though you know the only person he wants to touch is Kristen) was the Pinawala Elephant Orphanage. Baby elephants are the cutest freaking thing you ever saw. Although I will say that when Kelly showed me the picture of the blind grandfather elephant with a hard on (I was off in wonderland and missed it) I nearly had a heart attack and got a whole new meaning of the word "elephantiasis". Jesus I never want to see that again. After purchasing some paper products made from elephant dung, we were off to Kandy.
In Kandy we saw a pretty sweet cultural dance show, complete with men walking on hot coals just after rubbing fire all over their entire bodies (mouths included). At this point we're basically one full day into the trip and already Kelly and I just want some western food - cheese and tomato sandwiches with french fries for dinner!
From Kandy we left for Unawatuna, stayed on the beach, and had a fabulous time. Can't really complain - the views were spectacular, the people friendly and smiling, the food came out hot and the beers came out cold. I've had just about enough rice and curry to last me a long time, to say the least. It's the food of Sri Lanka and they are damn proud of it! My goal is to replicate the curry we had at The Lucky Tuna restaurant on Unawatuna Beach. It had quite a bit of coconut milk, but there was a sort of sweet and spicy zing to it - I kept tasting nutmeg. So weird. Be on the lookout for future attempted rice and curry blog posts (whether it's a success is a totally different story).
We took a day trip to Galle Fort as well, did quite a bit of shopping, ate...wait for it...rice and curry, drank some Sri Lankan tea, and watched the sunset.
Good times had by all!
And now, only because I promised...the results from last Tuesday's weigh-in. Ugh, I just want to cry. How much weight has Sarah gained? Do I really have to say it? 135.5. Dear God ONE THIRTY FIVE POINT FIVE! It wasn't very long ago I was hanging out at 130 and feeling wonderful! Now I just feel fat and sassy.
So, I've got some new rules and some new challenges:
So when am I supposed to reach this goal? Giving myself plenty of time for ups and downs, I'm setting my 27th birthday, May 14, as goal day. Bring it!
We landed around 2am on Thursday morning (after flying BUSINESS!) and hopped in a van - ahem, the rattiest stinkin' van to exist with only three real seats in the back and no a/c - to our hotel in Colombo to catch some z's before our 7:30am (much nicer) van pickup. The first stop after Colombo (there's not much to see there other than weird - but way cool - hotels with private butlers who constantly ask to give you head massages, though you know the only person he wants to touch is Kristen) was the Pinawala Elephant Orphanage. Baby elephants are the cutest freaking thing you ever saw. Although I will say that when Kelly showed me the picture of the blind grandfather elephant with a hard on (I was off in wonderland and missed it) I nearly had a heart attack and got a whole new meaning of the word "elephantiasis". Jesus I never want to see that again. After purchasing some paper products made from elephant dung, we were off to Kandy.
From Kandy we left for Unawatuna, stayed on the beach, and had a fabulous time. Can't really complain - the views were spectacular, the people friendly and smiling, the food came out hot and the beers came out cold. I've had just about enough rice and curry to last me a long time, to say the least. It's the food of Sri Lanka and they are damn proud of it! My goal is to replicate the curry we had at The Lucky Tuna restaurant on Unawatuna Beach. It had quite a bit of coconut milk, but there was a sort of sweet and spicy zing to it - I kept tasting nutmeg. So weird. Be on the lookout for future attempted rice and curry blog posts (whether it's a success is a totally different story).
 |
| View of the ocean from Lucky Tuna Restaurant - Unawatuna, Sri Lanka |
 |
| Ali and Kristen, enjoying some Coronas on the beach. |
Good times had by all!
And now, only because I promised...the results from last Tuesday's weigh-in. Ugh, I just want to cry. How much weight has Sarah gained? Do I really have to say it? 135.5. Dear God ONE THIRTY FIVE POINT FIVE! It wasn't very long ago I was hanging out at 130 and feeling wonderful! Now I just feel fat and sassy.
So, I've got some new rules and some new challenges:
- Change weigh-in day to Friday for a pick-me-up, and so that I can use all of my extra points from the start and be a good girl for the rest of the week!
- Start measuring inches lost in addition to pounds, every other week or so.
- Remove all junk food from house! NOW.
- Post Smugglette pictures every other week or so, when measuring, so that all of you readers can keep up with my progress. If putting pictures of myself in a bikini for all the world to see isn't motivation, I don't know what is!
- No clothing purchases until goal has been achieved. This is going to be the hardest part. I am a shopping fanatic!
So when am I supposed to reach this goal? Giving myself plenty of time for ups and downs, I'm setting my 27th birthday, May 14, as goal day. Bring it!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Things are a-Changin'
I realize it was quite a hiatus I took for home leave and muscle breakage, so plenty has gone missing in the blog world. For starters, the Weight Watchers Points system changed. And when I say "changed", I mean it got a severe makeover.
If you keep up with Weight Watchers blogs, the entire ordeal has already been covered in great detail. I won't bore you with specifics. Basically, we've moved into the Points Plus scheme (which is why you'll notice my new posts include the Points+ values). I'm not one of those overachievers who goes back through all of her old posts and recalculates points+ values. Whatever - call me lazy. And I'm also not one of those crazy bloggers who calculates both new points and old points in all of her new posts.
However...if you see an old post, and desperately want to know the new points+ value, comment on that particular recipe. As soon as I get your comment, I will revise that particular post for points+. Deal?
Whew! It's sorted.
And since we're already on the topic, how do we all feel about this points+ crap? I mean REALLY?! I'm supposed to eat 29 points every single day? I've got my meals planned for tomorrow, and I'm sitting at 21 with no clue how I'm going to keep eating. I would just drink a 7 point glass of wine, but the whole "your muscles have also damaged your liver enzymes and you should avoid alcohol like the plague" thing puts a bit of a damper on that. What the hell is a girl supposed to eat for 7 points when she's trying to lose weight???
I'm still scared of my scale, but I'll be stepping on it Tuesday morning. Shit, this is going to suck. I can tell you right now that my stomach has taken a turn for the worse, and I'm betting a good 7 pounds have been added to my midsection over the past two months. Way to go, Sarah, way to go...
So I guess we'll just start all over with me trying to reach a goal and you inspiring and motivating along the way. Tuesday morning I'll take a self-portrait standing in front of a full-length mirror in nothing but my Smugglette. Then you can see what I'm talking about.
Till then, go eat some green beans!
If you keep up with Weight Watchers blogs, the entire ordeal has already been covered in great detail. I won't bore you with specifics. Basically, we've moved into the Points Plus scheme (which is why you'll notice my new posts include the Points+ values). I'm not one of those overachievers who goes back through all of her old posts and recalculates points+ values. Whatever - call me lazy. And I'm also not one of those crazy bloggers who calculates both new points and old points in all of her new posts.
However...if you see an old post, and desperately want to know the new points+ value, comment on that particular recipe. As soon as I get your comment, I will revise that particular post for points+. Deal?
Whew! It's sorted.
And since we're already on the topic, how do we all feel about this points+ crap? I mean REALLY?! I'm supposed to eat 29 points every single day? I've got my meals planned for tomorrow, and I'm sitting at 21 with no clue how I'm going to keep eating. I would just drink a 7 point glass of wine, but the whole "your muscles have also damaged your liver enzymes and you should avoid alcohol like the plague" thing puts a bit of a damper on that. What the hell is a girl supposed to eat for 7 points when she's trying to lose weight???
I'm still scared of my scale, but I'll be stepping on it Tuesday morning. Shit, this is going to suck. I can tell you right now that my stomach has taken a turn for the worse, and I'm betting a good 7 pounds have been added to my midsection over the past two months. Way to go, Sarah, way to go...
So I guess we'll just start all over with me trying to reach a goal and you inspiring and motivating along the way. Tuesday morning I'll take a self-portrait standing in front of a full-length mirror in nothing but my Smugglette. Then you can see what I'm talking about.
Till then, go eat some green beans!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Boredom.
Remember that personal trainer I told you about? Well, I signed up with her. And the next time I'm at the gym I'll be un-signing with her. Last Thursday she had me do 120 calf raises with 30 kilos on the resistance. I hadn't worked my calves in years. Woman is a complete idiot. Hell, I'm a complete idiot! 60 reps in you'd think I would scream and tell her it hurt too much - but I didn't. Because I want to look like this:
Friday morning I felt a bit of soreness, but I jumped on the plane to Bangkok anyway. By Saturday I was traipsing around Thailand with my fabulous friends, feeling some hard pain and walking like a silly person, but I dealt with it. By Sunday morning I was nauseous my calves hurt so bad, and I couldn't put my feet flat on the ground. No joke, I looked like a raptor...especially when I made my arms super short and did a crazy dinosaur face.
Monday I went to the doctor. Long story short, I have Rhabdomyolysis, but my kidneys are fine. Today I did a 1-hour ultrasound Doppler study to rule out deep vein thrombosis, which I don't have. And did I mention that I'm not allowed to work all week? I've been sitting on my couch watching old episodes of CSI and NCIS. BORING. I haven't been this bored in ages. Throw in the inability to walk and you've got hell in your own house. No joke.
Moral of the story? Check your personal trainer's credentials before you let them severely hurt you.
So after three weeks of nothing but Mexican food in Houston, I gained about 4 pounds. Not too terrible, considering I hadn't worked out more than once. But now I've put on another 2 pounds and I'm actually scared of my scale. I refuse to step on it for at least another week. No way in hell. As soon as I can walk again I'll start cooking, and the doc says swimming is my best exercise option for now. Good thing I live in Asia - the land of hot. But I'm feeling fat and sassy, and the cheesecake they sell downstairs is calling my name. I won't do it, but I'll tell you how badly I'm craving it. BADLY.
How about a new recipe or three?
 |
| No really though, this is my dream body. |
Monday I went to the doctor. Long story short, I have Rhabdomyolysis, but my kidneys are fine. Today I did a 1-hour ultrasound Doppler study to rule out deep vein thrombosis, which I don't have. And did I mention that I'm not allowed to work all week? I've been sitting on my couch watching old episodes of CSI and NCIS. BORING. I haven't been this bored in ages. Throw in the inability to walk and you've got hell in your own house. No joke.
Moral of the story? Check your personal trainer's credentials before you let them severely hurt you.
So after three weeks of nothing but Mexican food in Houston, I gained about 4 pounds. Not too terrible, considering I hadn't worked out more than once. But now I've put on another 2 pounds and I'm actually scared of my scale. I refuse to step on it for at least another week. No way in hell. As soon as I can walk again I'll start cooking, and the doc says swimming is my best exercise option for now. Good thing I live in Asia - the land of hot. But I'm feeling fat and sassy, and the cheesecake they sell downstairs is calling my name. I won't do it, but I'll tell you how badly I'm craving it. BADLY.
How about a new recipe or three?
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Greek Week!
No, this isn't the kind of Greek Week where all of your sorority sisters and fraternity brothers get together on the esplanade to see who's better. It's the Greek Week where we cook healthy, delicious, Greek and Mediterranean-inspired meals...obviously!
I completely skipped weigh-in on Tuesday, because that whole "Sarah's getting back on track and being good" thing from a couple of weeks ago failed miserably. Sure, I've been tracking. But I've also been giving in to temptation, overindulging, and skipping the gym. Why do I do this to myself? Why do I eat so many scones at my friend's brunch that I feel like I'm going to vomit? Literally. I did that. Yesterday.
I'm counting down the days until Brian and I leave for Houston, and I desperately want to reach my goal before then. At this rate, if I don't shape up, those last few pounds aren't going to ship out. So I'm planning ahead - further ahead than ever before! I've got meals written down and grocery lists made to last me through Thanksgiving, and I'm absolutely stoked to share some of my new recipes with you! I'll take some from Gina, some from Weight Watchers online, a few from random websites. And one of these days, before it's all over, I promise to develop one of my own.
So what's a girl to do when she wants so badly to reach her goals, but her own obsessive cravings and lack of motivation gets her down? Pointers? Tips? Inspiring words? Anyone???
I completely skipped weigh-in on Tuesday, because that whole "Sarah's getting back on track and being good" thing from a couple of weeks ago failed miserably. Sure, I've been tracking. But I've also been giving in to temptation, overindulging, and skipping the gym. Why do I do this to myself? Why do I eat so many scones at my friend's brunch that I feel like I'm going to vomit? Literally. I did that. Yesterday.
I'm counting down the days until Brian and I leave for Houston, and I desperately want to reach my goal before then. At this rate, if I don't shape up, those last few pounds aren't going to ship out. So I'm planning ahead - further ahead than ever before! I've got meals written down and grocery lists made to last me through Thanksgiving, and I'm absolutely stoked to share some of my new recipes with you! I'll take some from Gina, some from Weight Watchers online, a few from random websites. And one of these days, before it's all over, I promise to develop one of my own.
So what's a girl to do when she wants so badly to reach her goals, but her own obsessive cravings and lack of motivation gets her down? Pointers? Tips? Inspiring words? Anyone???
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Hibernation Preparation
...That's what I'm calling the last three months. My preparation for winter hibernation. I've been filling my stomach with anything and everything, enjoying the Singaporean culinary arts, and my gym has been sending me "I Miss You" cards. Ok, I lied about the gym...whatever. I have enough food in my belly to keep me plenty full during the winter months, and that has got to change! NOW!
Friends have recently joined Weight Watchers, and while I'm sitting a mere 3 pounds away from my goal of 127 (I somehow managed to maintain during my hibernation prep?!?), I figure it's about damn time to stop thinking and start doing.
You got it kids. I'm back! Official weigh-in happens tomorrow morning, and my scale is ready. My squishy arms and legs and belly (and ass...ugh) are getting kicked into shape with some serious spin, body tone, pilates, and yoga exercises. I'll keep you posted on my progress, the good eats, and what's new in the land of Singers.
New on the menu this week:
Raspberry Mustard Dressing
Salmon Croquettes
Quick Chicken Noodle Soup
Dijon Pork Chops
I'll let you know how they turn out :)
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
The Sick Diet?
I realize it's been ages since my last post, and I'm truly sorry about that. Last weekend (like 10 days ago) I got sick. Mega sick. I don't come down with things often, but when I do it's like hell freezes over and all life stops. Not to mention I get incredibly needy and I groan about everything. I'm just lucky that my mother has to love me no matter what - otherwise she would have given me away ages ago!
I'm not sure why Brian stuck around and took such amazing care of me for those 4 days, but he did, and I'm grateful!
So...needless to say, I didn't exactly count points, track anything, cook anything, or feel like blogging. Then from playing catch-up at work, still feeling a bit weak, attempting to get back into the gym, and also attempting to eat healthy, the last thing I wanted to do at home was turn on my lappy. Not happening.
When I weighed in last Tuesday morning, not at all surprised to see a low number on the scale (tends to happen when one hasn't eaten in three days), it stared back at me with a beautiful 131.5! Thank you to Brian for reminding me that it was "the sick diet". Well, I don't love the sick diet, because that number simply means that I feel like poop, I'm dehydrated, my body needs nutrients, and if I poke around I'll feel soft and squishy. Yes. Soft and squishy, people. That's what your stomach and arms and quads and butt feel like if you poke them after missing the gym for a week or two...yick!
So what was my goal for last week? Maintain that 131.5 while regaining my strength, eating healthy, and making my way back into the gym! And you know what? I did it.
I'm not sure why Brian stuck around and took such amazing care of me for those 4 days, but he did, and I'm grateful!
So...needless to say, I didn't exactly count points, track anything, cook anything, or feel like blogging. Then from playing catch-up at work, still feeling a bit weak, attempting to get back into the gym, and also attempting to eat healthy, the last thing I wanted to do at home was turn on my lappy. Not happening.
When I weighed in last Tuesday morning, not at all surprised to see a low number on the scale (tends to happen when one hasn't eaten in three days), it stared back at me with a beautiful 131.5! Thank you to Brian for reminding me that it was "the sick diet". Well, I don't love the sick diet, because that number simply means that I feel like poop, I'm dehydrated, my body needs nutrients, and if I poke around I'll feel soft and squishy. Yes. Soft and squishy, people. That's what your stomach and arms and quads and butt feel like if you poke them after missing the gym for a week or two...yick!
So what was my goal for last week? Maintain that 131.5 while regaining my strength, eating healthy, and making my way back into the gym! And you know what? I did it.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Even Fingers Can Get Skinny
I wrote this draft last week, and then forgot to post it! A little late is better than never :) Here goes!
A long, long time ago I used to be 12. I know - shocking. As I quickly approached my 13th birthday (one of extreme importance in the Jewish faith), still carrying baby fat with a bit of extra fat to go along, I thought about my Bat Mitzvah. And, like any nearly-13 year old Jewish girl, I wasn't exactly thinking about the service, or the meaning, or my faith. I was instead thinking about my party, and thinking about my gifts!
When my amazing cousin Melysa had her Bat Mitzvah two years before, my family had given her a birthstone ring - a beautiful sapphire and diamond setting on a gold band. I loved it. I wanted it. So when I had my own special day, I was the happiest and most ecstatic little 13 year old on the planet when I received my very own birthstone ring. My Auntie Jill, Uncle Rodger, and cousins Melysa and Jessa had given me a gorgeous emerald and diamond birthstone ring.
So what's the point of this, you may ask? Well, until this morning, I have never worn this ring. I have spent the past 13 years with a size 8 ring finger. Now, I don't think that necessarily constitutes "fat fingers", as numerous women wear a size 8 ring; but this particular birthstone ring is smaller. I'm not sure of the exact size, but I would venture to guess that it's around a 7.
So today, the 10th of June, 2010, I am officially thin enough to wear that ring. And it feels amazing.
A long, long time ago I used to be 12. I know - shocking. As I quickly approached my 13th birthday (one of extreme importance in the Jewish faith), still carrying baby fat with a bit of extra fat to go along, I thought about my Bat Mitzvah. And, like any nearly-13 year old Jewish girl, I wasn't exactly thinking about the service, or the meaning, or my faith. I was instead thinking about my party, and thinking about my gifts!
When my amazing cousin Melysa had her Bat Mitzvah two years before, my family had given her a birthstone ring - a beautiful sapphire and diamond setting on a gold band. I loved it. I wanted it. So when I had my own special day, I was the happiest and most ecstatic little 13 year old on the planet when I received my very own birthstone ring. My Auntie Jill, Uncle Rodger, and cousins Melysa and Jessa had given me a gorgeous emerald and diamond birthstone ring.
So what's the point of this, you may ask? Well, until this morning, I have never worn this ring. I have spent the past 13 years with a size 8 ring finger. Now, I don't think that necessarily constitutes "fat fingers", as numerous women wear a size 8 ring; but this particular birthstone ring is smaller. I'm not sure of the exact size, but I would venture to guess that it's around a 7.
So today, the 10th of June, 2010, I am officially thin enough to wear that ring. And it feels amazing.
Still a teensy bit tight, but it fits! Sorry for the poor quality - I took this picture on my BlackBerry :)
Monday, June 7, 2010
Getting Back on the Horse
My favorite woman in the world recently commented. She wants more Smuggling Budgies, and asked what's in store for us next. Well, I have no idea. May was a month full of travel, restaurants, and fun. But it was also a month lacking routine, tracking, and motivation. When you spend a weekend in Thailand, the following weekend celebrating your birthday, the weekend after that showing your boyfriend's family the sights (and eats) of Singapore, and the next week trekking Beijing and The Great Wall, it's a bit tough to stick with it!
So here I am, having fallen from my horse - I'm ready to get back on. Weigh-in is tomorrow morning, and I have no idea what's in store! The second to last weight was 135 (up 2lbs from pre-Phuket), but last week was 134. Considering the events of the past three weeks, I'll take 134 any day! I am fairly certain tomorrow morning's result will be in the 135 range - this past weekend was none other than a food-fest.
And although I got back on track today, counted every single thing I ate, and am ready to start this week, I'm struggling to find a new goal. I am a girl of goals! I want something to work for!
On the one hand, my dad and brother will be here in just over a month. They're flying all the way from Houston and arrive in Singapore the evening of July 14th. We leave for Bali, Indonesia on July 19th, so I'd say that's a pretty kickass motivator. But somehow it just doesn't do the same thing as Phuket and a tiny bikini.
So what's next? What should I work for? How about working to reach the goal I've always had, but never reached? Regardless of what the scale says tomorrow morning, I am ready to commit to this (again) and stay on track through June and the first half of July. The week my family is here will be full of good eats, but that's ok.
If at that point I've reached my goal, I'll work on maintaining. If not, I'll keep on trucking along!
It's your comments, your phone calls, your emails, and your love that keeps me inspired. Please continue to send me updates, and send me your own progress so that I can brag about your successes.
So here I am, having fallen from my horse - I'm ready to get back on. Weigh-in is tomorrow morning, and I have no idea what's in store! The second to last weight was 135 (up 2lbs from pre-Phuket), but last week was 134. Considering the events of the past three weeks, I'll take 134 any day! I am fairly certain tomorrow morning's result will be in the 135 range - this past weekend was none other than a food-fest.
And although I got back on track today, counted every single thing I ate, and am ready to start this week, I'm struggling to find a new goal. I am a girl of goals! I want something to work for!
On the one hand, my dad and brother will be here in just over a month. They're flying all the way from Houston and arrive in Singapore the evening of July 14th. We leave for Bali, Indonesia on July 19th, so I'd say that's a pretty kickass motivator. But somehow it just doesn't do the same thing as Phuket and a tiny bikini.
So what's next? What should I work for? How about working to reach the goal I've always had, but never reached? Regardless of what the scale says tomorrow morning, I am ready to commit to this (again) and stay on track through June and the first half of July. The week my family is here will be full of good eats, but that's ok.
If at that point I've reached my goal, I'll work on maintaining. If not, I'll keep on trucking along!
It's your comments, your phone calls, your emails, and your love that keeps me inspired. Please continue to send me updates, and send me your own progress so that I can brag about your successes.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Birthdays ROCK!
Just after writing the previous post, I made my way down to the mailbox area. I figured it was my birthday and there was definitely going to be something special in there, right?!?! Well there was. There totally freaking was. I call my friend Lynette my "fun new friend", even though we've known each other for a couple years. It wasn't until she moved to Taipei that we started getting close, which is totally weird, but worked out well! She moved back to Texas recently, and happened to send me the best unintentional birthday gift to ever exist! I only say "unintentional" because I am fairly certain it hadn't occurred to her that this present would arrive on my birthday. I was just lucky! So there I am, staring at this package from my friend, wondering what the eff is inside! Is it a book? It kind of feels like a book...what the heck is this???
That's right, people. My amazing and fantastic friend Lynette bought me STRAWBERRY CAKE MIX! Strawberry Quick Cake here I come!!! ...if only I could finish the lemon! I'm considering pawning it off on Brian ;)
If you haven't got a clue what I'm referring to, you can check it out here.
On another note, I'm completely and utterly worried about weigh-in tomorrow morning. My weekend was ridiculous, I ate everything in sight, not to mention drinking what feels like an entire swimming pool of booze. Last night, standing (swaying?) over my kitchen table at 9pm I decided it was a grand idea to open the box of chocolates from a friend and eat a bite of each one to "sample the flavors". Needless to say I invented a totally filling and healthy dinner that didn't lack in the flavor department.
So back to weigh-in...I'm preparing myself mentally for the scale. I will take it like a pro, whatever it says. I have done this to myself willingly, and it was worth every minute! But now I must get myself back on track and set some new goals.
Now that the Smugglette is out of the way, I think it's time to find a new "something". Any ideas??? We can count down to my next Bali trip (when my brother and dad arrive!!!), or maybe July 4th? I want something good! ...though I don't know if I'll ever top a trip to Thailand and a teensy bikini
That's right, people. My amazing and fantastic friend Lynette bought me STRAWBERRY CAKE MIX! Strawberry Quick Cake here I come!!! ...if only I could finish the lemon! I'm considering pawning it off on Brian ;)
If you haven't got a clue what I'm referring to, you can check it out here.
On another note, I'm completely and utterly worried about weigh-in tomorrow morning. My weekend was ridiculous, I ate everything in sight, not to mention drinking what feels like an entire swimming pool of booze. Last night, standing (swaying?) over my kitchen table at 9pm I decided it was a grand idea to open the box of chocolates from a friend and eat a bite of each one to "sample the flavors". Needless to say I invented a totally filling and healthy dinner that didn't lack in the flavor department.
Strawberry Balsamic Salad - 5.5 Points
- 1 1/2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup arugula (rocket)
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 1/2Tbsp red onion, chopped
- 1 1/2 Tbsp pecans, chopped
- 2 Tbsp Newman's Own Balsamic Vinaigrette (or similar)
Toss all ingredients together and serve!
So back to weigh-in...I'm preparing myself mentally for the scale. I will take it like a pro, whatever it says. I have done this to myself willingly, and it was worth every minute! But now I must get myself back on track and set some new goals.
Now that the Smugglette is out of the way, I think it's time to find a new "something". Any ideas??? We can count down to my next Bali trip (when my brother and dad arrive!!!), or maybe July 4th? I want something good! ...though I don't know if I'll ever top a trip to Thailand and a teensy bikini
Friday, May 14, 2010
Royales with Cheese are GO!
I did it. I mean I actually did it. We landed in Phuket last Thursday night, I downed enough booze to throw inhibitions out the door, and I put on that damn Smugglette! The bottoms were tiny, but I don't think I looked half bad in the thing!
Phuket was an amazing place; our villas were INCREDIBLE, the Thai people are beautiful, and we had one hell of a birthday bash for my friends!
I did skip weigh-in on Tuesday. I was definitely feeling like a fat kid, and considering my lack of exercise over the past week (I did however use the villa's elliptical for 20 minutes - gasp!), it just wasn't happening. So I'll wait until next Tuesday and hopefully maintain. I'm not shooting for any extreme weight loss goals this week either...
Today I am 26. That's right - it's my friggin' BIRTHDAY! So tonight I'm celebrating with good friends, Singapore's best version of Mexican food, and lots of margaritas! And of course what better way to end a birthday weekend than with champagne brunch with 21 of your closest friends? Needless to say, I'm binging this weekend - lots of food and lots of booze! Love it.
So for now I'll leave you with the proof...
Phuket was an amazing place; our villas were INCREDIBLE, the Thai people are beautiful, and we had one hell of a birthday bash for my friends!
I did skip weigh-in on Tuesday. I was definitely feeling like a fat kid, and considering my lack of exercise over the past week (I did however use the villa's elliptical for 20 minutes - gasp!), it just wasn't happening. So I'll wait until next Tuesday and hopefully maintain. I'm not shooting for any extreme weight loss goals this week either...
Today I am 26. That's right - it's my friggin' BIRTHDAY! So tonight I'm celebrating with good friends, Singapore's best version of Mexican food, and lots of margaritas! And of course what better way to end a birthday weekend than with champagne brunch with 21 of your closest friends? Needless to say, I'm binging this weekend - lots of food and lots of booze! Love it.
So for now I'll leave you with the proof...
A not so great shot, but there you have it! Me in a Smugglette!
One of our beautiful villas (this one is where Brian and I stayed)
The views from our villa - spectacular!
Saturday lunch - Thai fried rice with chicken, spicy beef salad, and the freshest cucumbers I've ever had...delicious!
And finally, the perfect ad for Budgy Smugglers (I'm on the right)
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
I Think My Scale's on Crack.
There are a few different Weight Watchers blogs that I keep up with (Bitch Cakes and OK Just One More Beer are my faves!), and recently they've talked a lot about change. What are the steps to change? How can we adjust to change? Our environment has so much to do with making the right choices and staying on track. For instance, my environment this weekend was definitely NOT conducive to healthy change. I had three different desserts in my kitchen, I had jelly beans in the house, I had an entire loaf of fresh-baked rye bread on the counter! The BBQ I attended on Saturday night was full of delectable and unhealthy goodness (and I perfected the act of gorging that night), and Friday and Saturday weren't exactly points-friendly either.
All said and done, when I stood on the scale this morning, I was certain I was still dreaming. Could this be real? Did I seriously lose this week? You have got to be kidding me...I ate Jelly Bellies and drank red wine, I drank white wine, I drank vodka, I ate a hot dog! I ate three Swag Bars on Sunday! Holy CRAP! I stood there for a few minutes, and realized something: my brain hasn't completed its transformation. My self image hasn't, to be more specific.
I am happier than I have ever felt in my life. I live differently, I love differently. Yes, it's true, I am a changed person, and I am definitely not the same Sarah I was three years ago. My self esteem has most definitely changed (I actually have it now)! I walk into a room and I'm no longer self-conscious, I feel attractive, and I can tell (and I love) when people are looking at me!
So what's the problem?
The chubby little girl inside of me, the girl the neighbors used to call "Shamu" (they actually did - it was traumatizing), still exists. When I look in the mirror, I recognize that skinny girl staring back. But when there is no mirror, it's so easy to forget. My mind wanders into its old state sometimes. My friend Courtney in Houston used to tell me that my body was losing weight, but my mind hadn't caught up. I now finally understand what she meant. I have to think when I'm shopping for clothes. My first instinct is to grab that large top, when now I'm actually a medium, and sometimes even a small. Granted, I don't go for the size 12 pants anymore, but it took awhile for me to switch over from 8 to 6. Now the size 4 is fast-approaching, and I'm still training my brain to pick up the 6!
I leave in two days for the amazing (and occasionally dreaded) trip to Phuket. The trip that started this whole blog; the trip where I will (possibly) wear an itsy bitsy teenie weenie Royales with Cheese Smugglette bikini. Have I reached my goal? Not yet.
But I am ecstatic at the prospect of that goal! I am thrilled with my progress! I am happy!
My Smugglette is still in transit, being carried to Singapore by a friend in Oz, and I'm hoping that when I do receive it, that Aussie size 10 will fit like a charm. And though my stomach may still need a bit of flattening, and my thighs a bit more toning, I hope that I can rock out in that bikini this weekend.
Hell, the scale's not on crack. I am not dreaming. I really do weigh 133 pounds. Holy shit.
All said and done, when I stood on the scale this morning, I was certain I was still dreaming. Could this be real? Did I seriously lose this week? You have got to be kidding me...I ate Jelly Bellies and drank red wine, I drank white wine, I drank vodka, I ate a hot dog! I ate three Swag Bars on Sunday! Holy CRAP! I stood there for a few minutes, and realized something: my brain hasn't completed its transformation. My self image hasn't, to be more specific.
I am happier than I have ever felt in my life. I live differently, I love differently. Yes, it's true, I am a changed person, and I am definitely not the same Sarah I was three years ago. My self esteem has most definitely changed (I actually have it now)! I walk into a room and I'm no longer self-conscious, I feel attractive, and I can tell (and I love) when people are looking at me!
So what's the problem?
The chubby little girl inside of me, the girl the neighbors used to call "Shamu" (they actually did - it was traumatizing), still exists. When I look in the mirror, I recognize that skinny girl staring back. But when there is no mirror, it's so easy to forget. My mind wanders into its old state sometimes. My friend Courtney in Houston used to tell me that my body was losing weight, but my mind hadn't caught up. I now finally understand what she meant. I have to think when I'm shopping for clothes. My first instinct is to grab that large top, when now I'm actually a medium, and sometimes even a small. Granted, I don't go for the size 12 pants anymore, but it took awhile for me to switch over from 8 to 6. Now the size 4 is fast-approaching, and I'm still training my brain to pick up the 6!
I leave in two days for the amazing (and occasionally dreaded) trip to Phuket. The trip that started this whole blog; the trip where I will (possibly) wear an itsy bitsy teenie weenie Royales with Cheese Smugglette bikini. Have I reached my goal? Not yet.
But I am ecstatic at the prospect of that goal! I am thrilled with my progress! I am happy!
My Smugglette is still in transit, being carried to Singapore by a friend in Oz, and I'm hoping that when I do receive it, that Aussie size 10 will fit like a charm. And though my stomach may still need a bit of flattening, and my thighs a bit more toning, I hope that I can rock out in that bikini this weekend.
Hell, the scale's not on crack. I am not dreaming. I really do weigh 133 pounds. Holy shit.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Sweaty is the New Sexy?
Work has been super stressful for the past couple weeks (like it's turning me into a psycho). This could definitely be a bad thing, considering Sarah = Stress Eater (maybe now Stress Eating Psycho, but whatever). But do you know what is so wonderful about my life these days? I take that stress, and I spin it into something positive. I use it as motivation to eat healthier, work out harder, and even relax! If there is anything I can offer from these past weeks at work, and I have spent a hell of a lot of time at work, it's this: don't let the stress get you down. Use the stress to motivate, to inspire!
I weighed in on Tuesday morning....dun dun dunnnnnnn
I weighed in on Tuesday morning....dun dun dunnnnnnn
135.5!
Dude, seriously?! Yes, seriously! I'm so happy and so proud of myself! Two pounds down this week, and I even went to Morton's Steakhouse! I'm sorry, but rib eyes are like the best tasting, fattiest piece of cow on the planet. Bragging rights? I think so!
I finally made it to the gym tonight for the first time since body tone last Thursday. Let's just say spin was ROUGH. There's no better way to describe it. I was struggling, panting, dripping with sweat. But now I feel amazing.
So now I want you to imagine what I looked like immediately after class. Really picture it - drenched, hair all over the place (not to mention stuck to my forehead), purplish reddish splotchy face. Yeah, so attractive.
The greatest and best compliment I have ever received was tonight, and no one said a single thing to me.
I got checked out at the gym. Not once, not twice, but three times, by three different men - looking like that! Shocking.
I realize that this is the braggiest bragging post you have ever read, but if my week could spin around like that, it should help everyone out there alter their perception during times of stress.
Take that stress, and flip it around to something good! Work it out!
Last but not least, I demand that every single one of you buy two things on your next trip to the grocery store - cake mix and angel food cake mix. No I'm not joking.
I found this "recipe" on Gina's quick snack ideas page, tried it for the first time tonight, and I'm in HEAVEN!
1 box Angel Food cake mix
1 box any other flavor cake mix
Mix it all together, store it in an air-tight container. When you want a sweet snack, scoop 1/4 cup into a coffee mug, add 2 Tbsp water, stir it up, and microwave on high for 1 minute.
WHOA! So freaking good!
1/4 cup with 2 Tbsp water = 2 pts
1/3 cup with 3 Tbsp water = 3 pts
This time I used lemon cake mix - light, fluffy, slightly tart but totally delicious. I desperately want to try strawberry. Please send me strawberry cake mix! Singapore doesn't have any!!! Gah!
Over and out.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
You Win Some, You Lose Some
I'll start by saying that Bali was amazingly fantastic, and every person on the planet should make it there at least once in their life. But I'll also say that the quantity of booze and delectable food is hard core and it would be tough for even the most committed of weight watchers to follow the plan while vacationing in this lovely part of Indonesia.
I step on the scale this morning, eyes closed but slightly peeped open as if I'm watching a gory movie, crossing my fingers and muttering to myself, "Please oh please oh please MAINTAIN!"
Mother trucker. 137.5. Great. Fanfreakingtastic. Awesome. So then of course I start beating myself up over this measly little one-pound addition to my gut, only to realize that's no way to learn from this, and I alter my perception to one of lesson-learning and motivation for next week.
Then I spent the better part of the morning coming up with all of the different excuses I could give to my blog readers about why I didn't weigh in this week - a simple attempt to keep you all from knowing about my tiny blip.
Yeah, that would have been silly anyway. So I sit here, Sarah Koopersmith of Singapore, attempting to lose weight and look hot in a bikini, admitting to the world that I was unable to maintain a weight of 136.5 pounds while living it up in Bali for three days. I'm fairly certain all will be ok, and life will go on as usual.
This week, however, it's on like freaking Donkey Kong!
I will track every day.
I will eat all of my fruits and veggies.
I will work out harder and longer.
I will lose at least one pound.
I will stay motivated and inspired.
And damnit I WILL enjoy every minute of every day!
So there you have it. Take that, excess flab! I'm kicking you to the curb.
Photo courtesy of my friend Ellen - taken during our drive from Jimbaran Bay to Tulamben
I step on the scale this morning, eyes closed but slightly peeped open as if I'm watching a gory movie, crossing my fingers and muttering to myself, "Please oh please oh please MAINTAIN!"
Mother trucker. 137.5. Great. Fanfreakingtastic. Awesome. So then of course I start beating myself up over this measly little one-pound addition to my gut, only to realize that's no way to learn from this, and I alter my perception to one of lesson-learning and motivation for next week.
Then I spent the better part of the morning coming up with all of the different excuses I could give to my blog readers about why I didn't weigh in this week - a simple attempt to keep you all from knowing about my tiny blip.
Yeah, that would have been silly anyway. So I sit here, Sarah Koopersmith of Singapore, attempting to lose weight and look hot in a bikini, admitting to the world that I was unable to maintain a weight of 136.5 pounds while living it up in Bali for three days. I'm fairly certain all will be ok, and life will go on as usual.
This week, however, it's on like freaking Donkey Kong!
I will track every day.
I will eat all of my fruits and veggies.
I will work out harder and longer.
I will lose at least one pound.
I will stay motivated and inspired.
And damnit I WILL enjoy every minute of every day!
So there you have it. Take that, excess flab! I'm kicking you to the curb.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Smuggling
I'm heading to the airport in literally half an hour, but I wanted to squeeze in a quick blog before leaving ... for BALI! Yes, I will throw that in your face at every single opportunity.
So...while I'm in BALI this weekend, I won't have an easy time counting points. But I do know the points value of certain foods, and I do know when I'm eating a fruit or veggie. Sarah's plan this weekend - find fruits and veggies, listen to my stomach, and don't overdo the booze (the third one will be tough).
But, the real reason for this blog post is Smugglettes. We ordered them today, and I'm totally freaked out! I've never tried Aussie sizes before, and the online conversion says I'm a 10. Royales with Cheese size 10 here we go! Keep your fingers crossed that when the time does come (check the bottom of my blog for a countdown!) my skinny ass is going to fit perfectly into those budgy smugglers! ...I think I can I think I can!
Whew! And off we go! ...to BALI!
So...while I'm in BALI this weekend, I won't have an easy time counting points. But I do know the points value of certain foods, and I do know when I'm eating a fruit or veggie. Sarah's plan this weekend - find fruits and veggies, listen to my stomach, and don't overdo the booze (the third one will be tough).
But, the real reason for this blog post is Smugglettes. We ordered them today, and I'm totally freaked out! I've never tried Aussie sizes before, and the online conversion says I'm a 10. Royales with Cheese size 10 here we go! Keep your fingers crossed that when the time does come (check the bottom of my blog for a countdown!) my skinny ass is going to fit perfectly into those budgy smugglers! ...I think I can I think I can!
Whew! And off we go! ...to BALI!
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