Losing Debbie

Not over the hump :(

2008-09-07T19:01:00.002-05:00

Well, as it has been about 3 weeks ago that I last
posted, you can probably guess why. I just don't
get how the body works. I basically do the exact
same things week in and week out yet, sometimes
I loose and sometimes I gain. I am not giving up!!!
I have come this far and have full intentions of
going further. So, with that said - Please keep me
in your prayers that what ever I need to be doing
I will figure out or someone will help me figure it
out. I really do want to see new numbers on the
scale soon.

Over the Hump!?!?

2008-08-13T19:42:00.008-05:00

I think I may be coming off that terrible, horrible,
no good, very bad plateau I have been on for the
past 5 months. I lost again this week, 2.5 pounds
to be exact. That officially puts me at a new number
by 1/10 of a pound. If feels good to finally be a
a new "lowest" weight. Now, the true test will come
next Wednesday when I have to face the scales again.
I so hope and pray that the plateau is over and I
am now back on the loosing track. I guess we shall
see. Thanks for hanging in there with me.

Down .5 this week

2008-08-09T13:51:00.002-05:00

It is a small one, but it is a loss. I am hoping for
another next week. If I am successful I will
declare my time on the plateau over. I have
not lost 3 weeks in a row since March. I am
hoping to get into "new numbers" in a week
or two. I will let you know.
I am still enjoying whole grains. Last Sunday
I made Whole Wheat pasta - yum yum!! Other
than that I am still sticking to my Melba Toast
and Whole Wheat English Muffins.
I have been running this week and am sooooo
thankful for the rains on Thursday that has
given us some much needed relief from the
thick humidity - even at 5:30 in the morning.
I got out Friday morning and was shocked at
how easy it was to get into the run. The air
was so clean and crisp - Ahhhhh. I plan to
run everyday for as long as this weather holds.
Curves can wait until the Arkansas humidity
returns. See ya next week.

Oh, Wow - Its been a while

2008-08-01T18:54:00.002-05:00

Well, the couple of weeks after vacation I yo-yoed a bit,
but stayed the course. Week before last I got a call in
the middle of the week from my weight loss counselor.
It seems she had been talking to a doctor and in general
terms, without violating any of my rights, discussed my
plateau and the trouble I am having with getting over it.
He suggested she help me add back whole grains. He
believed it would be what my metabolism needed to
jump start again. So, I went in for "the whole grains
talk" and cautiously added a few last week. WELL, I
think it might be working. I lost 3.4 pounds. Now, the
real proof will come in a couple more weeks if I can
continue to loose. In the meanwhile, however, I am
enjoying Whole Wheat English Muffins with Walden
Farms Peanut spread (a peanut butter substitute) with
banana a couple times a week, and I have fallen in love
with whole grain Melba toast. I love the crunch, and
only 60 calories per serving. This week I tried a Subway
Veggie Delight on Whole Wheat - it was delicious!
Anyway - we will see if the grains thing is indeed what
my body needed and I will keep you posted.

Vacation - Down 4.9 pounds

2008-07-12T15:54:00.002-05:00

I knew vacation was going to be a wonderful
experience, but who knew it would also be
a good weight loss experience as well. I had
a wonderful time with all my friends who went
to Nashville and hung out around the 4th of July.
The fireworks in Nashville are truly AWESOME.
The food in Nashville is GREAT, and the opportunity
for exercise (walking) is abundant. I can't wait
until I can vacation again!

Holiday Week - No Class

2008-07-03T08:08:00.003-05:00

Well, it is a holiday week and HMR is moving to a new building,
so we did not have class this week. I was up just a little last week,
but am working hard to be down by next Wednesday.
I am so excited that I will be at the Fireworks show in Nashville
this 4th of July. I have always watched it on CMT and wanted to
be there. Thanks to all my great friends, who seem to all have
family in the Nashville area, I will be there with my friends. FUN!!!
I will post again next week and let you know just how much fun
we had.

Down 2.6 this week

2008-06-18T19:17:00.003-05:00

Finally, a good weight loss. I hope this is the beginning
of several weeks to come of good weight losses. I did
a little diet experimenting and the change of routine
seemed to do my body good.
What did not do my body good was trying to be helpful
last Saturday evening at Grandma's. Her yard was
a bit shaggy, so I volunteered to mow (push mow) for
her. Well, after fighting to get the mower started, I
made almost one "lap" around the yard and pulled
the muscle in my calf. Anyway to make a long story
short, my parents had to finish the lawn while I sat
with my leg iced and up. Now, you would think with the
exercise I have been doing something like this wouldn't
happen so easily, but it did. So, I am now back on the
stationary bike and trying to work on my core by doing
some set-ups everyday. I NEVER IN A MILLION YEARS
would have thought this next statement would have ever
come across my lips, but I MISS RUNNING. I know what
I was doing might not be considered really running, but
I miss it just the same. I am not sure how long it will take
for this thing to heal or for me to get back to the place I was
with my workout routine. Please pray that the healing goes
quickly and I can get back to training for the 5K.

Pictures

2008-06-11T18:58:00.004-05:00

Here are the promised "before" and "now" pictures.
The one on the left was taken at my parent's house
in June/July 2006. Then in February of 2007 I began
the HMR weight loss program through St. Bernards Regional
Medical Center. To date I have lost 116 pounds. The
picture on the right was taken about 6-8 weeks ago as
a part of a set that will be used on the HMR local
website. If you are new to my blog and want to know
the story in between the pictures that is what this
blog is all about. I have posted almost every week
from the beginning of this journey until now. I am not
finished with the journey. I would like to loose another
30-50 pounds. It will depend somewhat on what my diabetes
will allow. As I wrote last week, it seems at some point
weight loss and diabetes don't mix too well. However, I
am not convinced I am at that point just yet. I lost
a pound this week and will be working hard to have an
even better loss next week. Until then...

Running

2008-06-05T06:23:00.002-05:00

I have finally worked up to actually "doing" the
Hal Higdon 30/30 plan.I have built enough stamina
to run for 1 minute, then walk for 1 minute, then
run for 1 minute and so on for a sustained 25 minutes.
The way I do it is I walk the first 7-10 minutes just
getting my joints warmed up. Then, I start the minute
intervals of running and walking. I do that for 25
minutes. The last 3-5 minutes I walk to cool down.
I accomplished these times for the first time yesterday
and was able to repeat the process today. Now, I will
work to be able to 1. increase the distance I am able
to go during those times and 2. run longer than I walk.
All of this is great for the calorie burn, but...

It seems (or so the diet counselor thinks)that the
increase of intensity in my workouts has triggered
something in my body that is causing it to think it
is not getting enough nutrition. Therefore, it is
holding on to more than it should. This week I was
actually up a little. The counselor has asked me to
add into my daily plan one extra shake. We are hoping
that extra protein in the shake will help my body
release some of what it feels like it needs to store.
We also know we have run into some problems with
insulin resistance. It seems when you are insulin
dependent there comes a point when your need for insulin
actually works against being able to loose weight. I
don't exactly get it, but I think I am at that place.
I am going to keep working on it (stay in the box)
and in the meantime focus more on running and training
to run a 5K and a little less on the number on the scale.

Exactly the same

2008-05-29T19:11:00.003-05:00

Well, I held my own this week. My PA was down a little,
but my eating was in the box. So, I guess I know I have
to keep the PA up in order to be successful. To that end
I am going to walk in the Rely for Life benefiting
the American Cancer Society on June 6-7. I am walking with
a team from Curves. We had a meeting tonight to pick up our
cool shirts and make plans for event night. It sounds like
great fun. Between now and then I want to walk/run some
everyday in addition to the Curves workouts. Exercise used to
be a challenge just to do it. Now I don't mind doing it so
much, but finding the time to get in enough to make a difference
is tough. I will let you know how I am doing with this challenge
next week.

Catch up time

2008-05-21T18:32:00.002-05:00

Wow - I really didn't realize how long it
had been since I blogged. Sorry - I have
been out of town for work every week for
the last 3 weeks. Enough of that...

Anyway, tonight I lost 3.1. pounds. I am
very happy about that, because during the
time I was out of town I had gained some.
I don't quite have it all back off, but am
very close. The bonus is I learned some
valuable lessons through travel such as,
1. Even healthy selections at a restaurant
have a lot more salt than I am used to.
2. Salt leads to water retention - boo.
3. Not all menu descriptions are created
equal. What sounds healthy may not be.
4. Some restaurants are VERY diet friendly
(i.e. Outback and Chili's) and will even
let you substitute grilled veggies for the
rice or potatoes if you ask :)
5. Yes, they can grill the shrimp and
scallops without the oil - if you ask.
6. Some observant waitresses will notice
when you are making healthy choices and
actually ask if you would like the bread and
butter before just slapping it on the table
in front of you.
7. They will sometimes even offer you choices
(like grilled asparagus - yum) that are not on the
regular menu if they realize you are trying
to make healthy choices.

Enough lessons learned. I read Brad's blog and
see that he has had similar experiences with travel
and weight control. I don't remember where he is on
our little wager to loose 30 pounds, but I have lost
2.3 in that effort. So, if you are actually reading
this and haven't given up on me ever blogging again -
Please keep the cheers coming. I am at the point of
needing the encouragement to get back on the right
downward trend. I will blog next week - until then
Happy Memorial Day.

Down another 2.1 - WOOHOO!!

2008-04-25T18:14:00.003-05:00

Wow! Are you guys cheerleaders or what? Way to
go. I actually read my own blog more this week
because I wanted to see the comments you all were
leaving to encourage me. Mommymeepa - I love
team spirit - Thanks. I have a lot to tell you
all tonight, so I better get started.

First, I walked/ran my first ever 8K last weekend.
I was very proud of me. I finished in 1H 13M 16S.
The most exciting part for me was at mile 3 - which
is the distance of the 5K I did 2 weeks earlier - I
has shave 5 minutes off my time from 2 weeks ago. That
was the push I needed to get me through mile 4 (almost
all up hill)which I thought would kill me. I had a
friend take a picture at the end. When he e-mails it
to me I will post it.

Speaking of pictures - Thursday I "posed" for the St.
Bernard's HMR photo shoot. They asked me and a few
others who have had great success with the program to
pose and bring a before picture. They are going to
use them on their website. I will post that as well
when it is up. It was really a lot of fun. They hired
a professional photographer and everything. Can you
tell I was impressed :)

Next week may see a late, or no post because I will be
out of town. I am going to try really hard to get into
the weightloss center when I get back to weigh in, but
I don't know if I will make it. I had to "bank" my
meeting by attending an extra one last week and will be
calling in all my numbers, but the actual stepping on
the scale will obviously have to wait until I am back
in town. I promise not to leave you hanging too long.

Until then - Please keep cheering me on. It is so much
fun to see what you all are saying to me and on those
really hard days - to log on and see 8 comments...
Even if some comment more than once - it just helps me
to realize how much you are behind me and support what
I am trying so hard to accomplish. I can never thank
you enough for your support. Keep it coming.

Yo - Down

2008-04-16T20:14:00.002-05:00

I like it when the yo-yo is going down. Last week my yo-yo
stayed the same, but this week I am down 2.6 pounds. I am
logging in more than 3,000 calories of PA each week and
staying in my "box". Now, I don't remember if I have told
you that my "box" has changed a little. I am doing something
called maintenance boot camp. I have 3 shakes, 5 fruits/veggies,
and Lean Proteins everyday. Lean Proteins can be HMR entrees,
commercial entrees (i.e. Lean Cuisine), or actual lean protein
(i.e. turkey, chicken, fish). This sure has allowed for more
variety in the diet. It also requires more planning. You see
with more choices comes more responsibility for making good ones.

One good choice I am making this week is to participate in the
K8-8K on Saturday. I am going to try pushing in a little jogging
this week. I jogged a little yesterday and it really felt good.
The pace felt good, the breathing felt right, and I wasn't as
sore today. I have been doing at least two workouts per day -
either a workout video and curves or curves and walk/running.
Some days I have actually done all three. I have found that I
MUST keep the PA way up to loose well.

I haven't checked Brad's blog yet to see if I am behind on our
challenge, but I suspect I am - anyway I am not out and I would
only need to loose 27.4 more to win. So where are the Losing
Debbie Cheerleaders - Let's hear your best cheers!!!

Long time No Blog - Sorry

2008-04-03T10:59:00.002-05:00

Boy, life can get busy. I have neglected the blogging
for a while - Sorry. Well, here is what has been going
on. The week I didn't blog I lost 1 pound. This week
I found it. I always enjoyed yo-yo's as a child, but
this yo-yo weight thing is about to drive me nuts. People
keep telling me, "But you have to look at how far you
have come..." and I know that is so true, but it is hard
to push on when the body just doesn't seem to be cooperating
as well as it used to. However, I will keep on!

Brad has issued me yet another challenge. He says "double
or nothing" - But what he is proposing is not exactly that.
He proposes - No CD for me at this time, but we start this
week and the next person to loose 30 more pounds gets a prize.
He says he will get me a Barnes and Noble gift card if I win
and I should get him an itunes gift card if he wins. Sounds
like a pretty good deal - Brad, you are on! It is now
official. I have accepted the "double or nothing" challenge.
I weighed in last night - and as a true woman will not tell
here what I weigh, but I will write the number down and give
it to a mutual friend. Brad should be going to his weigh in
tomorrow I think and he can record his number and we will start.
Cheerleading is encouraged on this blog!

I am going to run/walk a 5K this weekend and have registered for
2 more this month. To be more accurate, I will probably walk this
weekend and begin the run/walking in the next one. The weather
here has been so bad, I have not been consistent with the training
and don't want to hurt myself this weekend, so walking is probably
best. Plus I have a wonderful friend who is also walking this
weekend, so we will have a chance to do that together.

Well, please keep me in your prayers for safe, but quick weightloss
and effective exercising. Thank you all for the support you continue
to give me. It is GREAT!

Down 2 more

2008-03-19T15:16:00.002-05:00

Last week I stayed the same, but this
week I lost another 2 pounds. I have
really been trying hard to burn a few
extra calories here and there, so maybe
it is beginning to pay off. I have taken
up jogging when the weather is nice, I am
still working out at Curves everyday, and
on mornings when it is cold or wet out I
Walk Away the Pounds with the DVD. I went
to the Doc. for a 3 month check up - blood
work up- to make sure all my levels are in
check with the diet and exercise, and I am
happy to report all is well.
I am on spring break this week, but with
the weather here the last couple of days, I
am having a hard time telling it is spring.
The days off have been wonderful, however.
I have had furniture delivered for the spare
bedroom, painted my room, seen a couple of
doctors, been shopping, and had my taxes done
and it is only Wednesday! I know a number of
people who say they don't retire because they
think they would get bored - I would like to
try it - so far I have been busier on spring
break than on a regular week. Oh well, about
20 more years and I can try retirement :)
Friday will mark the first official day of
Spring - I hope it is warm and sunny where
you are! Happy Easter!!!

I Lost, So I WIN!!!

2008-03-06T19:44:00.002-06:00

I lost 2.4 pounds this week, and that
puts me 0.1 over the 30 pounds that
Brad and I had wagered for back in ...
October. Wow, it takes a long time
to loose 30 pounds. I guess now I need
to take a trip to the music store to
pick out a new CD.
I sure hope this week marks the beginning
of my second year of downward success. I
do not want to spend any more time on the
plateau. Today I am 56.4 pounds away from
my goal weight.
The HMR program nurse asked me last week
if she could contact a photographer to
take a couple of pictures to use on their
website. I told her if the website was
going to help others realize and achieve
their own weightloss goals, sure. So, I
am supposed to hear from their photographer
any day now and the website should be up
by April. I will let you know if you want
to see the pics.
Thanks for all the wonderful words of
encouragement - here and in person. The
last few weeks have really been challenging
and frustrating, but you all have really
come through for me pointing out the success
I have had and helping me to see the things
that I can do today that one year ago I could
not imagine - Like hop on one foot longer than
Isaac, or actually workout twice in one day.
Keep reminding me - especially if the going
gets rough again. THANKS

1 Year - 108 Pounds

2008-02-29T19:13:00.002-06:00

Yes, it is hard to believe, but I have been doing
the HMR program for one year now. That also means
I have been writing to you all for a year now and
you are still reading - AMAZING!
Over the last year I have seen so many changes in
myself. My body, of course, being the biggest change.
But, also my determination and diligence. I am not
sure I have ever stuck with anything for a year before.
At least not anything good for me. I have about 60
more pounds I would like to loose before I stop with
the weightloss part of the program. But,my biggest
fear has become a reality I think. The weightloss has
slowed down to almost nothing over the last few weeks.
I have started exercising twice a day now to see if
a little extra calorie burn might jolt me back in to
loosing. I am also eating about 4 oz. of lean protein
per day and I am drinking more water. Maybe I will
get off this plateau soon.
Thank you for your support over the past year and please
don't stop now. I need you now more than ever because
this can get discouraging when the body doesn't cooperate.

Down a little

2008-02-21T18:17:00.003-06:00

I lost just a little this week - 0.6
I am thankful for a loss with the craziness
that this week has seen. I think next week
will be better. I don't really have anything
new to report.
Up coming events - I will be working out for
St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital on
the 29th. Curves is hosting a St. Jude's day,
so I signed up to workout for donations.
Next Wednesday will mark the one year of HMR
for me. I will be happy to report the big
one year total and hopefully with next weeks
loss I will have lost the 30 pounds necessary
for Brad to pay up on our wager. Until then...
Thanks for your support and comments.

Maintenance

2008-02-15T18:02:00.003-06:00

Maintenance - What a funny word. I have been
moved to "maintenance" so I can continue to
loose. I had hit a brick wall with the weight
loss over the last month, so in order to
jump start me they suggested I move to maintenance.
Now, don't get the wrong idea, I am not doing
full maintenance right now. They just had to
put me some where so we could play with me
meal replacement numbers and not get in trouble
with the HMR program people. It seem that if
you are in maintenance you don't have "minimums"
you have to reach each week, so you can mix it
up a bit. It worked - I lost 3.7 pounds in my
first week of maintenance. I am now eating
only one entree per day, but having five shakes,
at least 6 bottles of water, and at least five
veggies and fruits. I hope week two will go
as well because if it does I will have won the
wager Brad and I started back in October to see
who could loose 30 pounds first. I only need to
loose 2.4 more and I win!!! My prize will be
a music CD of my choice and I am open to suggestions.
Anyone bought anything really good lately? I
enjoy most kinds of music. Well, until next week -
Thanks for sticking with me.

Bad Week

2008-02-07T19:18:00.000-06:00

Well, I guess you had to figure it was coming sooner
or later...but I would have chose later. I had
a little gain this week 0.8 I know, not even a whole
pound. My counselor is thinking my body may be
adjusted to the "routine" of the diet and I am going
to have to shake it up a bit. She and the nurse
will be helping me see if I can reboost my momentium.
So, I will once again ask for prayers that the weight
start coming off again. I will let you know in the
weeks to come how the changes are working out.

-2.8 pounds this week

2008-01-31T15:15:00.000-06:00

WOO HOO!!! Finally a good week. This
week also marked the 7th week in a
row I have lost weight. I want to
keep that up for several more weeks.
So, with this weeks loss, I have lost
24.7 pounds of the 30 that Brad and I
have been battling to see who could
loose first. I only need to loose
5.3 more to win!!! For those of
you interested in the grand total to
date...104.9. Wow, writing that
down is amazing to me. I do still
want to loose about 60 more however.
I am so thankful for all the support
I get from those of you who read this
blog and from my many friends and
family members that cheer me on daily.
I am in better health now than I have
ever been in because I am eatting right
and exercising regularly. I feel better
now than I have in so long I can't
even remember. I have energy, I take
less medication, and I feel good.
Until next week - God bless you all.

Down a Little

2008-01-24T15:05:00.000-06:00

I lost 0.7 this week bringing my total
weight loss to date to 102.1 pounds. I
am hoping to pick up the pace this week
and actually loose over one pound. In
fact 2-4 pounds would be nice. I hope
you all enjoyed the picture posting. I'm
not sure how much you can tell in the
ones I chose. But for the record, I
was measured again at the weightloss center
and I have lost 17 1/2 inches around my
waist alone. Anyway, please keep me in
your prayers as I continue this journey.
Thanks!

Pictures

2008-01-21T12:21:00.000-06:00

Okay, okay, okay! So many of you have asked/suggested
that I post before and now pictures that I had to go
find some. You notice I did not say before and after
because I am not done yet. I had to look hard for the
before picture, as it seems I tried to stay out of
pictures. Anyway...here they are.

Another slow week

2008-01-17T18:57:00.000-06:00

I lost 0.6 pounds this week. This brings my
over all total to 101.4 pounds. I would like
to pick up the pace again and loose over 1
pound per week. I actually need to do that
because the program I am on has a 4 week
weight loss minimum and I need to pick up
the pace to stay on target.

On a brighter note, I only need to loose 8.8
more pounds to win the contest between Brad
and myself. Brad, however, turned in some
impressive weight loss numbers last week.
Check him out at http://www.fitshump.blogspot.com

If anyone has any suggestions for getting over
the hump and boosting the weight loss please
share. Thanks for all your support.

1/2 Pound this week

2008-01-10T11:20:00.000-06:00

I only lost a 1/2 pound this week, but the bright
side of this story is this is the 4th week in a row
that I have shown a weight loss. It has been a
while since I have lost 4 weeks in a row. Maybe
I am getting on a roll. I don't really have any big
news this week...Like I could top last week. So,
I will make this short and sweet by asking for your
continued prayer and support. Thanks!

2008-01-04T12:03:00.001-06:00

I have officially lost my 100th pound! I am pretty

excited. I stayed "in the box" over the Christmas

holidays and continued with my exercise plan and

it worked. I traveled over the holidays and was

a little apprehensive about how the eatting and

workouts would go, but it all went just fine. I was

able to workout at the Curves in Pocahontas one

day and the Curves in Branson, MO two days. The

other days I either walked outside, or workout with

a DVD.

For all of you who are wondering about the little

wager between my friend Brad and myself, well

with the -1.3 this week I now only have 9.9 pounds

to go until Brad has to by me a CD. That is unless

he wins :( Hey Brad, how is it going?

For those of you who may not know Brad, he is the

inspiration for this new way of life I have decided to

adopt. Brad started a little over a year ago on the

same plan I am on now with phenomenal results. So,

I was talking to him about it one day and he said,

"Debbie, I know there are diabetic patients who are

doing this program. You should call them." Well, I

thought about that for a while, then I called. And the

rest, as they say... Now 10 months and 1 week later

I have lost 100 pounds. Thanks Brad for the inspiration

and all the encouragement.

99 !

2007-12-20T11:17:00.000-06:00

I went by the weightloss center this morning because
I knew I would be running late for class this afternoon
and I lost 2.8 pounds this week. That brings my over
all total to 99 pounds since Feb. 27th. Just one more
pound before New Years Day! I think I can, I think
I can, I think I can. That will be my motto for the
next week and a half.

I will not be blogging next week at all because I will
be out of town with family for the holidays. So, this
is my last official weightloss center weigh in for the
2007 calendar year. My next weigh in will be on
Thursday, January 3, 2008. I will try to remember
to let you know before New Years Day if I loose my
other pound.

2007 has been an awesome year for me and you all
have been a significate part of my journey. I will
never be able to express how much you support and
encouragement has meet to me. Please continue, as
I have about 65 more pounds I would like to loose in 2008.

Until then...Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Much Better Week !!!

2007-12-13T14:26:00.000-06:00

This was a much better week for weight loss. I weighed

in 3.7 pounds lighter than last week. I hope this is the

trend for several more weeks in a row. I now need to

loose 3.8 more before New Years to meet my 100 pound

goal. Only 14 more pounds to win the wager between

Brad and myself.

I sometime wish I could use Garfield's weigh in tactics,

but I can't, so I need your prayers and continued support

for about 65 more pounds. Then I will need your support

in a totally different way, but we will talk about that then.

Thanks for sticking with me.

Disappointing Week

2007-12-06T17:56:00.000-06:00

You guessed it, I gained this week. But, I know
I lost some inches, because I can tell in my
clothes. I gained 1.5 this week, and don't know
why. Oh well, I have been here before and I
know if I just keep on keeping on it will come
off.
For some more exciting news-- I finished my
first 5K last Saturday. My friends from house
church and I participated in the 5K - Marathon
for St. Jude in Memphis. Some of them ran it,
but for this first one I walked it with Polly and
Stephanie. We did really well I thought. We
finished in 51 minutes and 42 seconds. That
is one mile in just over 16 minutes. It was a lot
of fun and I would like to try to jog/run it next
year.
I am going to work really hard to get back on
the downward trend this week and would
appreciate your prayers and encouragement.
Thanks for all your support. It maybe starting
to get a little harder, so please stick with me.

- 3.5 over Thanksgiving!!!

2007-11-29T19:19:00.000-06:00

Well, I knew I had lost some, but I didn't know
how much until tonight. Over the Thanksgiving
holiday I lost 3.5 pounds. I was a little anxious
about the whole holiday thing for a couple of
reasons. First, it would put me out of my routine,
and for those of you who know me well, you know
I like routine. Second, I wasn't sure how I would
deal with the "food thing". That, however, turned
out much better than I could have ever imagined.
I was given a couple of out of this world recipes at
my weightloss class and I got one off the internet
when I googled HMR recipes (pumpkin pie) and
I made it just fine. In fact the rest of my family
like my recipes so well they ate them too - all
except the pie...they had there own and I didn't
feel a need to share. The third reason I was a
little anxious was that I would be away from
Curves for 4 whole days. COLD days! So, I took
my Walk Away the Pounds DVD's and walked
2-3 miles everyday inside where it was warm.
As it turned out everything went just fine.

For those of you who are faithful readers, you know
Brad and I are in the midst of a little contest to see
who can loose the next 30 pounds first. I am happy
to report... (can you hear the drum roll?) I am -13.8
toward the goal. Only 16.2 more pounds to go and
I earn a new CD of my choice. Anyone listening to
anything good? I haven't bought a new CD in a
while, so when I win this will be a treat. Brad keeps
saying he is going to come from behind and win (check
him out at http://www.fitshump.blogspot.com)
but I think he is just trying to shake me up a bit.
Although, he is running a marathon this weekend
while I am only doing the 5K. He may gain a little
momentum on me with the PA. I still think I
will win. Thanks for all your support. Keep the
comments and encouragement coming - I need
all I can get.

FINALLY!!!

2007-11-15T18:05:00.000-06:00

Yes, I lost this week. I am down 1.2 pounds from
last week. This brings my total so far to 90.3
pounds. I will be "doing" the diet for 9 months
on the 27th of November, so I am still averaging
10 pounds a month. Now the challenge will be to
see if I can at least 10 more off before New Years.
I am going to work really hard. I know I have some
problem solving to do during this time, because I
will be out of my routine a lot with various travels.
But, I have problem solved travel before, so I know
it can be done.
Update on the Brad/Debbie wager:
I have lost 10.3 toward the -30 pounds.
And Brad is making some lofty clams about
our wager on his blog. Check it out at:
fitshump.blogspot.com
Well, next week is Thanksgiving and I do find myself
more conscious of my blessings this time of year. The
biggest blessing this year so far I think has been this
weightloss program. I can't even remember exactly
how I felt this time last year, but I know I feel better
now. I have so much more energy, I am taking so
much less medication, and I sleep better. Someone
ask me the other day if I had ever gone to the store
and pick up dog food bags to equal the amount I
have lost. I can't even imagine being able to lift and
carry 1/2 that much.
Speaking of next week and Thanksgiving, I will not
be posting. I will be with family and friend. So,
my next post will be on November 29th. I pray that
each of you have a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
Travel safely, enjoy the food, and love the people.

Pete and Repeat...

2007-11-08T19:01:00.000-06:00

Have you ever heard the story of
Pete and Repeat? Well, it goes like
this - Pete and Repeat were sitting
on a bridge. Pete fell off, who was
left? Repeat - Pete and Repeat were
sitting on a bridge. Pete fell off,
who was left? Repeat. And so on.
I never liked that little story and
now that it has shown up in my weight
loss efforts I like it even less. For
the second week in a row I gained 0.7
pounds. Now, I was okay with it last
week as a "rebound" from being so sick.
But, I'm now so okay with it this week.
I could tell all week by my scales that
this was not looking like a good week,
but I can't figure out why. I have
thought and thought and can't identify
anything that I have done differently.
So, I have decided to stop trying to
figure it out and count my blessings.

1. A Loving family
2. An Awesome group of friends-
if you are reading this, it
means you ;)
3. A God who loves me
4. A nice home
5. A good career - That I like
6. A Toyota - That I like
7. Nascar for a couple more weeks
8. Better health than I had 9 months ago!

Okay, now that I have regained some
perspective - Next week will be better.
And speaking of better health- let me
update you on the latest from the DR.
I have lowered my cholesterol so much
that he has removed me from all Lipitor.
I was taking a low dose, but the Dr.
doesn't feel that even a low dose is
necessary anymore.
I had to clean out my closet again last
weekend of all the stuff that was too
big. I bought a couple of new items
and have actually started wearing some
of the cloths that my friend had given
me that I thought I might not be into
before Christmas.
Please keep praying for my continued
weightloss. I am more than half way
to my goal, but I know the second half
will be more challenging than the first.

A small set back

2007-11-01T18:43:00.000-05:00

Well, I "rebounded" from sickness this week with
a 0.7 gain. I tried so hard just to maintain and
not gain, but it didn't happen. The people at
the weightloss center seemed pleased that it
wasn'ta larger gain. Anyway, I think I am over
being sick, so onward and downward with the
weightloss.

For those of you who have been reading for a while,
I need to loose 6.6 pounds between now and Nov. 20th
to hit the goal I set back in Sept. I think I can do
that.

For those keeping up with the FRIENDLY wager between
Brad and myself - I think I am still in the lead with
9.8 pound lost toward the goal of 30. I will have to
check Brad's blog (www.fitshump.blogspot.com) to be sure.

I am now needing to put walking back into my schedule
at least 2-3 times per week if I am going to be ready
to walk the St. Jude's 5K on December 1st. I am very
excited that my house church group has decided to do
this event as a group activity. Some will run/jog the
5K and some will walk it. Brad, however, will be running
the marathon. Keep all of us and our training in your
prayers please. If any of you are headed out walking this
weekend give me a call. Thanks for all your support and
Have a GREAT weekend.

Now wait a minute...

2007-10-25T19:16:00.000-05:00

Remember last week I didn't loose well because
I had been sick. Well, I was sick again this week
and still managed to loose 7 pounds. Yes, 7 pounds.
My weightloss counselor says not to be surprised
if next week I gain a little of that back. She thinks
I have become a little dehydrated. I don't get the
human body, but oh well at least for one week I can
say I lost 7 pounds :)

So for those of you keeping up, I have now lost 10.5
on the way to 30 to beat Brad in our little wager.
Brad - I hear Toby Keith is coming out with a new
Christmas CD.... hmmmm. OR maybe something in
the Christian Music category....I don't know.

For those of you interested in the total to date, that
would be 90.5 I hope next week doesn't prove to
be a huge let down with a big gain. I could cope with
a small loss, but a gain:( Please pray that my body
will get well, and continue to loose weight. I am feeling
better right now - just a lingering cough. The meds
the doctor gave me for the cough, however, are evil.
That is the reason I was sick this week. Apparently
cough medicine with codeine make me sick to my
stomach - Yuck! So, I have switched to an over the
counter cough medicine that is working okay, just
slower.

Who knew...

2007-10-18T19:22:00.000-05:00

Who knew that you could be soooo sick and not
loose weight? Well, I know now. Last Friday
I woke up to the room spinning out of control,
which in turn made me all kinds of sick. So,
I called the doctor and he prescribed meds, and
my angel for the day (Carolyn)went to pick them
up for me. In the meanwhile, I called the weight loss
center, because I had already figured out I was
not going to be able to eat HMR food that day.
I wasn't at all sure I was going to be eating any
food that day, but they advised I "get out of
the box" until I got better. I know - OUT OF
THE BOX - and worse yet they suggested sprite
zero and saltine crackers to nibble on to help
settle my stomach. Now, I don't know if I have
ever told you all, but from about week 3 of this
weight loss program I have craved saltine crackers.
So, long story short, I had about 15 - 20 saltine
crackers on Friday and was right back in the
box on Saturday. By Sunday morning my scale
showed I had gained 4.5 pounds - Now explain that
to me! Anyway I managed to get that off and 0.2
more. I am glad I didn't show up with a gain tonight
I would really be upset then. For those of you
keeping up with my little wager with Brad, I am
3.5 pounds closer to that goal. Only 26.5 more
and Brad gets to buy me the CD of my choice.
Next week will surely be better.

-3.3 This week

2007-10-11T18:44:00.000-05:00

Wow was I glad to see a good weight loss
this week. After a couple of slow weeks
I was beginning to wonder if I was doing
something wrong.
Another reason I was glad to see a good
loss is that I have entered into a friendly
little wager with my friend Brad, who help
me begin my weight loss journey. Our
challenge is to see which of us can loose
the next 30 pounds the quickest. We agreed
to this on Tuesday night, but Brad,
being the competitive soul that he is, has
agreed to allow me to count this weeks
loss toward my 30. So, with that being said,
I now only have 26.7 to go. You know you can
track my progress here - You can check out
Brad's progress (and read about his marathon
training) at fitshump.blogspot.com
Words of encouragement and cheerleading -
welcome :)

8 Months and 80 Pounds

2007-10-04T18:44:00.000-05:00

It is official. I have been on the HMR program
for 32 weeks and I have lost 80 pounds.

Things I have learned about weight loss in the
last 8 Months:
1. Eating Healthy taste good too.
2. Exercise is not evil.
3. The meal I am eating right now is
not my last.
4. Caffeine is EVIL.
5. Plain water taste good.
6. People may look at you funny when
you bring your own food into a
restaurant, but when they find out
what you are doing, they are supportive.

Things I have learned about myself in the last
8 months:
1. I like broccoli if it is steamed.
2. I have the biggest support team in the
world, and I thank God daily for you.
3. I will problem solve weight the rest
of my life. Skinny people do it too.
4. I am worth it. Every bit of it.
5. I like exercising. (Most of the time)
6. I can!

-1 This week

2007-09-27T18:44:00.000-05:00

Well, compared to last week, this week was a bit of a let down.
However, I can hear my friend Brad's voice in my head saying,
"Down is down and headed in the right direction." And he is right!
I had been having trouble getting my heart rate up at the gym
this week, but I put some extra effort into it tonight and hit my
target heart rate pretty early in the workout. I hope to be able
to continue getting the heart rate up, because I know that is what
is helping me burn the fat and loose the weight.
Today is my 7 month HMR anniversary. I started the HMR
program on Feb. 27th and to date I have lost 79.1 pounds. I
still have a lot to loose, but I know with this program and the
great support team (you all) I have in place I can keep going
until I reach my goal. Thanks y'all!

Down another 4.3 pounds

2007-09-20T18:32:00.000-05:00

Wow, I am glad last week was only a minor set back. I
didn't have any soda this week, and look at the difference.

I had a break through moment this week that I want
to share with you. Usually or before (the later I hope)
when I am stressed I physically feel hungry and want
to eat. Well, on Tuesday I had a STRESS filled day, but
I never felt hungry. The thought that kept coming into
mind was "just make it until 4:30 and you can go workout."
Now that is a super change for me. I don't know, but
maybe I am starting to "get" this exercise thing. I am
still going to Curves 6 times a week and love it. I never
in my life thought those words would ever be coming
out of my mouth.

I was also blessed this week when a friend, who
has also been losing weight, offered me some of her
gently worn clothes that were now too big for her. This
trying to stay clothed while loosing weight so quickly is
a challenge. I will need to loose a little bit more before
I can comfortably wear my "new" clothes, but when
I can my budget will get a much needed break :)

Well, that is all for this week. Thanks for putting up
with my chatter each week.

It dropped !

2007-09-13T18:34:00.000-05:00

Last week I said I was "waiting for the other shoe to drop".
It did. This week I was up 1 pound :( I did have more diet soda this
week than usual, so I am wondering about sodium amounts and water
retention. Anyway, NO SODA this week and we will see what happens.

I just realized when I logged on that I had promised to post my Curves
results and I didn't. Sorry. But, at least that will give me something
good to report tonight. So, drum roll please.........

In one month at Curves I -
lost 12.6 pounds
lost 13.25 inches
lost 10.6 pounds of body fat
Now that is something I can smile about :) And I will get back on track
with the weight loss.
Please pray that this week goes much better. Thanks.

-4 Pounds This Week

2007-09-06T18:41:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it myself. I am waiting for "the
other shoe to drop". I can't believe I have had
so many good weeks in a row. I certainly hope
it continues for several reasons.

1. it feels good.
2. I will get to my goal quicker.
3. I set a short term goal tonight that may stretch
me if I slow down at all.

Tonight in class we were asked to write down a
goal weight that we will work toward achieving
by Nov. 20th. The weight I wrote down is
21.6 pounds down from where I am tonight.
If I can reach this goal it will put me right on
track to my New Year's eve goal. Some of you have
heard me say I want to have lost 100 - 110 pounds
by New Year's eve.
I am at -74.8 pounds today and if I can accomplish
the short goal I will be at -95 by Thanksgiving. I
would have to work hard, but I could then be
between 100 and 110 pounds down by New
Year's eve.
I also must admit I think I maybe becoming a
Curves addict. I had to miss my Curves workout
for 4 days in a row over the holiday weekend, and
the first two day back to work this week were
horrible. I worked out Wed. afternoon and today
was a really good day. I just came in from working
out tonight, so I am looking forward to a super
Friday.
On Saturday morning when I go to work out I get
to do the 1 month weigh and measure thing. I can't
wait. I stepped on the scale at curves tonight and
I know I have lost at least 10 pounds by their scale
in a month. I am anxious to find out how many inches
too. I will try to remember to post Saturday or Sunday
to let you all know.
I also earned my first Curves t-shirt last week and
received it tonight. I brought a friend from work
and after a couple of trial sessions she decided to
join. That earned me a T-shirt :)
Thanks to all of you who continue to check up on
me, encourage me, and help me along the way.
It means more than words can express.

6 Months and 70.8 Pounds

2007-08-30T18:58:00.000-05:00

I began this journey on February 27th and now,
only 6 months later, I am 70.8 pounds lighter.
I still have a lot more I want to loose, but
I am pleased with my progress so far. I have
learned so much about myself, my old habits,
and so many new healthy habits that I know
I can get the rest of the weight off.
I can actually say (now that I workout at
Curves) I enjoy exercise. At least I enjoy
going to the gym to workout. I am still
learning to like working out at home. And
I have to do it more this weekend because
the gym is closed Saturday and Monday for
the holiday :( But, I will survive and maybe
find something I enjoy doing away from the
gym for physical activity. I have lost track of
where I am for my labor day goal, but I will
look it up and see how the weigh in goes next
week. Thanks for all your support.

Down 3 Pounds!!!

2007-08-23T18:54:00.000-05:00

I have now lost 67.9 pounds. I will have
been on the program for 6 months next
Monday (27th) and I can honestly say
it has been one of the best 6 months of
my life. I have seen so many positive
changes - weight loss (of course),
reduction of medications, more energy,
more flexibility, some new clothes, and
the list could go on and on. But most
importantly, much better health and
self image. To all of you who support
me every week - on or off the blog -
THANK YOU! I wouldn't have made
it this far without you.
On a physical activity note - I am loving
Curves. I have been going 5-6 times per
week and I can't wait until Sept. 8th
when they will measure me again. I know
I have lost some more inches and I can't
wait to find out how much. I will let you
know. OH - the dinner bell (microwave)
is ringing, so will say good-bye for now.

I HATE Change...

2007-08-20T11:00:00.000-05:00

... but sometimes it is necessary and now is one of those times. I am having to change
days for my weight loss class due to class conflicts on Monday. I will now be weighing
in and posting on Thursday nights. My weight loss class will be from 4:30 - 5:30 and
then I may go to Curves, but I should be posted by 7:30 or 8:00 Thursday night.
Thanks everyone for hanging with me on this journey.
See you Thursday
Deb

Down -1.4 this week

2007-08-13T18:28:00.000-05:00

They say, "Slow and steady wins the race", well I guess
by the time I reach my goal weight I might be the
expert of slow and steady. However, down is down
and not up, so there is a silver lining.
News-- I joined a gym last Wednesday. A friend of mine
took me with her to visit Curves and I signed up. I
actually got in three workouts last week, and worked
out this morning at 5:30. They recommend 3 days a
week, but I know people who are going everyday. I
will go as often as I can - NOT always at 5:30a.m
however. I really like their hours though. They are
open 6 days a week, at 5:30 a.m. on the weekdays,
open until 8 p.m., and until noon on Saturdays. I
shouldn't have any trouble getting in at least 4 work
outs per week. The days I can't make it to the gym,
I will continue to "walk away the pounds" at home.
I am also hoping that when school starts back and
the weather cools a bit, some of my old walking
buddies will want to get together again and put
in a few laps. I really feel that in order for me to
regain momentum with my weight loss exercise
will be the key. Thanks for all your support!

-2.1 This Week

2007-08-06T19:48:00.000-05:00

I am down another 2.1 pounds this week. That makes
a total of 63.5 pounds. In order to meet my goal
by Labor Day I need to loose 8 more pounds.
I change up some of my physical activity this week.
I didn't feel like I was really getting my heart
rate up on my neighborhood walks, so I started
doing a walking DVD at home. I am using "Walk
away the Pounds". I now do a two mile walk, with
a little bit of resistance work on the arms, in
30 minutes. That increased my intensity from a
3 mile per hour walk to a 4 mile per hour walk.
I can tell for sure now that my heart rate is
getting high enough to be considered aerobic. This
has been a good week to make the change considering
the temperature outside has been so hot. Well, the
microwave dinged a couple of minutes ago, signalling
my dinner is done, so I will say good bye for now.
See you next week.

FINALLY!!! I have lost over 60 pounds

2007-07-30T19:31:00.000-05:00

I lost 1.9 this week to bring my total to 61.4 pounds.
Looking at my short term goals, I need to loose 10.1
more by Labor Day. I would like to have lost 100-110
by New Years Eve - This is my new long term goal.
I am looking at the possibility of having to change
classes in a few weeks because of a schedule change with
the fall class I teach for Harding. The class I am
teaching this year is schedule to meet from 4:30 - 7:00
on Monday nights. I am going to see if the other
instructor and I might be able to switch times (if all
the students are the same for both classes) and then
I could stay in my class. Otherwise I will have to
switch to a Thursday afternoon weight loss class. I
will let you know what happens.

-3 pounds this week

2007-07-23T19:28:00.000-05:00

I am happier this week with a good weightloss.
I guess WATER does make a difference. I am
now only 1/2 pound shy of 60 pounds. There
is a guy from my class that announced tonight
he went over 80 - Man I can't wait to get there.
I can't believe the changes I have felt in the
past 21 weeks. I have more energy, lower
blood pressure, and my blood sugar levels are
sooo much better than they used to be. There are
6 weeks until Labor Day - My personal goal is to
have lost another 12 pounds by then. I will
let you know how I progress.

Back to PURE Water

2007-07-16T19:31:00.000-05:00

Last week I changed something in my routine.
I drank decaf. tea instead of water. I had
asked and they said, "as long as it is decaf.
it can replace water." Well, it didn't work!
Not only did I not loose, I gained .9 (nine
tenths)of a pound. I am switching back to
pure water. The tea is the only thing that
changed, so I have to think it had something
to do with my results. I guess we will see
next week if water is better than tea.
Until then...

-3.7 This Week

2007-07-09T17:55:00.000-05:00

Vacation wasn't so bad. We had a good time
digging for diamonds even though we didn't
find anything, and I had a great weight loss.
I was able to take everything I needed with
me (or stop and get it on the way)and stay
"in the box" the whole time. We were able
to cook in the room and enjoyed our meals
together, then go out and "play" for
exercise. Sean and I took a walk each night
after supper and one night we all went swimming
for about an hour. I have decided as long as
I can heat my entree, everything else is not
so hard. I have found the "steamers" veggies
at Wal-Mart that cook in the microwave and
right now there are sooooo many fresh fruits
to choose from.
My weight loss total to date is 57.4 pounds in
19 weeks. Until next week...

-2 This week

2007-07-02T13:25:00.000-05:00

Several HMR classes will be meeting this afternoon and tonight
because of the Holiday midweek. So, I decided to get my weigh
in and food purchasing done early and not get tangled in the
traffic this afternoon. I was happy to see that I have dropped
another 2 pounds this week - bringing my total to 53.9 so far.
As soon as my class is over tonight I will be leaving on vacation.
I will spend a couple of days with the folks helping in the
garden. Then Sean, Kerry and I will leave Thursday for Murfreesboro
to dig up big diamonds (I hope). I figure it like this - eight
year old boy, dirt, shovels, and a water park next door - it won't
be boring even if we don't find a diamond. I just keep hoping
HMR and vacation mix well. I was able to get a motel room with
a kitchenette so I can fix what I need to eat. And from the looks
of the town on the Internet, the restaurant selection may lack a
little to be desired. Sean has decided, just in case, he will
pack some mac and cheese and ramon noodles. The kid could live
for months on those two staples. I will be anxious to get back
to see how the weighloss has gone and I will let you all know
then. Have a GREAT 4th of July!!!

-1.1 This week

2007-06-25T19:39:00.000-05:00

I lost another pound bringing my total weight loss to date to -51.9.
I went shopping Saturday, and I bought some clothes that fit. I
didn't realize how loose and uncomfortable my old clothes were
until I slipped into some that fit me. Everything seems to be
going okay right now. I am getting in my PA calorie burn each
week. I did commit to at least 10 minutes of evening exercise
daily in addition to what I am already doing in the mornings. That
should help my PA numbers increase over the next few weeks.
I am going to the Craftman's Truck Race Saturday which poses
a new challenge for me. I will have to come up with a strategy to
get in my meal replacements and fruits/veggies while at the
event. We shouldn't leave home until about 1:00, so afternoon and
dinner are the only concerns. I have a couple of ideas, but I will
let you know next week how it goes. Until then... :)

OVER 50!!!

2007-06-18T19:18:00.001-05:00

I lost 3 pounds this week bringing my total to 50.8 pounds
in 16 weeks. I am enjoying the fruits and veggies of summer
and still loosing the weight. This is GREAT!

I have had a lot of you tell me you are reading my blog, and
I want to say thank you for letting me know. Many of you
are not making commits, so unless you say something to
me I don't know. Just knowing people are reading helps
me with my accountability and is so encouraging. Thanks.

I am taking some time off from work in a couple of weeks
and have been debating a mini trip. I keep hearing other
peoples stories about vacation, and how things didn't
go well..."vacation" scares me a little. I will let you know
what I decide and the results.

Thanks again for supporting and encouraging me on this
journey.

-2.2 This Week

2007-06-11T19:45:00.000-05:00

I have lost 47.6 pounds in 15 weeks. I hope
to go over the 50 pound mark next week. I am
still enjoying the fruits and vegetables that were
added to my routine. They have made sticking
with it so much easier.
I have been getting up early and going for a walk
before work now that the evenings are getting
hotter. I plan to carve some time for the bike
into the evenings now, but haven't been consistent
with that yet. I have not yet got to a point where I
would say I enjoy the exercise, but I don't dread
it like I used to. I hope to learn to enjoy it before
too much longer, so I can start building good habits.
I know in order to have long term success I will have
to develop some really good habits and strategies
that will help me the rest of my life.
Thanks to all of you for the encouragement. This
is not an easy rode, but to know I am not on it alone
is comforting.

Fruits and Veggies Taste Good, AND...

2007-06-04T20:14:00.000-05:00

they help you loose weight. I am down 3.1 pounds this week, so
last week must have been an adjustment week. I am soooooo
excited. It would have been hard to give up the fruit and
vegetables after having had some, so I am glad my weight
loss counselor was right and I just needed to adjust.
This week I have enjoyed baked potato, corn on the cob,
asparagus, green beans, squash, and stir fry vegetables.
Also, bananas, strawberries, pineapple, oranges, apples, and
a new grape recipe. For all of you who are moms, this is one
way to get the kiddos to eat their fruit. You take one cup of
grapes (I used green ones) and wash them. While they are
wet, put 1 teaspoon of jello (so far I like cherry best) in a
zip-lock bag and add the grapes. Shake well and put them
in the freezer for about 1 1/2 - 2 hours or until they are just
crunchy. Pop them in your mouth and enjoy - just like candy
only healthier. If you have any good "in the box" recipe ideas
please feel free to share. Until next week...

Fruits and Veggies taste good, but...

2007-05-29T17:59:00.000-05:00

my weight stayed exactly the same this week. I was
told not to be too concerned, that with the transition
my body had some extra adjusting to do. We will see.
I have enjoyed the variety that f/v have added to my
meals. I had forgotten how good green beans taste.
Hopefully next week will be a better week for weight
loss. I will let you know.

The Official 12 Week Total Is...

2007-05-21T20:49:00.000-05:00

Drum roll please - 42.3 pounds! That is right, I have
lost 42.3 pounds in the last 12 weeks. I have a long
way to go, but I am off to a good start.

I am an official Healthy Solutions girl now, and to
celebrate I went out with some friends and had
a baked potato and small salad for supper. It
taste so good. After supper I went to Kroger
and bought fruits and vegetables for the rest of
the week.

Last week I didn't get in as much exercise as I would
have liked, so this week I plan to bump it up a little.
I am going to try to make sure I walk and ride the
bike everyday this week. Last week there were
days when I only did one or the other.

Thanks friends for being so supportive. You all
have been such a blessing to me and I know I
can count on your continued support in the weeks
and months to come. See you soon.

-4.9 This Week

2007-05-14T18:28:00.001-05:00

Wow, even I am amazed with this weeks loss. I thought I had done okay,
but I never dreamed I would loose 4.9 pounds. This officially brings me
over the 40 pound marker and I have one more week in "core". I am
going to bump up the physical activity this week by riding the bike in the
morning and walking in the afternoons to try for another good weight
loss to end my core program. After next Monday night I will be transitioning
to healthy solutions and adding fruits and veggies to the shakes and entrees.
I am sooooooo excited. I have been "planning" menus in my head that
include vegetables and/or fruit at every meal. Anyway, I will let you know
how that goes later. I am off now to walk with a friend and burn more calories.

-3.4 This Week

2007-05-07T18:22:00.000-05:00

This brings my total weightloss in 10 weeks to 36.4 pounds.
Tonight our leader told us that our class has hit the "gold"
standard for physical activity (PA) calories burned in a week
for two weeks straight. She said that is a first for a Jonesboro
HMR class. Last week I burned 3700 calories - my largest
burn in a week so far.
For anyone wondering about the decision I have been trying to
make, I have decided to transition to Healthy Solutions when
my core class is over. I should be adding fruits and veggies
in about 3 weeks. Thank you to all who have prayed about
this decision for me and encouraged me as I struggled to make
the decision. I believe it is the right decision for the summer
anyway because it will allow me to add so much variety to
my program. If at any time Healthy Solutions is not going
as well as I want, I can switch back to Decision Free.
I still have a long way to go, but I am off to a really good start.
Please hang in with me and keep the encouragement coming.
I need all I can get. Thanks!!

-1.1 This week

2007-04-30T18:16:00.000-05:00

I guess 3 good weeks was too much to ask. I am back to the saw
tooth pattern. I have lost a total of 33 pounds in 9 weeks however
and I am excited about that. Our instructor told us tonight that
in 8 weeks our class has lost 410 pounds. That was an average
of just over 27 pounds each. I am higher than the class average
and I can be excited about that too.
I cleaned out my closets last weekend and found a couple of "new"
outfits. I also donated a lot of clothes I will never wear again to
charity. My closets have never been so organized.
I told you last week about making a decision to either stick with
what I am doing or transition to including fruits and veggies in
my diet. I have not made that decision yet (prayers and comments
welcome), but I have learned a lot of good information about the
benefits of adding them.
Thanks to all of you who continue to encourage me. This is not
an easy journey, but one that is well worth the effort.

-3.2 This Week

2007-04-23T17:58:00.000-05:00

Last week I told you all I was going to make an effort to break the
"saw tooth" weight loss pattern I was in - Well I did it. Typically I
would have only lost between one and two pounds this week, but
with the extra effort I was able to loose 3.2. All the "experts" had
been saying every other week my body thought it was starving and
I wasn't loosing as much, so this week I practiced the"more is better"
rule everyday. I had one extra shake or entree each day and my
body responded. My total weight loss now is 31.9 pounds in 8 weeks.

The best thing that happened this week was I put on a shirt I bought
two weeks ago and didn't wear right away because I thought it was
just a little tighter than I liked - now it is almost too big. I wore it
anyway because it is so comfortable. I couldn't believe how much
difference there was in only two weeks.

I have 5 more weeks to go in the "core" program, so we have started
talking about what I should do next. I thought I would probably be
told I should keep doing exactly what I have been for thirteen more
weeks. However, the nurse showed me a chart tonight and explained
I could add fruits and veggies, eat my minimum meal replacements, and
still average about the same number of calories as I would practicing
more is better. I'm still not totally convinced, so this week I have
decided to chart everything I eat and count the calories, then compare
to the calories in a 3+2+5 day. That is three shakes, 2 entrees, and 5 fruits
or veggies. Right now that sounds like so much food I can't imagine.
Anyway I have a few weeks to think about it, so if you would put that on
your prayer list (that I make a good decision) I would appreciate it.
See you next week :)

-28.7 pounds in Just 7 Weeks!!!

2007-04-16T18:28:00.000-05:00

I am averaging 4.1 pounds per week so far. Not quite my goal,
but sometimes my goals are a little unrealistic. This week
I lost 4.4 pounds. I am just above the goals the program has
set for me, so I guess I am doing alright.
This past week was challenging with work stresses.
I told a friend in class tonight, it is a good thing I am single,
because if there had been any other food in the
house this past week I would have gone out of the box.
This week the challenge will be to see if I can break the every
other week small loss pattern I am in. I am going to make a conscious
effort to loose good again next week and see what happens.
Thanks for sticking with me. I have so many of you out
there encouraging me I know I am blessed.

-1.9 This week

2007-04-09T18:33:00.000-05:00

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ this is my weightloss pattern.
It is called the "saw tooth" pattern. They explained it tonight.
One week my body thinks I am starving it, so it hangs on to
everything. The next week it will decide it is not really starving,
so it will let weight go. The solution, just keep on keeping on and
look at the totals not just one week. So, when I do that - I have
lost 24.3 pound in just 6 weeks.
The most exciting thing that happened this past week was on
Tuesday I put on a pair of slacks and looked down to find most
of them hanging on my shoes. I remembered I had a pair just like
them (one size smaller) in the closet, so I got them out and they
fit perfectly. This was good news because I also had a second
pair in the smaller size (different color) I had never worn before.
So, the next day I tore the tags off the second pair and wore them.
It feels really good to be getting into things that have just been
teasing me in the closet.
Until next week - Thanks for the prayers and encouragement!!!

-4.4 This Week!!!

2007-04-02T18:13:00.000-05:00

This was a much better week for weighloss! I don't
really know what I did that much different, but I
sure have a better result this week. I did walk a
couple of times this week in addition to riding the
bike, so that helped I'm sure.
Last night I went to a BBQ for my lifegroup from
church and took my own HMR food. I enjoyed
BBQ Chicken with Rice and Beans while everyone
else ate hamburgers, hotdogs, baked beans,
potato salad, chips and dip, etc. The grilling
smelled really good, but when the meal was over
I was just as satisfied with my meal as I ever
remember being when I ate what everyone else
was eating. In fact, I think I felt better because
it was my tendency to over eat and feel stuffed
at events like this before.
Today I had a meeting with some co-workers
that lasted until about 11:30 and they all wanted
to go out for lunch, so I warmed my Turkey Chili
at the office and took it with us to the resturant.
When I had finished my lunch I felt full and I
didn't really miss anything they were having.
Tomorrow, for my strong start day, I have to
get in some exercise at work. I plan to take my
tennis shoes and walk around the circle a few times
at lunch.
Thanks for all your continued prayers and words
of encouragement. I always rush home after
the graduate class I teach on Monday nights to
see if anyone has commented yet, and you all
have never disappointed me. THANKS!!!

I have lost 18 pounds in 1 month

2007-03-26T18:19:00.000-05:00

I have been on the program now for 1 month and have lost 18 pounds.
I didn't have a great loss this week for some unknown reason, but
over all I am pleased with my progress.
Last week was Spring Break for me. I went out of town for a few days
and managed to "stay in the box" (The term for not cheating on the diet),
which I thought was good for me. While I was out of town I had to change
my PA up a little. The bike is too big to haul around, so I walked instead.
Walking was okay, but I am still enjoying the bike better. Although I have
decided to take a walk at least 2 times a week in addition to the bike. So,
Brooks if you are reading this I will be calling you later this week.
To everyone else reading this, THANKS for going on this journey with me.
I appreciate your prayers and encouragement more than you will ever know.

-5.6 this week

2007-03-19T18:30:00.000-05:00

I am feeling very good having just come home
from my weekly weightloss meeting where I
learned I have dropped another 5.6 pounds.
That is 16.4 pounds in just 3 weeks!!!
My over all health is continuing to improve
as well. Last week the Dr. reduced the amount
of insulin my pump automatically gives me
and my numbers remained in a very good
range. This week we are working with my
regular Dr. to reduce the amount of blood
pressure meds I am taking because I am
running a little low. I continue to ride the
bike for at least 30 minutes every morning
and get in more when I can. Last week I
tried walking on Tuesday, my strong start
day, and determined I like the bike better
for now.
I am very thankful to have found
something that is working so well for me.
Thanks again Brad for the inspiration!
I know it will take time, but the accountability
of this plan is exactly what I need. Thanks
to all who read my post and encourage me
with your comments.

-3.6 This week

2007-03-12T18:48:00.000-05:00

Okay, I will have to admit I was a little disappointed after last weeks
good start. However, they explained about water weight, retention,
etc. and I guess 3 pounds is still an okay amount.

I have increased my PA (physical activity) by 10 minutes a day
(I'm up to 30 now) and I have increased the resistance on the bike by
2 levels from where I started. I have to try 10 minutes of something
new (exercise) tomorrow for my "strong start day". I am thinking a
noon walk around the block, but I am open to other suggestions. I'll let
you know what I decide on later in the week. Thanks for your support,
prayers and words of encouragement.
Debbie

One Full Week

2007-03-07T08:20:00.000-06:00

It is official - I have been on the HMR program for one week.
In this week I have already see my overall health improving. I
have reduced my insulin intake by 1/3 and my blood sugar levels
are staying much closer to normal than ever before.

Last night was one of my first big challenges. In my house church
we have always used the first Tuesday night of each month to
have dinner together. I have always enjoyed this activity because
of the fellowship with my friends, but also for the delicious food
everyone brings. Well, last night was the first Tuesday night this
month and I wasn't sure how that would affect me. However, I have
a wonder inspiration, named Brad, who has been on this same program
since last November and Brad is in my housechurch group. I know
this program has great things in store for me because Monday I
received a call from Brad wanting to "plan our strategy" for Tuesday
night. WOW!!! was that a relief. Just knowing someone else was facing
the same challenges and was thinking ahead to build a strategy was
so encouraging. Brad I think you are my Hero!!! Anyway, Tuesday
night fellowship was GREAT. I took my HMR food and honestly enjoyed
eating and visiting with my wonderful friends. Thanks guys!

This morning I woke up early and was able to ride my bike for 30
minutes instead of just 20. The last 4-5 minutes were hard, but
I made it.
Thanks everyone for the comments and encouraging words.

-7.2 Pounds in the 1st Week

2007-03-05T20:20:00.000-06:00

For those of you who may not already know, I have started the HMR weight
loss management program last Wednesday (Feb. 28). This week has been
tough. I have felt hungery a lot, but I "stayed in the box" and it paid off. I
also added exercise to my daily routine. I have an exercise bike that I have
started riding at least 20 minutes a day. Some days I can get in more,
but I do 20 minutes everyday before I go to work, then if I can do more in
the evening I do.

Thanks to all of you who have called or checked in with me this week to
encourage me. I will continue to update each week for anyone interested
in my progress.

Test Post

2007-03-05T15:24:00.000-06:00

This is a test post, in the event of a real post I expect you to comment. This is just a test post, no further action needed.