Weight Loss, Journey of a lifetime!

Horoscopes and other mumbo jumbo!

2012-01-15T22:46:00.000-06:00

A lot of people don't believe in horoscopes. My Dad to name one (he's a Piscees, forgive him!) Anyway, I'm a firm believer in them. I think there's something to the time, place, alignment, yadda yadda of births. So, I am a strong Sagittarius and proud of it!

2011 was bad. When I read my horoscope originally, I blew it off, 'cus I was sure 2011 was going to be my year. The very first line for 2011 I read was "It's going to be a bad year Sagittarius..." While there were a few ups, in general, 2011 blew, it was right. So, you could imagine my excitement on New Years Eve reading my horoscope and it said "you should be out celebrating Sag, because 2012 is going to be a great year for you!"

YES! Finally, the stars are aligning!!

13 days into 2012, not only have 90% of my horoscopes been up (yeah, I check it everyday) but my yearly horoscope says nothing but great things! Prosperity in careers, friendships and family. In 13 days, I've more than doubled my jobs, I've been running father and faster, and feel awesome!! So, here's a little bit more about what I'm going to be experiencing this year:

I cannot wait to see what 2012 brings! Maybe you think it's mumbo jumbo, and that's all right. But we all need things that are going to help us get up in the morning, and this is mine. Knowing that right around the corner, all my hard work, all my determination, and all this crap I've been going through for almost 3 years, is going to have a purpose, and it feels awesome!

So, here is my final farewell to 2011, and a big hearty HELLO to 2012!!

Faith in the journey

2012-01-10T10:24:00.002-06:00

I'm sitting here, eating my egg white "pizza" and had two gentlemen knock on my door. They introduced themselves and said they wanted to share a few things from the bible and their faith with me. While, I'm a good Lutheran gal, I know my faith, and I know I don't go door to door. However, I thought, while we probably disagree on most everything, those men have a lot of guts going door to door sharing God's word.

Well, NATURALLY, in my thoughtful way, it got me thinking. I know people on all levels of faith, but which way is the way God would "approve" of.

Okay, stop right there. What I was taught, God is happy with who you are. Whether you go to church every Sunday, walk door to door, or even just think about Her/Him every once and a while. I would be the third option. I don't go to church that often (although I should 'cus the people there rock...gotta love those ELCAers!) I really don't pray. I doubt a lot of things in life and don't pretend it's going to be all right because God has a plan. Sometimes I want to say "F-U God for making life the way it is!!"

I see people on Facebook saying "God is great...blah blah blah!" Then they go and talk smack behind everybody's back. Think they're higher and so much better because for some reason, because they use God's name in a status update, S/He loves them more.

Then I turn to a great friend I met at Gorilla. She has had a much harder year than I ever have, or really anyone I know. Through all of it though, her faith has stayed strong. However, that's not why I look to her as a spiritual role model. She, a lot like my mom, walks the walk, rather than just talk the talk. It's SO easy to say "God has a plan" and go to church on Sunday, but then most people hop in their cars, drive home and ignore the words the rest of the week by acting selfish, greedy, petty and down right non--Christian (even if they "praise God" on Facebook. (P.S. God doesn't have a real facebook page, fyi))

However, my friend is amazing. I've never seen anyone put everyone else first, over her. She, in my opinion, has the right to be pissed off at God, saying, "Well, you screwed me over, so forget you!" But she doesn't. She helps EVERYONE. When I was struggling, she made me this amazing key chain and wrote a card that touched me deeper than any bible verse ever has. While I don't think she thought it was a lot, it STILL has gotten me through hard days.

I look at some of the emails she written to me about faith, and hard times, and it helps. THAT my friends, is what Jesus, God, Allah, Buddah, whomever keeps you in line, would want. She takes care of everyone! Her son is one of the luckiest boys!

So, while these gentlemen have guts going door to door, and good for some of my friends for supposedly re-finding their faith, my dear friend is what I strive for in my faith. To not just talk the talk, but really walk the walk. Love everybody, this is most certainly true!

Sidenote: One of the versus my friend shared with me when I was in an ultimate low has stuck with me through this journey, and WILL keep me going until I reach my goal and so far beyond:
"I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you."

New Years = The Best!

2011-12-27T11:33:00.002-06:00

Ya know what I love about this time of year? We get one week of "guilt free" fun! Aka, the week before New Years! When that clock hits midnight we all get a clean slate!!

Two days after Christmas I stepped on the scale, and oh crap! I gain 2.5 of the 5 I lost back! Talk about a bah humbug moment!! I watched every single bite I took, and probably annoyed the crap out of my family with all my diet demands! (P.S. Thank you to my family for putting up with it!) I worked hard, I dieted harder and I feel like failure!

Well, one week from today, I get a new slate!! How awesome! I, however, am starting one week early. Why not, eh? Why should we wait for our lives to begin. I read a stat that 75% of people make a new years resolution. 45% of those people fail within one week, and 40% of the remaining fail after one month. I'm not gonna be part of that stat again.

I WILL reach my goal in 2012. Why? Because I can. And I dare someone to tell me otherwise!

“Another fresh new year is here . . .
Another year to live!
To banish worry, doubt, and fear,
To love and laugh and give!

This bright new year is given me
To live each day with zest . . .
To daily grow and try to be
My highest and my best!

I have the opportunity
Once more to right some wrongs,
To pray for peace, to plant a tree,
And sing more joyful songs!”

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! May your 2012 be as awesome as mine is going to be!!

Today I'm Thankful for New Years Resolutions

2011-12-21T10:00:00.000-06:00

This morning I woke up and discovered I did not get paid. Four days before Christmas and my bank account said "$12.15" umm....crap.

Well, being me, I freaked out! I started listing all the bills that had yet to be paid to Colin, and he just calmly sat there. Then, in his OH so perfect timing, he informed me "Oh, I won't be getting paid my full G.I. Bill payment in January either, thanks to winter break." GAH! Seriously, he decided, at this very moment to tell me this!?!? To which I responded to him "Well what the hell?! WHY NOT?! How are we going to pay this? And how are we going to pay that?!?" And going on and on in my calm manner.

Well, after I realized (at least told him I realized) it was all going to be okay, I decided I needed to go for a run. I stepped foot outside, and while there is a lack of snow, there is certainly not a lack of cold. This is when I decided I was thankful for the treadmill in our basement.

While I was running, something my dad tells me on a regular basis was going through my head (and I really should take it to heart.) This circumstance is only temporary. It's only money, and you will get caught up on things. All married couples go through a rough patch, and we're getting ours out of the way early!

Ya know, this is what I get for following a dream. I could have (and was offered) several 9 to 5 jobs. I could be secure working behind a desk somewhere, invisible to the world. But I decided, that wasn't good enough. I decided, and with Colin's blessing, to go for something that is going to make a difference.

The new year is coming close. It's time for resolutions. Well, I got the weight loss and exercise thing under control.
(Totally useless fact: 40%-45% of adults make a resolution each year. 75% fail after the first week)

So, what am I going to resolve this year? What do I need to work on?! Well, I've decided, each day I need to find one thing I'm thankful for. Whether it's a hubby who's letting me follow my goal, parents who are pretty much giving their right arms to help us through, or friends who NEVER stop cheering for me. Each day, I will find something I'm thankful for. I've shared those repeatedly, so I will find new things! Whether it's small or large, every day!

May I suggest you do the same, it'll make your new year a much happier, and successful one!

Christmas Miracles

2011-12-18T00:06:00.002-06:00

I love Christmas, I always have. There is something about this season, no matter how old you get, you can feel like a kid again! There's something about the thought of waking up on December 25th, coming downstairs and seeing those gifts underneath the tree! SANTA CAME! Don't tell me you don't get butterflies remembering that feeling.

This year is different for some reason. Well, I can tell you why. There's no snow on the ground. People are being less than in the Christmas mood. They've been selfish, grumpy, uncaring, and there's SO much hate in the world right now. With the economy, we have no presents under the tree. I don't want anything, I want to be able to give them! I want to see the look on people's faces when they open the "perfect" gift!

Well, no money, no snow, no humanity towards others, the lights don't twinkle as much, all I have to say is merry freakin' Christmas to the world!

Driving to work today, looking at the bleak, brown world around me, day dreaming of a white Christmas, I remembered another reason I love Christmas. I love the idea of the Christmas miracle. Ya know, you turn on the Hallmark channel this time of year and the movies are full of them!! But then you realize, a miracle doesn't have to be the parting of a sea, it can be so much as getting a check from the government when you REALLY needed that extra lift (yeah, it happened!) It's meeting a friend of a friend who, you know, somehow, is going to help you make your goals come true (yeah, happened again!) Or, it's going to a dear friend's home for a party and having a person who means the WORLD, and beyond to you, walk in the front door. (Again, totally happened!)

Christmas miracles are the things we miss when we're yelling at the people at the mall 'cus they're going slow. We miss them when we're so consumed in our own lives, we forget that a hug in itself is a miraculous thing. Making someone smile, out of the time and effort you put into something, THAT is what Christmas is. It's the everyday things, that, for some reason, we skip over day in and day out. I guess you could say, life is the gift that keeps on giving.

Christmas miracles do happen. Not just on the Hallmark channel, but every time someone opens their hearts to fellow human beings. Love, in itself, is a Christmas miracle. As much as I hate "Jesus is the reason for the season" slogan, I do believe, that the point of CHRISTmas, is to renew our faith in what God wants from us. We can be someone else's Christmas miracle,

And besides, you never know, I could still get my white Christmas, I'm not giving up on mother nature quite yet.

Soldier's Night Before Christmas

2011-12-12T19:37:00.000-06:00

This time of year, it's so easy to get caught up in life. The diets of Christmas (or the breaking of them.) All the hustle and bustle of gift buying. While it's fun to unwrap all that pretty paper, we need to take time and remember why we are able to do what we do. Sometimes I get so caught up in diets and exercise, I forget WHY I'm doing it. I've realized this year, more than many, this may be my last year here for a while, but I want to serve. I'm not only wanting to sacrifice, I'm asking my whole family to do the same. However, a soldier is proud, a soldier is strong, even on Christmas! So, to not go on for too long, here is "The Soldier's Night Before Christmas." A story of a soldier on the day everyone should be with the people they love, but sacrifice a lot for us. (Below is the video, I highly recommend a listen with a tissue!)

Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,
In a one bedroom house made of plaster & stone.

I had come down the chimney, with presents to give
and to see just who in this home did live

As I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,
no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.
No stocking by the fire, just boots filled with sand.
On the wall hung pictures of a far distant land.

With medals and badges, awards of all kind,
a sobering thought soon came to my mind.
For this house was different, unlike any I'd seen.
This was the home of a U.S. Marine.

I'd heard stories about them, I had to see more,
so I walked down the hall and pushed open the door.
And there he lay sleeping, silent, alone,
Curled up on the floor in his one-bedroom home.

He seemed so gentle, his face so serene,
Not how I pictured a U.S. Marine.
Was this the hero, of whom I’d just read?
Curled up in his poncho, a floor for his bed?

His head was clean-shaven, his weathered face tan.
I soon understood, this was more than a man.
For I realized the families that I saw that night,
owed their lives to these men, who were willing to fight.

Soon around the Nation, the children would play,
And grown-ups would celebrate on a bright Christmas day.
They all enjoyed freedom, each month and all year,
because of Marines like this one lying here.

I couldn’t help wonder how many lay alone,
on a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home.
Just the very thought brought a tear to my eye.
I dropped to my knees and I started to cry.

He must have awoken, for I heard a rough voice,
"Santa, don't cry, this life is my choice
I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more.
My life is my God, my country, my Corps."

With that he rolled over, drifted off into sleep,
I couldn't control it, I continued to weep.

I watched him for hours, so silent and still.
I noticed he shivered from the cold night's chill.
So I took off my jacket, the one made of red,
and covered this Marine from his toes to his head.
Then I put on his T-shirt of scarlet and gold,
with an eagle, globe and anchor emblazoned so bold.
And although it barely fit me, I began to swell with pride,
and for one shining moment, I was Marine Corps deep inside.

I didn't want to leave him so quiet in the night,
this guardian of honor so willing to fight.
But half asleep he rolled over, and in a voice clean and pure,
said "Carry on, Santa, it's Christmas Day, all secure."
One look at my watch and I knew he was right,
Merry Christmas my friend, Semper Fi and goodnight.

What's it gonna take?

2011-11-20T20:33:00.001-06:00

It is SO frustrating, this whole "dieting" thing! I am so good, and stay good for about a week, then a wrench comes in and just throws the whole thing off whack! Everything I worked so hard for, gone in a mere day!

So I ask, what on Earth is it going to take to stay on track?! I know I've done so much so far, and you'd think it would be easy, but there is a bug in my brain. It's like a computer virus. You know it's there, SOMEWHERE, but you don't know where, or how it really got there, or what it's going to take to get rid of it! I wish there was a diet brain scan. You simply run the scan and it tells you what in your brain is stopping you and poof, they can wipe it clean!

Alas, there is nothing like that, and I'm gonna have to figure it out for myself, again. You'd think having someone around 24/7 would keep me more right here right now, but no. UGH! Does anyone have an answer?! Well, tomorrow starts a new day AGAIN. This week is Thanksgiving, and thus starts the Christmas season. They say magical things happen this time of year and maybe, just maybe, I'll have a small one of my own!

Is skinny really the thing?

2011-11-10T13:27:00.001-06:00

The other day I saw a friend I hadn't seen in a very long time. The first thing that came out of their mouth was "wow Cara, you're looking skinny!"

While, I'm not saying it's a terrible thing. I was flattered when they thought so. However, why did they say skinny instead of "fit?" What kind of society do we live in where it's more ideal to be skinny than fit? Should I be all squeely and giddy that I looked skinny?

It's almost as if the work I do, day in and day out, is not to be fit, and strong and be proud of these thunder thighs, rather, I'm doing the work to be skinny. I would love it if, as a society, we stopped complements based on our pant size. If being skinny was my goal, I'd be doing a lot less than what I'm doing now. I'd go and starve myself for a month, but that's not what I want, I want to be strong, healthy!

So, when you see me and if you want to give me a real complement, tell me I'm looking strong or healthy. Tell me I look good, or even hot!! Ask me for some recipes, or advice. But don't say "you're looking skinny," that just cheapens all the real work I've been doing!!

Skinny versus Healthy
Which do you want to be?

Which do you want to be?

To Hell, and not yet back.

2011-10-20T11:06:00.001-05:00

Have you ever wanted to know what Hell was like? Well, come with me, take a walk in my shoes for the last three weeks. Since I was so kindly rejected at MEPS, my life seems to have been going in a downward spiral, quickly. Day after day has there have been new hurdles that seem to be challenging me and wanting to trip me up. At this point, they are successful in doing so.

From loan denials because of Colin's FIRST deployment (in 2002), losing my job that I had for a whopping week 'cus they decided to move to Canada over night, to no employer returning my calls, to US Bank and USAA f-in me over TWICE in a month, Colin's car going to s**t, plus Tony hurting himself and needing stitches. And that my friends, is just the tip of the iceberg!! It's ya know, those little things that add up really quickly each and every day. It's that "oh I'm out of gas and need to drive downtown" time, or the "well, that person cut me off and almost ran me into a ditch" or the "I really need someone to talk to, but no one is there" moment. Best yet, because of our financial situation, Colin has decided to deploy again so we can start a whole new life together. If/when he gets accepted and his profile is clear, off to Afghanistan my soldier will go...again. (Oh yeah, and Spike spit up a hairball on my pants this morning within half n hour of when I woke up...)

I'm being put in situations I've never been in, and am struggling with it. I'm struggling every single day to figure out WHY God is putting me in the shoes s/he is. Is it because I did something to piss God off, or because when all this crap is done, I'm going to be one hell of a strong person? They say everything happens for a reason but I am really starting to doubt it.

So if someone would please fill me in as to what God's plan is, I would really appreciate it.

Quote the Raven...

2011-09-23T13:42:00.001-05:00

For the last two weeks there has been a raven crowing outside our house. Before I left for MEPS two days ago, I thought it was a bad omen. Not a constant crow, rather a heckle. A heckle as to say "Haha Cara, you suck, you're not going to make it!"

Well, as I found out yesterday, he was right (or so I thought). He was laughing at me. (Damn you crow!) However, my mom read me a few stories about the raven. How it was Edgar Allen Poe who brought this darn cloud over this once powerful bird. Here's some of the unknown stories about Ravens:

"Raven is an omen of change. Ravens live in the void and have no sense of time, therefore being able to see past, present and future simultaneously. They unite both the light and the dark, both the inner and the outer. Raven is the totem of the Great Spirit and must be held with utmost respect. They are representations of creation and spiritual strength.

Ravens are messengers, telling us about the creation and magic all around us, that is available to us just for the asking. Look for opportunities to bring into being the magic of life. The striking black colour of the crow represents the colour of creation. It is the womb out of which the new comes into existence. Black is the colour of the night, giving birth to the light of a new day.

As ravens are adaptable to all environments and will eat almost anything, they can survive in almost any situation. Ravens are surrounded by magic, unseen forces and spiritual strength. If crow enters your life, get out of your familiar nest, look beyond your present range of vision, listen to the message(s) in its caw and act accordingly."

"...the raven is often heard to cackle utterances that sound like "cras, cras." The actual word cras is tomorrow in Latin."

"The raven is symbolic of mind, thought and wisdom according to Norse legend, as their god Odin was accompanied by two ravens: Hugin who represented the power of thoughtand active search for information. The other raven, Mugin represented the mind, and itsability to intuit meaning rather than hunting for it."

"Other Native North American tribes saw the raven as the bringer of light. In fact, southwestern tribes (Hopi, Navajo, Zuni) felt the raven was flew out from the dark womb of the cosmos, and with it brought the light of the sun (dawning of understanding). Consequently, the raven is considered a venerated bird of creation, for without the raven, humans would forever live in darkness."

So let's see, the Raven is:
1. Omen of change
2. Can see past present and future
3. Unite inner and outer light and darkness.
4. Represent color of creation
5. Messengers, waiting to tell us about the magic all around
6. Adaptable to all enviornments.
7. Always looking to tomorrow
8. Strong of mind, thought and wisdom
9. Bringer of life and light.

What a bird, huh? I'm sitting here, listening to this bird outside my window. It knows something, it HAS known something all along that I didn't/don't. Out of all the things I've read about this bird, the two parts that stick out the most:

If crow enters your life, get out of your familiar nest, look beyond your present range of vision, listen to the message(s) in its caw and act accordingly."

"...the raven is often heard to cackle utterances that sound like "cras, cras." The actual word cras is tomorrow in Latin."

While yesterday was horrible, today sucks just as much tomorrow is a new day. Sunday is a new day. Hell, MONDAY is gonna be a new day. This raven is hanging out around my house for a reason. He knows I'm meant for something, and he's here to tell me to not give up. Now, I just gotta listen to that damn bird and know that my future is still bright and not give up...

To be continued...??

2011-09-21T11:07:00.001-05:00

Today is the day of judgement...well, today and tomorrow morning! I didn't want to post anything because I am a firm believer in curses, if I say something, I won't get it. Whenever I watch a Twins game on TV, they seem to lose. Whenever I'm cheering for any particular team, they lose! Colin makes fun of me all the time for thinking this way. I figured, hey, better safe than sorry, no?

However, I couldn't not write anything because I've realized the thing that has been getting me through these last few hard times is everyone's encouragement! So, like I said, today is the day of judgement. I'm going to MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) Oh, let me back up a spot or two, I made tape at the recruiter's office!!! That was huge (it would have been a bigger deal if Tony, my dog, hadn't needed 30 stitches, but that's a whole nother story!)

So because I made it there, I filled out all my paper work that I need and they're sending me to MEPS. Tonight is the night I take my ASVAB. I've been studying for this thing for a long time. I'm fairly confident with it. I'm a smart gal, most of the time. It's tomorrow morning that has been causing me to lose sleep...and a lot of it! Thursday they're going to be waking me up bright and early (no too early, it is the government after all) and I'm going to be measured. I've been calling this process "The Nazi Tapes" because they are SO much stricter, and if they think I'm sucking in or cheating in any way, I'll fail!

Before every karate tournament when I was younger, my dad would always tell me "Remember Cara, you have the best teachers, you've had the best training, give it all you got!" The same sort of thing applies here. I've had the best trainers, I've had the biggest support group and been working my arse off for almost 3 years now.

Maybe it's my time, maybe it's not. I don't know. All I know is, there isn't a lot in life that scares me, but I'm terrified right now. I'm so scared of the rejection I may face tomorrow morning. Everyone's been saying "you got this" and I'm beyond grateful for all the support, but I'm more used to "not quite there" that's all I can seem to think about. I'm trying not to, but it's these old tapes.

Well, there really isn't a lot more to say, except, HOPEFULLY I'll have good news to report tomorrow. If I don't, well, I guess that damn horse is gonna get another couple miles on it!

You guys rock!

2011-09-13T11:54:00.001-05:00

I'm starting this blog, with not sure of what I want to say but knowing I need to say something. Thursday is coming up really quickly and it's making me re-examine just about everything in life. Interesting how something you've done (what feels like) a million times can make you think of something different every time you go.

My last couple trips to the recruiter's office it's made me think a lot about my life. Where I'm coming from, where I'm going and what I've achieved. This time, this week, I've thought a lot about the other people who have gotten me to where I am!

As I was running with my new friend Kelly today, I was talking about my parents and how they literally have given me every opportunity to reach my goal. They've always told me, being happy is the most important thing in life, and they've put their money where their mouth is. At every turn, they've done everything in their power to help me along my journey!!

Family has always been by my side. Colin has given up everything to help me. Between deployments and letting me put everything into this goal, he could have easily said "Ya know, why don't you just do a 9 to 5 job. We'll be fine!" But no, he goes to school full time, works every chance he can PLUS still drills on weekends with his unit. A lot of men wouldn't be as willing to step back and say "go for it," as he is. I am damn lucky.

Again, family doesn't have to be, but mine has been SO beyond supportive I don't ever want to let them down. However, through these past years, I have met so many amazing people and better yet, met people who I KNOW I will get to be friends with for the rest of my life!

There are a few ladies in particular who I love like sisters. I would do anything for them and I know that no matter what I'm going through I will always have a shoulder. Mary Jo, Carrie, Kaity, Cassie, Caitlin and Lulu, because of you guys I'm still on this damn path. So many times I've wanted to give up because I was too tired of fighting for this. Thought it was too hard to ever even come close. Especially in these last 6 months or so, you guys, whether you know it or not, have gotten me past the hardest challenge of my life!! Because of you, I get the boring rosemary chicken, or simply sit and have coffee with you before going for a little walk! You guys have put up with all my crap every time we go out! You put up with my constant "do you know how much sodium is in that!?" and you guys just smile! I don't know many people who would still love me like you guys do after two and a half years of that! :)

My Golds friends. Over a year has gone by since my first real workout home closed. I don't even know what to say about Golds. It's where I realized anything, and I mean ANYTHING is possible! The first time I stepped foot into Golds and signed up, I remember Norman coming up and say "Welcome to our dysfunctional family!" And that's totally what it was...but it SO worked!!

Now my bootcamp loves! When Golds closed, I went from gym to gym trying to fill the void that the lack of Golds left. The camaraderie, the fun and the challenge. Kelly, since I came to bootcamp, you have given me my confidence back that I lost for a while. Every time I go to class I feel like I'm Superwoman!! Doing burpies at the speed of light, able to star jump from building to building in a single bound!! It has given me this final push that I NEEDED. You were there bringing me back to reality when I "couldn't figure out WHY the weight wouldn't come off!" Bootcamp is not just an amazing workout, but I have met a whole group of people who are absolutely amazing! They get my butt out of bed at 5am and they don't even know it!

Finally, the newest group that has given my a new lease on life, are all the people at Gorilla Combat. At first I loved this place, 'cus after a hard day, or frustrating day I could go punch something for an hour. It felt good. But what I learned was how special each person there was! So many different types of folks, and no matter how horrible my day was, I would always leave after that hour, smiling. Even when almost being kicked in the face, I can't help but laugh!! This is a group of very dedicated people, not just to the sport, but to each other! It's rare to find those people who care about others so much, but these people do! I feel so lucky to have met this group!

Of course there are people I meet everyday and those who I've gotten to know better over this journey, who inspire me to keep going. They make me want to better myself, which in turn keeps me going down this road. The people who post the comments on Facebook with strong words of encouragements, those people who just say "wow, that's awesome!" Or the people who just say "let us know how it went on..." So, to all of you, thank you for keeping me going! I didn't know just what I wanted to say when I started this...so, I guess that's that! :) You guys rock!

When the time comes, you'll know.

2011-08-30T20:53:00.002-05:00

How many times have we all heard this cliche? When you meet that person, "you'll know!" I know when I see that one gift, that it'll be the one!! I just don't know what I want to eat, but when I see it, I'll know! Ugh! Well, I think the same thing happens with life. When you reach that crossroads, and you're faced with a dilemma, you'll just know!

Well, today I was placed at a crossroad. Well, I'm at a crossroad where I'll have to think about options. I had an interview today at a bank that I thought was for a part time teller job. Turns out it was for a Personal Banker position. Full 40 hours, 401k, bonus incentives, etc. Sounds great, right? Let me tell you, it sounds even better when you know your unemployment is coming to an end soon. Getting done with the interview, I had a great feeling. They liked me, they loved my answers, I got a couple winks, all the signs I usually would LOVE to see in an interview.

When I asked about the hours, I realized I would have to give up my Gorilla. If you haven't been around, Gorilla Combat has been REALLY helping me get to where I am right now, being 1% away from my dream!

As the managers were talking about the bank, everything sounded so wonderful!! Okay, it sounded wonderful to the me three years ago. I was so torn. I could give Colin a solid base to finish his schooling. It would be a 35k job. Not bad for starting pay. The people couldn't have been more delightful to interview with too. The other kicker "we don't want to train someone then have them decide this isn't a good fit!" As I am the way I am, I do not like doing that to people anyway. If I commit to a job, I will be committed. With this in mind, that means I'd have to maintain my weight and size for THREE YEARS! Without being able to do Gorilla, I'd be lucky if this happened, not to mention lose anymore!

So here I am. To my left, U.S. Bank. A business life. A cubicle. Business suits, meetings, 401ks, a nice steady paycheck. A home and family to come home to every night. A life where I COULD start a family in a couple years if I want. I would stay in Minnesota the rest of my life. I would have my friends forever. I could continue my bootcamp, and possibly find another boxing gym SOMEWHERE.

And to the right, my path to the Army. Creditors calling everyday. Not being able to go out because of training. Not drinking for 8 months at a time. Early mornings, late nights and LONG runs. Diets, headaches, and major stress. Then leaving my family and friends for years plus at a time. Not seeing my husband and dogs. The feeling of homesickness.

When I posed this dilemma on Facebook, I had people give me GREAT excuses for an easy out. The mere idea of the Army will always be there, thoughts. Talking with Colin tonight, I realized, that's exactly what it would be, an easy out. The path of "ya know, I did what I could, I'll be fine with this."

I sit back and I look at these options, but I also look at the road I've been going down for the last three years. What's kept me getting up early and running down the roads? What has inspired me to lose 80 pounds and 65 inches?! It wasn't the dream of a 9 to 5 job. That's not my desire. My desire is to see the world, LOVE what I'm doing and wake up in the morning with no regrets. I don't want a life of "What if!?" I also don't want to be that person who says "I'm fine doing this for the next 30 years!"

No. I'm not a cubicle person. I WILL NOT give up on my dream. Not when I've come this far, and have had so many people backing me up! I know if I went with a regular job people would support me 110% but I don't think I could support me 110%.

If you all haven't been able to tell, I love quotes! For some reason, famous people can say things so much better than us normal folk. There is one quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, I found particularly comforting in this time:
"Whatever you do, you need courage. Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising that tempt you to believe your critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an end requires some of the same courage that a soldier needs. Peace has its victories, but it takes brave men and women to win them."

So, I guess the time has come for me. I now know that I can't give up. While the normal life seems tempting, I now know that where I'm going is where I am really meant to be.

An explanation of me

2011-08-25T09:26:00.002-05:00

I feel like I've been apologizing a lot lately to many people for my workout schedule. It is intense, yes. It's more than most people do, yes. And it even is taking a major priority in my life. I am not able to do everything I would LOVE to do because of it. However, I am not going to apologize anymore!

There are some people who won't understand what it's like to be passionate about anything. I feel very sad for those people. To not have anything to wake up for in the morning, or get them through the day. I've even had someone say "you've only been doing it for three years, it can't be THAT important." Well to those people I say "your child is only three years old, it really can't be THAT important!" Exactly, you know how, well, mean it sounds!

Working out has quite literally changed my entire life! The way I feel about me has done a complete 180! And now I have a goal! A goal which includes an incredibly hard diet (especially when going to numerous Twins games and the State Fair!) and a very rigorous workout routine.

It's funny, I had a good friend of mine say to me last night "ya know, we thought you would get down to your weight and size and say, never mind." I thought that was odd, because that must have been who I was at some point! Not saying it's a bad thing, but the type of person who gets to somewhere and says "well, that's enough!" What working out has taught me, just as a person and about life, is there is ALWAYS one step more.

No longer is there a "oh, I'm there, that's enough!" Nope. I am going to be going to bootcamp. I will be an Officer in the Army. Once I'm in, that won't be enough either. I'll have new goals, new challenges and who knows, by the end of THIS journey, I might come out with a Ph. D. or maybe the Presidency...I guess we'll just have to see!!

Whole new starts, then and now.

2011-08-22T06:57:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it? The State Fair is already here, which means school is starting just around the corner. One of my favorite things to do this time of year is go to Target and walk through the school supplies! I love the smells, seeing the fashions of notebooks (Yeah, they are fashionable, don't lie! I know you spent an hour trying to find the coolest one when you were in school!) and trying to find the best looking and functioning pens (I always got stuck with boring BICs!) Do you remember the anticipation of your first day of school? Whether it was elementary, middle or high school! Not knowing what was going to happen was both the best and the scariest part of all. You never knew who was going to be in your class, what your teacher was going to be like, and best of all, what you were about to learn!

What makes me smirk is the fact that, in my life right now, I am in the exact same position. I'm at a point where, I'm about to have a whole new start! I don't know who I'm going to meet at basic and through my journies. I have no idea what my Drill Instructors are going to be like, or how they'll change my life! I'm going to learn things, see things and do things, that I never thought my life would lead me to!

How exciting?! It's that same feeling of the first day of school all over again. You can feel something about is going to change, for the better! Each year and each step through those hallways is one step closer to the future!!

How can I not share this??

2011-08-05T08:06:00.001-05:00

Can you believe it?! It's been almost three years. Three long, grueling, crazy years!! Initially, I got the idea to join the military right after college in 2007. However, no matter how hard I tried I never could quite get below that certain mark (if you must know, 220 pounds...I know...crazy!) Well you know the rest of the story, I met the people that changed my life!! They effected my everyday.

Let me rephrase that last statement...you know the rest of the story, up until now. Sometimes when you're so strong for so long, it's hard to relax. About one month ago, we decided to make the date of my measurement August 8, Monday. Well the anticipation was quite literally killing me inside. These last 6 days I've been on a no carb, low fat, low sodium diet. I couldn't sleep, was making myself sick, and every thought of "what if" went running through my head. If they could use how I was feeling as torture, it would be illegal.

So, Kelly, my bootcamp instructor, sent me a text last night at about 9 pm saying "let's do a preliminary measurement!" At that point, I did cry. I don't think I could ever hear "You're SO close" again. If I did hear it, my sympathies to that punching bag I got ahold of! Anyway, so as I was sitting there, crying, nervous as all hell, I turned on John Denver. Why? Because I'm sorry, who has a more soothing voice than that man? Exactly, no one.

My alarm goes off today at 5:00. I wake up, look at my ceiling and say to myself "this is it, do or die." Up and out the door I go. I walk in and holy buckets, there are A LOT of people there. Greeted warmly Kelly asked if I wanted to do it now, or after. Well, of course I said after...I gotta get every inch possible off me! :)

So we complete a faboo bootcamp (per usual!) and everyone heads out, and there I am...me, Kelly and the measuring tape. She measures my neck, waist and hips. She measures my waist and says "let me check again!" Of course I'm thinking "oh crap, it went up!" Down 3/4 of an inch!! Then my hips. Oh my dreaded hips! Down an inch and a quarter!!! That's two inches gone...I only had to lose one to pass!!

My friends, I am no long "SO DANG CLOSE" No, I AM THERE! I'm going in Monday to the recruiter's office to get my "official" measurement. Don't worry, I used the official Army measurement AP on my phone, the same one the recruiter uses! :)

So there we go people. What more can I say?! It's time to get studying for that ASVAB again.

If there's something I hope people get from anything you've ever read in this blog, is that, no matter what your dream is, no matter how crazy people think you are, it is possible! ANYTHING is possible. Just put your head down, blinders on, and focus on that goal, because at the end of the day, if you did everything you could do, you're always going to be a success!!

HOOAH!!!

P.S. The final stats: 80 pounds gone and 65+ inches off!!

My rolls

2011-07-22T07:48:00.001-05:00

You know what I love about my bootcamp class? Not only do I get an amazing workout, I learn something new about me. Either that it's I can push myself to new limits, or even if it's something about my personality, that, I knew was there, deep down somewhere but it was hiding.

Well this morning, standing around chatting, a wonderful fellow bootcamper brought up rolls. She basically was saying how, we, as women especially, seem to take on a lot of them. I'm not saying just doing chores, I'm talking about who we are in life.

Contemplating on the way home (on my quick five minute drive) I thought, I should figure out just who I am. Well, unfortunately that seems to take longer than five minutes. But what better way to figure that out than here, where the whole world can see my most inner thoughts, eh?

So here is a list of who I am. Some are "well, duh!" and others may require a bit of explanation.

1. Wife to the most wonderful, caring hubby and soldier a girl could have. He has allowed me to live my dreams, and never once said "maybe you should just go get a 9 to 5er." He knows I couldn't be happy with just doing that. No matter what, he stands behind me!

2. Daughter to two parents who taught me to be who I am in life. They taught me to always stand my ground, speak my mind and to always be who I am.

3. Mother to my two puppies and one lizard!

4. Strong shoulder- Maybe this includes being a friend, but whenever someone needs a friend, I'm there for them (and I hope all my friends know this!) So many times people ask me "how do you do it?!" Whether it's referring to going through two deployments, or working out like a mo-fo, but again, no matter what, it's just being strong for the people around me. Someones gotta, right? :)

5 .Bootcamper- Three days a week, I'm up at 5 am, ready to go get my bootcamp on. It's helped me become what I am now, and I will always say it has!

6. Future soldier- While "soldier" is not an option, YET, I still try to train everyday, as hard as I can, to be the best I can. Whether it's exercise or daily tasks, I believe a soldier should be strong in everything they do.

7. Boxer- I've found a new love. Whenever I put on those gloves, I feel like a new person. Someone who I've never been before.

8. Fighter- Seriously, don't get in my way! :)

9. Runner- Each time I run, I go for something new. Whether it's a distance or time, I have to push to new limits.

10. Friend- I'm ashamed that this is so far down the list. I have the most supporitve and wonderful friends a girl could ask for, and sometimes I feel like they come, well, 10th in my life. That's not a good thing. I can see now it's time to prioritize a bit!

11.Inspirer- Every day someone tells me "Cara, you're such an inspiration!" Well, I'm just a person and to have people say this constantly, believe it or not, can be very stressing! I love that I can help people reach their goals, but then I feel, if I don't meet mine, that others are going to lose hope. And that's something I really don't want to have happen.

12.Dreamer- Sounds like a McCartney song, eh? Well, maybe I am. Whenever I'm driving down the highways in the morning, no cars around, I dream of just keeping on going. When I go past the airport I think of just getting on a plane and flying to an exotic destination. I love to live vicariously through people who get to go places, see things do things I've never had a chance to do.

13. Politicizer/Justice Seeker- POLITICS. Especially lately. Everywhere I look I see politics. On the
street, on Facebook, in yards, on cars, and boy does it make my blood boil. I clump these two together because I feel like our politicians on both sides, are screwing over the little guys. I know of people working four jobs, and currently seeks another two. The bible says to love each other, and help others, and I'm sorry, that means everyone, not just the people on the same side of the isle.

Okay, so that's a list of 13 things I am, and that's just off the top of my head!! As I was wraping up the list, I realized there are three MAJOR things not on there. Number one, a sister. My sister and I don't always see eye to eye. Okay, the only thing we see eye to eye on, is literally, eye to eye. We are the exact same height. Maybe I'm a bad sister, I dunno. I'm not always the most supportive in the world. I also have a big mouth and WILL say what I think when I think, whether it's appreciated or not! We are total, 100% polar opposites. I don't make an effort like I should. I can use distance as an excuse, but then she comes to town and I still don't see her. Maybe as time goes that will change, I hope it does.

The next thing I'm missing on there is being a Christian. I believe in God, I believe in heaven, I believe in (most) of the bible. However, it's not something that happens in my everyday life. (Let's hope my pastor's don't read this!) I have friends who live their lives around God. Awesome! That's not who I am. I struggle with the existence. If God controls EVERYTHING, why is there famine? Why is there hate? Why is it we aren't helping everyone? Why are there natural disasters that kills thousands? Why are there some people who get looks, money, personality, love and fame and others who have to work their butts off just to get a third part time job as they come home to an empty house with no love? I would think God would be an equal opportunity god...

Finally, the last thing on my list, which should definitely be on there, is Cara. I am who I am. All these things shape me, day in and day out. While I'm not the best at being everything I am the best at being Cara. Whether that's being a shoulder to cry on, or punching a bag as hard as I can, what more is there, except being me?!

Rambles...with a purpose!!

2011-07-19T22:31:00.000-05:00

Oh...my...gosh! So this weather is just killing me! It's now been in the 90's for the last few days, and I'm ready for it to break! Part of the hardest part is that I'm sitting at home, looking out the window and dreaming of being out, and being active!

What's worse is that the boredom takes over and I get into my grazing modes. Rather than eating the small five meals a day I should, I just kinda dig through the cupboards thinking "Oh...this sounds good!" Then I eat it and think to myself "Oh, that wasn't as good as I thought!" Then I think "Oh crap, why did I just eat that?!" *sigh* I'm telling you my friends, this needs to stop (the weather and the grazing!)

But, as many of you know, when you're bored, it's SO hard to say no. It's hard to grab that chicken rather than the simple bowl of cereal. Or, the chicken rather than that big, juicy, delicious hot dog, right off the grill!!

HOWEVER, I DID go running today, in about 90 degree weather! Can I just tell you, when it's that hot out, you can go about half the distance and get, what feels like, just as difficult of workout! Fhew! My shirt changed colors in only 20 minutes!!!

Anyway, yes, this was just a bunch of ramble, but it help me let my frustrations out, and this damn grazing habit of mine needs to stop! SO, now that you all know, I can move on and once more get back to that thing I like to call AWESOMENSS!!!

Terrified

2011-07-14T22:19:00.000-05:00

So, there are very few things in life that TRULY scare me. I don't like horror movies, but I can close my eyes and it's gone. Not a fan of tight spaces, but I know I'll get out of it soon. I want to jump out of planes and I'm working on other little phobias. There's one thing, however, that every time I think about it, I start doubting everything about life and start shaking in my shoes a bit.

About three weeks and some odd days, I am going to get the measurement. Not just any measurement, THE measurement. The one that will make me go to the recruiter or not. Again, I know with the 1% over I'm good to get in, but I want SOOO bad to meet those damn standards.

Part of the reason of this new found fear, is for some reason this past month has been a lot of extra stress. Colin and I had to move, which means we ate out A LOT!! We cleaned our fridge out and discovered that Shakopee had many yummy restaurants. On top of eating out, because I lost my job, I had to take a whole month off bootcamp. That was harder than anything I think. Not only did I not have my butt kicked three days a week, but I got VERY used to sleeping in until 8:30 every morning. Well, when you have no job, I felt I had no reason to get up. This in turn lead to more laziness and drowsiness. A vicious cycle. The whole month was just off!!

So to make up for a BAD month, I've upped the exercise. I've added a lot more running into the program again, I'm back to Gorilla five or six days a week, and best yet, I'm back at my bootcamp. I did start the 28 days diet again, but for some reason, my body did not take well to it this time. I think with the stress of all these changes plus then adding a whole new diet, just was too much at once!

Anyway, so maybe it's just a whole bunch of excuses, but all I know is I am so nervous. August 8th is going to be my official measure date. If all goes well, I'm heading to that recruiter's office August 9th.

Breathe in, breathe out. Everything WILL happen when it's time. Now I just have to convince myself of that...

I DID IT!

2011-06-24T15:25:00.001-05:00

For about two years now I've been thinking "what am I going to name my post when..." well, this is it! For the first time since I started my journey, the head of MEPS (military entrance processing station)...not just a recruiter, no the HEAD of MEPS said that I, Cara Ann Berg Rainey, am eligible to enlist!!!

Let me start at the beginning. We have a good family friend that's a Colonel. He called me the other day when I was out with my family and told me to call a certain captain. However, before I called, the Colonel warned me, I had to ask Colin what a Silver Star was. Fortunately I knew. A Silver Star is one award below the Medal of Honor. It's a rare and very important award to receive. Well, this Captain who I was supposed to just "give a buzz to" is a Silver Star recipient!!!! Talk about a man to be honored to know. Anyway, so I jingled this Captain, and he asked me what my body fat percentage was. I told him, and I said, "I know it'll turn at 27, so I'm where I need to be at the age of 27!" Well, when he said "unfortunatly the age doesn't change until 28," my heart SANK! Then, he tossed in the word "HOWEVER!" and my heart was enlightened once more. He said "HOWEVER, you are eligible, due to MEPS allowing 2% over the Army Regulated body Fat."

Okay folks, I do not cry, when I hung up the phone I CRIED! For the first time since I started this journey, I AM ABLE TO ENLIST!!!!!

Ideally, he said, I should lose about 1% more just to be safe, so I am. I'm going to do the 28 day takedown then get my arse into that recruiting station!!

I cannot begin to explain HOW excited I am. You guys have certainly been reading this through my ups and my downs and now, thanks to all your love, support and encouragement, I'm finally going to be making my dreams come true!! So, with all that said, what more can I say but..."I DID IT!"

Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that all was vanity; but the dreamers of day are dangerous men, for they act their dream with eyes wide open and make it possible. - T. E. Lawrence (of Arabia)

Karma...you're a b**ch

2011-06-08T11:15:00.000-05:00

While things go right sometimes, karma has not been on my side lately. Losing my job added stress beyond comparison. Trying to pack and organize for moving is always a monster headache, plus this economy sucks and constant rejection is something that none of us like. Hey, while we're at it, let's add gas prices, war, famine, natural disasters and Ryan Secreast....the world would be a better place without all of them!

Fortunately for me I always try to find the good out of every situation. I've come to see in the last two weeks, I have friends and family who would try to move Heaven and Earth for me. When I need to talk, when I need a place to stay, when I need to get away for a night, someone is ALWAYS there for me.

Two days ago, the weather was HOT. And not just "oh I'm from Minnesoooota, and it's 70 out" hot. No it was "step out and piles of sweat start forming at your feet, 108 plus humidity, hot!" Genius me, I decided, what a perfect day for a run!! I started out on my little trip, and I got about a mile and half, running in the pure heat, no shade, just me and the blacktop. I turned a corner and there was a tree, casting a welcoming patch of sun relief upon the sidewalk. Gladly, I stopped. As I was standing there catching my breath, attempting to de-cotton my cotton mouth, I got to thinking where I was a couple years ago. Not 100% sure anymore where I came from, I went back to my first post on my blog.

I've lost over 60 inches and 75 pounds! Not only that, when I started running, I was able to run LESS than a quarter of a mile! Now here I am, running 5ks like they're nothing, boxing and doing muay-thai five or six days a week, wearing clothing I never thought I would be able to! I should feel really good, right? I'm not a big fan of Jillian Michaels, honestly, she scares me. However, as I was looking at things to inspire me again, I ran across this quote: "When friends tell you how awesome you look, drop the "I still have more to go" crap. You worked hard and you deserve the compliment! "

Well I'm going to learn to do that. I HAVE worked hard to get where I am today, and whether karma wants to play nice or not, it's MY choice as to, not whether or not I'm going to succeed, but WHEN I'm going to succeed! So back off karma, you're either with me or against me. Whichever you choose, I'm gonna get my way!

Random Thoughts

2011-05-18T21:15:00.000-05:00

In the last week or so I've had about a million thoughts going through my head. So rather than keeping them all bottled up inside, I would share them with you here. After all isn't that the point of this thing?

First, I've developed a new pet peeve...when you help someone out with something and they don't say "hey thanks!" I think that's all anyone every really wants when helping out. I mean how difficult is it really? Especially when it's a favor that does take time can you please just be like "ya know, I appreciate it!" It makes people feel good, and it makes them feel like they did something right in the day.

I have a kanker sore, and it hurts. I want it to go away. Now.

Loud, rude children annoy the heck out of me. Parents need to learn to control their mutts in public places.

I'm starting my individual boxing lessons soon. In about 3 month I get my first bout. I gotta find some really groovy wraps...I'm thinking some camo wraps. Yes. Camo.

I need to get my dogs flee and tick stuff. We've found about 6 ticks already this Spring, between Tony and Spike.

I got a mosquito bite! The first one of the summer...it has arrived!

Summer is coming and I am really hoping and praying that I'm gonna get these last three inches off of me. They're hanging on like a bad cold holds on in winter. SOOOO dang close and I think that's my problem. If I stay exactly where I am I'll be able to enlist in December. Do you know how frustrating it is??!! UGH!

Basically, who are we kidding, those three inches are what's on my mind all the time. As much as children who are rude, as well as people who are ungrateful have been driving me nuts, I feel like my life is consumed by the number three. Am I under eating? Am I over eating? Am I exercising too much? Should I run more? Should I focus on my core? Should I listen to this person or that person? All these things running through my head. Time will tell, as will the summer, but man it's frustrating.

Well, those are my random thoughts of the week. Thanks for reading! :)

One month strong

2011-05-09T14:53:00.001-05:00

Well, as you all know I just completed my 28 day diet. The results were awesome and I felt SO good when I was done. I was feeling SO good about what I had done that somehow my wonderful husband convinced me to stop into a recruiter's office to just have a "chit-chat." Little did I know that, what I thought was going to be a five minute conversation turned into a 45 minute dialogue. When I got done talking with SFC Frantz, I felt SO good, better than usual, about where I'm standing.

Being that he's the Army's equivalent to a nutritionist he reassured me that what I was doing on the diet was what I NEEDED to enlist. While we were talking he had me measure myself (being that he was a male, he wasn't able to.) according to the measurements, I only have three more inches to lose! (Yeah, I thought I was one, but that's a whole other story, heehee!) Never the less, last month on the 28 day I lost a total of 5 inches, 3 of which were in my waist (where I needed to actually lose!)

Here's my game plan: after consulting Kelly, I got the okay to do a modified version of the 28 day diet. Being that I need to integrate the fats back into my body, I am going to do three days on the weeks 1-3 plan, then one day of the week 4 plan. Not only that, I'm back to full health so I'm heading back to muay-thai tonight after my bootcamp this morning!

I am SO close I can taste it! If I stick to this plan folks, I could possibly be where I need by June!!! However, I'm not counting my chickens this go round, my goal is three inches by the end of the summer. That gives me about 3 and a half months! Of course I want to get there before that, but I have to be realistic, too!

Oh, and the other news about me joining, I decided to go enlisted for three years first. As nice as the money would be to get OCS pay right away, if I can "be in the trenches" for a while first, I'll be a better Officer and soldier in the future. The other benefit, which makes a lot of sense, is simply, enlisted have more fun! If I go in right as an officer, I won't get to have the fun the enlisteds do! The competition for OCS enlistment is hard! You have to be the best of the best, right off the bat. To be honest, I just want to get my foot in that darn door!

So anywho, that's what's happening. I have one month to be strong, and as I keep telling myself: what's one month to the rest of my life?!

OH, P.S. I did my first 5k yesterday and it went GREAT!!! When I finished I felt like I could go farther!

28 days and the start of Lt. Rainey

2011-05-03T19:46:00.001-05:00

Wow! I can't believe it! Another 28 day diet has come to an end! Like the first one, I would call it a total success!! The results are in:

Total weight loss: 11 pounds (exactly the same as last time)
Total inches lost: 5 inches, 3 of which were around my belly!!!

You know what that means folks??!! I'M ONLY ABOUT 1 INCH AWAY FROM GETTING TO ENLIST!!!!! I never, ever thought I would get this close to my goals. When Kelly took my measurements on Monday I didn't know what to expect. I was thinking maybe one or two total. But no...I lost FIVE!! I can tell after this that my pants are fitting better, my energy is getting back up and my outlook is just generally better! I don't think there are enough words to explain how grateful I am to have found this "Body-fit Bootcamp!" All the people there, especially Kelly, keeps me motivated and they all truly believe I CAN reach my goals and that I will!! I'm reaching new heights that I never thought I would!!

One of my big accomplishments this diet go round happened on Sunday. I ran a good 7 mile run, with under a 10 minute mile! What makes this more exciting, is that it's only my third run of the season! :) I'm running my first official 5k on Sunday, mother's day, for the breast cancer walk! From here on, I'm signed up for one 5k a month during the summer, starting the training for the half marathon!

One of my favorite things during my runs, is not listening to great music, but it's getting a lot of time to think. Through this last jaunt, I thought a lot about my past. I really started to think about where I was two years ago. Two years ago I was at 250 pounds and a size 14 to 16 pant! If someone suggested running, I merely laughed and asked to which malt shop we were running to?? Now I'm down to 175 with a lot of muscle! I'm at a size 6 pant, which is already getting loose!! On my trek I ran by what was once Golds Gym. I thought about how, walking in there one day and Norman saying "Welcome to our dysfunctional family," changed my whole life!!! When I went in there, I wanted to lose a few pounds! NEVER did I think I'd be joining the military, boxing people in the ring and now helping other people reach their goals!!! It really goes to show you, that they journey of a thousand miles, really does begin with a single step!

What else is new you ask? Well I have an interview on Thursday for a "Wellness Coach" position. Basically I would help encourage people in their weightloss/gain (yeah, there are some who want to gain!) and nutrition goals! How wonderful!! I love helping people and now I get to help many!!

All in all, among the ups and downs, I'd say these last weeks were very successful! Help me out folks...I only have ONE MORE INCH then I get to live my dreams and FINALLY, after two years, become Lt. Rainey...yeah, it has a great ring to it!!

Almost there

2011-04-28T22:44:00.000-05:00

Yes, the 28 day diet is almost over!! I can't believe it! Only three more days and I'll have completed this diet two times! Ya know, it seems to be getting easier and easier. I think if I keep going on for a week or two beyond, this will actually become a habit!

Well, let me tell you a couple of the things I'm going to change during these summer months! First, I'm going to continue to eat five meals a day, totaling 2000 calories per day. Since I've started boxing and muay-thai four days a week, I've realized my body isn't getting the nutrition it needs! Second, I'm going to continue on the lack of preservatives. Okay, I'm going to have some, I can't give up my cereal, but for example, I'm going to start baking bread once a week versus going to the store and buying it. Third, I'm going to be much more careful on my portions. I know I say this a lot, but I've realized it just doesn't take that long. Yeah, I'm going to enjoy going out to eat again, I'm not gonna lie. And you know what else? I'm going to enjoy the occasional slice of pizza!

It's funny how a mere 28 days can transform you physically and mentally. Within this time, I've found myself shopping for "women" style t-shirts, which is something I never even thought would happen. The thought of my trip to Florida is really making me want to look really good!! My arms are getting toned, and my body is getting strong!

So, I'm not really sure what else I have to say. The weather is getting beautiful, my outlook is ever changing, and while I know I will have some more downs, I know I'll have people to pick me up once more!!

Stinging like a bee

2011-04-17T09:14:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile again, my bad! So much has been going on sometimes I forget to write it all down! Well, where do I begin??

First I should say, I'm back on my 28 day diet and I'm about half way through. So far I'm down 7 pounds! Which is a great start!! This time it seems to be so much easier than the first! I discovered a way to make super yummy spaghetti!! Not only that, but I found bunny shaped brown rice noodle pasta!! I think the thing I am learning this time, other than how to properly eat, is that to lose weight, I still need to eat ENOUGH. Even when I was doing Weight Watchers, I don't think I was eating enough points! So, I'm going to stay on this type of eating, even after the 28 days! Add a few things back in like fats and fruits, but good fats, like avocados and olive oils. (Maybe toss in some dairy too!) Anyway, I think I'm learning more of a life lesson this go round, than a temporary lesson.

As for the fitness aspect, well that has gone down at all, rather bumped it up a couple levels. I started boxing and muay-thai! It's at a gym called Gorilla Fitness. I LOVE IT!! It's so awesome to know that I get to punch the living daylights out of something for an hour everyday if I want! Not since my workouts with Norman have I come home with so many glory bruises! I was talking to a couple folks from my bootcamp class (which I still love!!) and I realized that, since Golds closed, haven't I felt like I had another workout family, now I love going again! When Golds closed one year ago now, I bounced from gym to gym. It wasn't until I found these two places where I feel like I'm really being challenged again and where I have a group of people who encourage me everyday!! That's what I've been missing, and to tell ya the truth, it sucked!!! Oh, and I should be having my first match in a couple months, so I'll keep you updated on that one!

Well, things are turning around...again! :) Summer is coming up too, which will allow me to get out and get back to running!! Time to train for that half marathon!!

Vulnerability

2011-03-28T20:34:00.002-05:00

Since I've started this, what's turning into LONG venture, there have been a lot of ups and downs, most of which I've shared with all of you on here. Well my friends, I'm now at a point where I'm feeling an emotion I haven't felt yet. Vulnerable.

I'm so flattered that all of you think I am strong 24/7, but I tell you, there are some hours where I want to hide under a table and cry and cry. Lately this emotion has been overtaking me. While I'm still loving my workouts and even diets, sometimes enough is enough. I'm weak. Right now, at this time, I'm not the strong roll model you all have come to know and love.

I love knowing that I can lift you guys up when you're struggling. Part of the reason I'm still going is knowing that you all are inspired to reach your goals! Right now, I'm asking for your help. I'm so tired of fighting this battle, day after day. I need your help to keep me strong! I won't lie, I want to give up! My mind and heart are constantly at odds and believe me, it gets REALLY tiring!

Sometimes I can't always get across just how I feel, so I'm sharing with you two songs that .

In the roses, in the spring, I remember
There was a time I wasn't afraid of anything
With the lilacs and the rain
One day you went away
I remember
I forgot everything

My mother's always trying to tell me
How to be grateful, how to believe
My father's always trying to say
Baby, you're beautiful in every way
My lover's always got me in his arms
Trying to protect me, keep me from harm
So why do I always have to be
My worst, my own worst enemy

In the shadows, in the grays, in the lonely

There is a place
Where we can all hide away
But in the windows of the soul
There is nowhere we can go
If we keep running
Running from our destiny

Say I walk on water
Say I walk on the moon
But it's never enough
No it's never enough, no it's never enough
Say I'm only human
It's all in my head
But it's never enough
No it's never enough, no it's never enough
One day I'll find my alibi

So, what is my destiny?? I guess I don't know right now, but I must say, no matter what happens, I'm grateful to have come this far with all of you!!

New Explorations

2011-03-26T14:02:00.000-05:00

There gets to be a point in this whole "life is a journey" crap where you just want to punch the hell out of something! Fortunatly for me, I found this thing!

Starting around the first of the month, I'm going to be training in the MMA arena! For you people (eh-hem, MOM) who don't know what MMA is, it's stands for mixed martial arts. You know those shows where they kick and punch the crap out of each other? THAT, my friends, is what I am going to be starting.

You may be asking yourself, "Cara, why are you doing this crazy venture?" And I answer to you, because I am SOOO frustrated with weightloss, and dieting and exercising, that I have found something where, the harder you hit, the better you are!

Okay, rewind a bit. For the last month people have been telling me that I need to stop thinking about getting into the Army so much, that I need to find a "hobby." What very few people know about me, is once I pick up a hobby, the rest of my life begins to revolve around it. I don't have that, I'll give it 30% of my time attitude. It's all or nothing my friends. So what this means in terms if finding a hobby is, I need to find a hobby in fitness.

Well, I run, yes. I've tried a cycle class and my butt hurt! I gave Zumba a shot, and while fun, yes, I got NO workout! I looked into getting a nutrition degree and that was just expensive! So, at the end of my rope Colin and I saw the movie "The Fighter." If you don't know, "The Fighter" is the life story of boxer "Irish" Mickey Ward and his trainer brother Dick Eklund. It's about coming from behind, when the whole world gave up on him, he became world champ! (If you haven't seen it, do so, you'll understand!) In high school I took Karate and loved it, but on Saturdays we did kick boxing. Well, you can see where this is all going!

I ended up at a gym called Gorilla Fitness. It's a dirty gym with a boxing ring, punching bags, speed bag and an odor that smells like,well, a gym! Not a Lifetime "gym," but a real, in your face "you work hard or you get lost" type of gym!

So, for now, I've found my outlet! 4 days a week, I get to go punch and punch until I can't punch anymore! Ya never know, maybe they'll make a movie about your truly! :)

Dream Boards

2011-03-04T13:21:00.000-06:00

One of my assignments on Monday was to make a dream board, so rather than typing it all up, I figured I'd just show it to ya! :)

The first dream/motivator for getting to my goal, is my tattoo! When I get to my goal weight, I get it!

Yes, Jason Statham! Why? Because someday I want to be the female version of this guy!!

Someday I am gonna run this marathon, and rock it!!

My goal weight! Not just my goal weight, my weight with as little of body fat as possible!

Time to hit up Uncle Sam on that offer!

Proud of my thunder thighs!!

I want my masters, and I want it from here!!

My mantra!! You can use it if you'd like! :)

Yes, you see Gummy Bears! I want to get to the point in my nutrition where I can have a bag of gummy bears and enjoy them! Not worry about every single bite I take!

Who doesn't want to travel??

All of these are fortunes I found within two weeks time! They're hard to see, but they all have to do with my plans working out!

I want my family to have a better life! The only way I can guarantee that is by making it!

Everyday, baby steps!

...and it will be done

I want the pay of an officer, yeah, it's a motivator!

I'm daring! :)

The poster hanging on my wall!

So that is my dream board! My reminder everyday that I will reach my goals! I would suggest you make one too! We all have goals!

My mantra

2011-02-28T16:21:00.000-06:00

Today I had homework, 4 assignments.

1. Keep track of my food and email for critiques!
2. Create my dream board (once it's complete, I'll give you more information!)
3. Find my mantra.

If you don't know, a mantra is a way of life. In my particular situation, it's a way of weight loss life. So I thought and I thought and I thought. Then I realized, why am I thinking so hard when Google can bring just as much inspiration! I must say, there are a lot of LAME mantras out there! For example:

"Nothing tastes as good as thin feels." SO cliche!

"It's not a race its a marathon." *yawn!*

"I think I can, I think I can..." I too love The Little Engine that could, but it just wasn't right.

Finally, I came across ONE that I saw it and said to myself "YES!" So ladies and gents, my mantra, my day to day phrase, my do or die is:

"The pain of discipline is less than the pain of regret."

HOW TRUE!!?? It's the same thing as saying, "okay Cara, seriously, do you really want that? Um, no, no you don't!" This, when it's done, will go on my dream board!!

So that task is done for the day! Now, I'm gonna go kick back and relax...'cus that was assignment number four! :)

Start of something

2011-02-24T19:32:00.000-06:00

You know they say you hit rock bottom before you come back up? Well, I have to ask, how many freakin' times do I have to bounce back from rock bottom before I finally stay up.

I have been on this journey now for over two years, yes, that's right TWO YEARS! If you're wondering that's 728 days. 17,472 hours. 1,048,320 minutes and 62,899,200 seconds. (Just keep adding to those seconds why don't ya?) Looking at it from that point of view, that's a lot of time out of life. While I've had so many downs during those times, I have also had a lot of ups!

As the winter is coming to a close I think cabin fever is starting to come into play. I haven't been able to run outside, I've been stuck in a stinky gym among strangers who won't B.S. with me and I also haven't had a lot of the companionship that I had for the first full year, and man do I miss that! Not only that but my weight has been pretty still for the past year. I've gone up and down, up and down, up and down. A real mind game! With all these factors, I hit bottom yesterday...AGAIN! I'm getting really damn tired of it, I'm not gonna lie to you!

After crying to my bootcamp instructor (literally), after crying to my mom, and of course crying to Colin at night I went to bed not minding if the sun came up the next day. Well, you know good ol' mother Earth, she brought that sun up again!! Not only is she bringing the sun up each day, she's making it come up earlier, and go to bed later! The weather is starting to get nice and the birds are back out chirping!

Now, if that's not a metaphor for life, I don't know what is! The dark times are going to get less, the up bright times will be longer. The pounds, like the snow, will start melting soon, until then, a little bit more will gain, but it will go down. The birds are singing a song for the soul, upbeat and a tune of hope. (yeah, that's cheesy, but go ahead and use it!)

Pretty much, what I'm getting at is Spring is around the corner. Spring brings new life back to this state of ours. I will take advantage of it and I'll put a spring back in my step and attitude (Oo, bam, I'm full of them tonight!) and I won't give up on my goal.

Still wrapped around my wrist is the bracelet my mum gave me and it says "fall seven times, stand up eight." Well, number 8, here we go again!!

Hand in hand

2011-02-03T15:14:00.001-06:00

Sometimes we get lucky where we get to have two goals. What's better is when those goals go hand in hand so well, it's more like fate is playing a roll!

I think part of my stagnant weight loss and motivation is that I've been working for the same goal for so long. Well, realizing that I need to do more cardio to kick this back up, I've decided I, Cara Ann Berg Rainey, am going to start training for a half marathon! Not just any marathon, but the Disney Princess Half Marathon!! What better place to enjoy it all than running with Tigger and Donald and Mickey!!

Check out what it's all about

I have one year to get ready for this! I know I can do this and it will REALLY help my goals into losing weight and losing inches. Fun huh? Another journey to take!

(P.S. I'm also doing the 60 mile walk in August, so I'll keep you updated on that front, too!)

28 Days Later

2011-02-02T20:53:00.000-06:00

Hmm...28 Days Later, sounds like a pretty good horror flick, eh? Writing it down for later! (check)

This 28 day journey is over. While I wrote about it I thought I would share with you all my picture. This is just merely after 28 days!

After all this I'm still 5% away (lost 2% since November) from where I need to be so there's much more to be done, but I must say, it has given me the kick start I need again! Each day is a brand new day, and I'd say everything is going in the right direction!

Results and the future!

2011-01-28T13:08:00.000-06:00

Well, so much for the blogging everyday, but what can I say, this month has brought a lot of new adventures! :)

First, I am done with the 28 day challenge. I am afraid to say I couldn't complete the final week. Partially because I work out WAY too dang much! Between work (I got a new job that keeps me VERY active) and working out, I burn close to 3000 calories a day. To not eat carbs really caused havoc on my stomach! So, in place I actually joined Weight Watchers again. I'm going to be continuing in on the way I learned from this however. Natural, few preservatives, and low sodium!

However, these past three weeks were not a bust! In it, I lost 11 pounds and since I measured myself, I've lost 2% of my body fat! That means I'm only 5% away now from where I need to be to get in!! I last measured myself at the end of October, to give you some idea! As for my pants, I'm almost at my size 6! My 8s are a little big, and the 6s are a LITTLE small...ya know that in between stage? Yeah, that's where I am!

Anyway, I'm continuing on this journey, more determined than ever!! In the next few months I really want to get down to where I need to be!! Maybe by summer? I don't know, all I know is that now, finally, we have time and finally I am getting happy being me!!

Fall backs, fall back ups!

2011-01-16T18:19:00.000-06:00

Sometimes diets just suck, I won't lie to you! This morning I woke up feeling great because of the awesome job I did last night at Applebees! After work, we went out and I brought my own food! It was portioned out, I avoided the nachos, mozi sticks and quesadilla! PLUS, again avoided the pop and drank lots of water.

So, like I said, I woke up this morning feeling great about myself and this diet! While being optimistic, I stood on the scale and what did it say? 2 pounds...UP!!! WTF!? Oh man, I wanted to give up right then and there! I was so mad. Yes, I've gone down 8, but now up two is only minus 6! I know, boo hoo, but that is a big mental challenge and an even bigger slap in the face!

Think about it, you do everything you're supposed to then the scale says "F-You Cara, I'm gonna do what I want! And I want to try to destroy everything you've been working for!" Well Mr. Scale, for about 5 minutes you won!

Luckily it takes me more than 5 minutes to get ready, 'cus otherwise I probably would have eaten a whole dang box of Lucky Charms! Oh..my...gosh, I was beyond depressed. Then my wonderful husband stepped in and reminded me, I HAVE lost 6 still...in two weeks. He wouldn't let me give up. So I sat down, turned on my DVR episodes of I Love Lucy, and Colin made me my scrambled egg whites with oatmeal.

So worry not my dear friends, I've bounced back up. We went to go see The Green Hornet today (p.s. it WAS a good movie despite what critics have been saying) and I drooled over the popcorn, the pop and ALL the candy that was around me. However, I did not touch...*pat on back* So, back to the diet, back to being strong and back to not touching my Lucky Charms...someday I'll catch you Mr. Lucky, someday!

Week One Recap!

2011-01-09T09:45:00.000-06:00

Holy diet time Batman, it's already been one week since I've started this diet!! I cannot believe that one week ago I sat down with everyone else doing this diet, terrified about how I was going to make it 28 days!! Well, once I discovered all the food I CAN eat, I realized this was gonna be a great 28 days!

First, I should give a recap about yesterday. I went to bootcamp in the a.m. but then, at night, went to the Buffet at Mystic Lake Casino. I was SO proud of how I did. I started with a salad and roll w/fat free dressings, went onto rotissery chicken with veggies and no sauce, and yes, another roll! Then for dessert I had sugar free/fat free vanilla frozen yogurt (okay, so I added a bit of hot fudge, but it was my cheat meal!! Leave me alone!)

In the first week, from the time I weighed in on her scale, and then today on mine (so keep in mind, there may be some variance) but I have lost 7 pounds!! And I haven't done anything drastic at all! I changed to natural foods, no sugar, salt and fat, and am drinking a lot more water and no pop! The exercise I'm doing is what I've been doing before this whole thing started.

Starting this week however, I can expect to start seeing a plateau. It sucks but I just have to keep on, keep on. My body, for some reason, likes to get used to diets SO easily. Within two weeks it starts slowing down and I have to discover new ways of shocking it! I'm feeling healthy, motivated and back on track to my goals!! If I have to do a week or two of this every once and a while, so be it my friends, I will! Either way it's a new lifestyle which is leading me to a whole new life!!

First day at T.C.

2011-01-08T09:44:00.000-06:00

Last night completed night 24 of this diet! Luckily it wasn't on day 28 that I came across the challenge of *bum bum bum* the target center!! It was quite the feat! The first was avoiding the popcorn! Everyone was looking at MY food and saying "oO, that looks so good!" While I was looking at their popcorn saying "Oo, that looks so good!" Well I got through the glorious smell of popcorn, but what I'm even more proud of is I AVOIDED THE POP! I was really worried about it, I'm not gonna lie! Before this, Colin and I would go through at least a 12 pack a week! I know for 2 people that's not terrible, but that's still a can a day at least! To avoid free pop was a challenge that I overcame!! I guess we'll see how tonight goes now! :) YAY FOR DAY 23! I'm almost done with week one already, I can't believe it!! WE CAN DO IT!!

Inspiration In Others

2011-01-06T18:22:00.002-06:00

This is day 25, and yes, everything is still going well! New food, great exercise, and changing my life around feels WONDERFUL! However, you all know that already! If you've read even a couple of my posts you know I'm always trying to find something new.

Well, I decided to take a step back today and look at WHO inspires me. A dear friend of mine made a comment on my facebook the other day saying how this blog inspires her, and I'm not gonna lie, that made every single day of hell worth it! While I haven't changed the world with this blog, there are a few people who inspire me! I think every person has a hero and I'd like to share with you a couple of mine.

Besides the obvious women in my life, my mom, my sister, my aunts, etc, there's one woman in History who, every time she opened her mouth, inspiration came pouring out! Eleanor Roosevelt was the definition of strong! She went through Hell and back with her husband, however, in history, she's not known only as "the first lady," no, she IS Eleanor Roosevelt. Starting from a young age, she was a world traveler. Even in marriage she went against what people thought was "right." Even with the public saying it wasn't right, Eleanor kept on her own political agenda. She was active in the African American civil rights, she was active in world relations, creating peace among the other countries. In 1945, she was appointed to the United Nations by Harry S. Truman. She spoke out actively against many popular political beliefs. I could go on, and on, and on about how she held her own among everyone! I'll let her do the speaking:

"A woman is like a tea bag - you can't tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water."
"Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people."
"Have convictions. Be friendly. Stick to your beliefs as they stick to theirs. Work as hard as they do."
"I think that somehow, we learn who we really are and then live with that decision."
"It is not fair to ask of others what you are not willing to do yourself."
"We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face... we must do that which we think we cannot. "

My next inspiration is John Wooden. While he isn't in the history books, what he has done that inspires me, is his outlook on leadership. While the U of MN blew their chances with him, Wooden was a coach at UCLA and won 10 championships in 12 years! Impressive? Yes, but even more was taking his ideals from the court to the real world. When Wooden graduated from grammar school, his father gave him a 7 point creed:

Be true to yourself.
Make each day your masterpiece.
Help others.
Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible.
Make friendship a fine art.
Build a shelter against a rainy day.
Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day

Also among Wooden's legacy is his pyramid of success. It was his theory that he used both on and off the court:

My dad introduced me to Wooden and his philosophies. Ever since I learned about him, I've done nothing but want to learn more. In an article following his death, Kareen Abdul-Jabar was quoted:

"There “was no ranting and raving, no histrionics or theatrics.” He continued: “To lead the way Coach Wooden led takes a tremendous amount of faith. He was almost mystical in his approach, yet that approach only strengthened our confidence. Coach Wooden enjoyed winning, but he did not put winning above everything. He was more concerned that we became successful as human beings, that we earned our degrees, that we learned to make the right choices as adults and as parents.

“In essence,” Abdul-Jabbar concluded, “he was preparing us for life.”"

And FINALLY, but certainly not last, is my unsung hero, Tony Dungy. Many of you know him as the man who does Monday Night NFL commentary. Some of you may remember his coaching days in Minnesota, then to Tampa Bay, then onto the Colts, where he finally got his Super Bowl ring.

I however, know him as not only a GREAT coach whose players respected him, but, as he put it, a teacher who always put his family and faith above any game. This man was a football miracle. Any team he touched transformed, yet he always knew where his priorities lay. He has the philosophy that it took a whole team to win, so while he had his starters, he trained the 33rd player on the team just the same as the 1st. What a philosophy for life. Teamwork has to be equal!

Tony's personal life is one we all should admire as well. Even with losing his son, Tony has dedicated his life to helping everyone. From starting charities in Tampa to simply giving his time to Big Brothers/Big Sisters, he once considered leaving football to focus on prison ministries.

He's a quiet man who will never go into our history books, however, he's a man of convictions. He stands up for what he believes in, no matter the popularity. I know there are many like this, but there are very few people who give as much of themselves as Tony Dungy.

So folks, those are my top three heroes. Odd mix, I know, however all three strong leaders in their own rights. As a future officer it's important to take the lessons they teach me onto the Army. Why change what is already right?

In closing, what I learned from each:

Eleanor Roosevelt: Don't take crap from anyone!! Know that, even as a woman, I am one hell of a leader!

John Wooden: Be true to yourself and be loyal. No matter the situation give it your all, and do your absolute best!!

Tony Dungy: Give to others. You have a lot of life and a lot of love, you can spare some of the love and share it with everyone. No one is past the hopeless point!

Days 27 & 26

2011-01-05T19:39:00.000-06:00

Well there seems to have been a huge change between today and yesterday!! Yesterday felt a little bit like Hell, I won't lie to you. Cravings were bad, I was house sitting, so options were limited and I felt like I just couldn't do it!! Everything tasted like cardboard and there was a time (yes, already) when I was convincing myself doing something else would be just as good!!

I got through the day, and finally got back to bootcamp this morning!! It felt SOO good! Today was the day where I realized, this diet can be fun!! For the first two days, all I did was chicken with seasoning, veggies, and rice or noodles...BORING! I was terrified that THIS is what the month was gonna be like! Well after talking this morning, doing some more looking around, some playing with food, I've discovered a lot of fun new things! They aren't anything special, but they are going to make these next 25 days SO much easier!

I've been making some great things that even Colin loves!! I was thinking as I was cooking today, it's been so long since my kitchen has smelled like anything other than take out! I missed having my fridge filled with veggies and good food and tasting the food that I made! I'm a thinkin' this will be a trend to continue on after the 28 days concluded!

So that's pretty much all I have for these two days! No weigh in or anything yet, but I'll keep everyone updated! :)

Day 28- The start of something new.

2011-01-03T20:14:00.000-06:00

Well, today was the first day of my diet and it went really well!! The thing that's gonna be hardest is finding new ways to cook chicken...oi vey! I know I can have other goodies, but chicken is cheap and really dang easy! Today's biggest victory: making home made salsa!! Today's failure: I didn't exercise! To be fair, I still have my cold, however, I'm so getting up tomorrow a.m. to head to bootcamp! I didn't get all the pictures of my goodies, but here's a sample of my food day:

The first: egg whites and oatmeal!

Chicken, lots of veggies and wheat rice noodles!

Chicken, veggies, and garlic with onion potatoes

The start of the salsa

Egg whites with homemade salsa!!

So that's just a snip-it of my day!! Pretty nice, eh? Yeah, it shouldn't be too hard! I'm really excited to see where this leads me! :) Until tomorrow home slices!

Countdown begins in 12 hours: 28

2011-01-02T19:30:00.000-06:00

Because I like to, I'm going to start this countdown tomorrow, starting at day 28!

So tomorrow is the first day of the 28 day cleanse, and I must say, I am super-duper nervous now!! I've never been one to stay on track 24/7, and being I have the worst sweet tooth in the world, it's gonna be hard! The one thing that's different this time than last, is my support group has grown!! I am so excited for this! I am just going to take it, one day at a time, quite literally!

As I'm doing this countdown here, I purchased "The Biggest Loser" calendar, I'm also doing the countdown on there!! It makes it easy when you can see the end! Man, just think of how fast this past year went, what's one measly little month, eh? I can't believe Colin has been home 11 months already!! Jebus, almost a year!! It just goes!! So, what's 1/12th of a year? (And by the way, it's not even a full month, it's only 28 days!! 4 of those days, I get a cheat day!!)

So, the bad thing about starting tomorrow, is I'm fighting a cold at the same time! Really scared about this one. A vital part of the diet, as any diet, is exercise. I can barely walk up stairs right now without being out of breath, let's not mention getting my heart rate up to 185!!! Well, I'll play that one by ear!

So, I'm gonna head to bed and really get some sleep, hopefully kick this cold in the face!!

Obligatory 01 January Blog

2011-01-01T11:08:00.000-06:00

So I'm chillin' here in my new Twins Snuggie and thought to myself, what kind of dieter/blogger would I be if I didn't do that first of the year, new year, new change, obligatory blog!? FIRST, I think to look to the future, taking a quick look at the past is necessary.

2010 was a year of major ups and downs for all my family. For me and Colin it was good for the most part. He came home from Iraq, and while I'm SOOO happy he's home with me, man did that boy mess up my diet! When he came home, we went to Disney World for our honeymoon, which was the start of the fall! Okay, it's easy to blame him, 'cus he's obviously the varying factor, but I'm blaming me too. My weight went up and down, up and down! Sucky, I know! So many opportunities to blow it, and I did!

So, now it's 2011 which means a whole new start! New diet starting on Monday, a whole new exercise outlook, possibly a new full time job (for the meantime) Colin achieving his goals by going AGR and me getting the heck out of dodge!!

I'm seeing really good things for 2011! I hope you all take advantage of this and start a whole new adventure, too!!

"We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day." ~Edith Lovejoy Pierce

Accessories to the top

2010-12-30T20:11:00.000-06:00

I think part of what will make these next 28 successful is the accessories that go along with it all! Besides the support of all you wonderful people, sometimes it takes that couple extra "oomfs" to get it all to the top! Well, here are going to be my little minions on this journey:

NO, silly, not that kind of minion...although it would be awesome! :)

The first of my accessories is my "always fresh" containers. These will keep my freshly cut veggies easy at hand, so I can grab and go!!

The next wonderful handy tool is my Britta Water Filter, in the fancy green, I may add! My goal is to have to fill this up every single day, maybe two or three times if need be!

George Forman, in the world of convenience, this thing is a master. Cooks all around in about 5 minutes! Chicken, fish, turkey...watch out!!

OOO, nothing makes me want to get up and exercise more than new stylin' kicks!! My fancy new, childrens size 5, Zig Techs are pretty much amazing! SO comfortable and is so much easier on the joints than regular shoes! Thank you Reebok!

The sign I see as I leave the door and head into the world! Wise words! Attempt to do what you think you can't...you'll be surprised!

Even just leaving the bedroom takes that first step!

One thing I have to do now, is learn to really cook with spices. I know my garlic, basil and a few others, but this will be an amazing opportunity to try it out! Who wants dinner??

I am not an advocate of pills, however, these are amazing!!! One is is thyroid enhancer, one helps me sleep and the other is more of a caffeine energizer. I used these in the past, and I LOVE them!! Add it on top of all these other factors, I'll be unstoppable!!

So, there are just a few of the many accessories that are gonna help along the way! Only 2 more days then it officially begins!!

4 days, and counting- D DAY

2010-12-29T11:21:00.000-06:00

If you're wondering, no I'm not going to be storming any beaches, D-Day stands for, in the diet world "DO-IT" day! It's the day that will begin it all again! D-day is when I am starting my transformation from casual diet, to do it or die, diet!

Let me back up a bit. Starting Sunday, Colin and I are doing a 28 day cleanse together. You may remember that from previous blogs. However, not only that, we're both going to start hard core workouts. Colin has the opportunity to go AGR, to do so, however, he needs a recent passed PT test on his record. Well, his unit sucks and they haven't given one since his deployment! He takes one in February, and as long as he passes that, we'll be an AGR family!

As for me, well, you guys know my goals. I've decided to...reduce it a bit. My goal is 30 pounds by April 15. That's about 17 weeks, so a little less than 2 pounds a week!! Like I said...D-day!! To prepare ourselves for this event, Colin and I took some drastic measures!! We are starting ALL over. We're cleaning out all our old food, we gave a ton to food shelves, and setting up "goals" all over the apartment, to constantly remind ourselves what we're doing this for. Here are just a couple examples of our doings:

These shelves used to be filled with cereal, pastas, and just about an processed food possible:

We also got rid of a lot of baking goods, like bad oils, syrups, etc, and now we're going to stock with LOTS of spices and goodies!!

Oh baron fridge, you shall soon be stocked with chicken and turkey, white fishes and lots of colorful veggies!!

And finally, this is MY personal motivation! I carry this everywhere to remind myself WHY I'm doing what I'm doing!! Looks good, doesn't it??

Well, this is just the begining. I am gonna do my best to blog each day about this 28 day challenge, with the struggles and the successes. Let's hope for more successes!! :)

New year, new me!

2010-12-26T13:52:00.002-06:00

I took the first steps today in changing me, my habits, and finally reaching my goals!

My bootcamp class is doing a 28 day challenge starting 02 January. I am SO excited, and I'm not 100% sure what it's about, because it is a special designed challenge for those who are up for the hard journey! I'm not gonna lie, I don't know ALL the details yet, but that's half the fun!

Well, to get in the right spirit, I cleaned out EVERYTHING I know I won't be able to eat on this thing. I realized with this venture, that my habits may have not been the best. I have never seen my fridge and cabinets SO empty! It's refreshing in a way. It's like, not only is the year going to be new, but I'm going to have new food, and another new outlook!

My theory is, why not, right? 2011 brings me an excuse to be able to start all over, and I'm quite pumped! Let's hope 2 weeks into this thing, when I am in MAJOR sugar withdrawal, I still have a positive attitude! :)

12 Days of Fitness...

2010-12-22T13:05:00.000-06:00

While bored at work, I thought I would put a special spin on the 12 Days of Christmas...maybe we can give this a shot together! Merry Christmas Everyone!!!

On the first day of Christmas my trainer gave to me a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells.

On the second day of Christmas my trainer gave to me two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells

On the third day of Christmas my trainer gave to me three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells

On the fourth day of Christmas my trainer gave to me four sore muscles hurting, three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells

On the fifth day of Christmas my trainer gave to me 5 pounds of PROTEIN, four sore muscles hurting, three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells

On the sixth day of Christmas my trainer gave to me six tight abs showing, 5 pounds of PROTEIN, four sore muscles hurting, three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells

On the seventh day of Christmas my trainer gave to me seven killer circuits, six tight abs showing, 5 pounds of PROTEIN, four sore muscles hurting, three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells.

On the eight day of Christmas my trainer gave to me eight minutes resting, seven killer circuits, six tight abs showing, 5 pounds of PROTEIN, four sore muscles hurting, three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells.

On the ninth day of Christmas my trainer gave to me 9 sprints a sprinting, eight minutes resting, seven killer circuits, six tight abs showing, 5 pounds of PROTEIN, four sore muscles hurting, three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells.

On the tenth day of Christmas my trainer gave to me ten loads for lifting, 9 sprints a sprinting, eight minutes resting, seven killer circuits, six tight abs showing, 5 pounds of PROTEIN, four sore muscles hurting, three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells.

On the eleventh day of Christmas my trainer gave to me eleven sizes smaller, ten loads for lifting, 9 sprints a sprinting, eight minutes resting, seven killer circuits, six tight abs showing, 5 pounds of PROTEIN, four sore muscles hurting, three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping and a pair of blue 10 pound dumbbells.

On the twelfth day of Christmas my trainer gave to me twelve drinks of water, eleven sizes smaller, ten loads for lifting, 9 sprints a sprinting, eight minutes resting, seven killer circuits, six tight abs showing, 5 pounds of PROTEIN, four sore muscles hurting, three sets of lunges, two jump ropes jumping AND A PAIR OF BLUE 10 POUND DUUUUUMMMMMBBELLLLLLLLLLSSSS!!!!!

Support

2010-12-10T23:33:00.000-06:00

I finally figured it out!! For the last month, I've been picking my brain trying to figure out, why am I struggling SO much now, versus when Colin was gone??

Well, I FINALLY figured it out! When Colin was gone, I was at Golds Gym every single day!! It was wonderful! I got to see the people that really knew what I was going through, and kept me on track starting every morning!

When Golds closed, I didn't really have anyone keeping me honest. I did the workouts, but I didn't have someone saying once a week "let's step on the scale and really see how you're doing!"

When I did Weight Watchers the first time, that's also what kept me honest! Every week someone was like "umm, Cara, did we fall off the bandwagon this week?" "Why yes scary Weight Watchers lady, I did indulge in that chocolate lava cake...BUT I SHARED IT!!"

Well, you remember that boot camp class I told you about? Well I am SOOOO excited, because I get to weigh in now, and I have that someone reminding me every week that I need to be watching every bite! It sucks to have to be SO dang picky, but it works my friends, and if I want to reach that goal, I know what I have to do!

Well, starting January 3rd, Colin and I are cracking down and going HARD CORE diet!! I don't have all the details yet, but with Colin in ROTC, and my goal of OCS, I tell ya, we're going to have Army plastered all over this dang apartment. We have to remind ourselves EVERY day!!

This is a brand new year coming up, and it's going to be a whole new start! Ya just gotta love the New Year, eh?

"Do not dismantle the house, but look at each brick, and replace those which appear to be broken, which no longer support the structure." Neale Donald Walsch

Turkey, cranberries, pie...and sweat pants!!

2010-11-24T13:47:00.000-06:00

Holy buckets people, Thanksgiving is TOMORROW! Tomorrow is a day where we sit with friends and family and realize how dang lucky we are! How lucky we are to have a roof over our heads, a little cash in the bank, family to love, friends who care so much, and how THANKFUL we are...for sweat pants!!

Yes folks, while we all love the shopping and beautiful snow, the twinkling lights, our diets HATE this time of year. Every week is another holiday party which means Christmas cookies and all the buttery glory of desserts and appetizers!

So my personal goal this holiday season, is not only to lose weight but really practice restraint!! I've been challenged my doughnuts three times in one week (Yeah, that's just mean, I know!) so one month shouldn't be that hard, right??!! So this holiday season, I am not going to give into my yuletide cravings, and I will say "No thank you!"

Try it this year! I'm not saying not to eat your holiday favorites, but practice some restraint. YOU CAN DO IT!

Happy Holidays my friends!! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and be thankful for everything you have, and the opportunities we have all laying in front of us!!

Everyday is an uphill battle

2010-11-22T15:46:00.000-06:00

I know this is a common trend, but when it's something that is constantly on your mind, you can't help but blog about it! :)

In my year and 9 months of doing this diet thing, I think one of the biggest things I haven't learned is that all good things take time!! When I try something new I'm SO good for a week or two then if I don't see what I want I just want to quit!! I think everything is going to be the next miracle thing! It's going to make it go away over night!

Mentally I know it takes time, but tell my body that!! There is just something so dang frustrating. Every day I have to tell myself "this is just another day!" Easier said than done, yes, but at this point really, what choice do I have?

My goal is to get into the U.S. Army, and to do so, I have to lose inches and/or weight. There's no candy coating (Mm, candy coating!! NO CARA, NO!!) I have the most amazing people in my corner, and I have the tools I need to get to this! Okay, yes it's taking a little longer than I thought, but I'm not giving it up!! Keep on truckin'!!

Thanks for letting me ramble! :)

Update central, back on track 9!

2010-11-18T14:24:00.000-06:00

Well, I got yelled at today by a certain someong (eh hem..mother!) to update my blog, because well, obviously it has been a since!

Well where do I begin? I got the job I was aiming for and I started this week! Working 3 jobs for one week I realized, hey, two jobs is plenty for now, so I'm taking a break from Huntington! I'll miss the kids, but Colin and I need SOME time together! I know, over rated, right? Pa-shaw!

As for the diet, you guys caught me on a great day! I am started a new diet plan! Now I'm sure you're saying "Cara...AGAIN!?" Well, to you I say, yes, again, another one!!

Before you go all diet hatin' crazy on me, let me give you the back story! You remember the week from Hell, right? (If not, why not? You should be reading my blog...*sigh!*) Anyway, so one of my bad week turn arounds, was the discovery of this boot camp class I've been going to for 2 weeks now. I must say folks, I'm being pushed harder now than I have in a long, LONG time!! Probably since I started working with Norman the first time, is how it feels. I mean heck, I wake up, and I hurt...it's AWESOME! Anywho, when you sign up for this amazing boot camp, you also get help with your diet. I think, it's not said, but I think, doing the two together will get great results!!

This new diet is a lot of protein, A LOT of protein! What makes it different though, is it incorporates everything you need to lose! It's gonna be hard at first, 'cus I freakin' love my Lucky Charms, but then again, when has anything great ever been easy??

On the Colin home front, he's officially joining ROTC next month, so because of that, he's non-deployable for at least 2 years!! How awesome is that?! I know, right? I did the math, and 6 years ago yesterday, Colin and I went on our first date. Then doing more math, I figured out, that out of the 6 years we've been together, physically we've only spent about 3 together. But, we've made it this far, and I think there's no turning back! :)

So, as you can see folks, at this point, things are really starting to get back on track! Life is spiffy and I'm feeling good about it all!

P.S. If you're wondering about the "back on track 9" thing in my title, well, Ihave no idea...it just sounded more catchy than "Update Central!" :)

"Never Never Never Give Up"

2010-11-05T14:20:00.000-05:00

I think you could classify THIS week, as a pure week from Hell. Monday, my student canceled, so I was supposed to have a 3 hour shift, I got one. I went to the dentist to fix my wisdom teeth instead of getting them pulled, and found out I had to get them pulled anyway! This of course was AFTER they drilled all four of them! I got scammed out of $1800 (and the bank won't help out AT ALL!) My little lizard, Tiny, passed away. And best yet, I went to the recruiter to find out, I lost weight, I lost inches in my hips, neck AND waste, but according to their system I GAINED BODY FAT!! Why? Simply because I lost weight in my neck! UGH!!

So as you can see, just...bad! Well, of course on Facebook we all share everything! Life has no secrets. As I posted my Army results I had one person leave a message simply saying "That sucks, I guess it's not meant to be." Well, that got me thinking....a lot! Why haven't I quit? If people quit everytime things got hard, where would the world be? And is it really that easy for people to quit on things?

I don't know about you, but my parents always taught me to not quit, and when things got hard to keep pressing on. I think there's something to the saying, what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger. The odds feel like they're constantly building up against me, but who cares!? The sun came up today and odds are, it will tomorrow too. If I let one thing keep me down, 10 years from now, what am I going to tell my children? "Well kids, mom had a dream, but because things got hard, she quit!" Umm, no.

Since I've been young, I've prided myself on getting back on the horse and very quickly. So, I had my 10 minutes of feeling sorry for myself, but now I've turned it all around again!

On a strict VERY LOW carb diet, doing a hard core bootcamp 3 days a week at 5:45 am on top of an hour of cardio 6 days a week. I now might have another job, making it 3, to help make up some lost funds that were stolen and taken away at Huntington. And as for my Tiny, well he's up chasing cricketts with Willy and Lilly! So yeah, things got hard, but if you sit and mope around, nothing is gonna happen!

My advice to anyone out there who is going through a hard time, just get over it! What good is it to sit and feel sorry? Well, it's no good!

So onto the next chapter my friends! It's too early to quit...it's always too early to quit!

Good times, bad times. Good friends, better friends.

2010-10-26T11:18:00.000-05:00

When I was working out today, I realized this whole workout/diet/joining the military thing, has been the biggest ride of my life thus far! It's been a year and 8 months, and I'm STILL going! A lot of the reason I'm still able to keep on, is because of the strong people I have in my life!!

The biggest and one of the most influential all my friends who have stood by me through anything and everything!! They've been there when I was fat, and they'll be there when I'm fit. Diets can make people moody, yeah, but they've been there when I was grumpy as hell and when I got over it, they didn't resent me! (Believe me, I know I've been moody, and cranky! You go 6 months without a bite of real pizza, and we'll see how thrilled you are!) The best of the best have proven to me who will always stay by my side! There were times when I just wanted to hide from the world, and they hid right next to me, then got my butt out the door! The true friends are the ones there when it's the hardest to be a friend!

Then I have people in my life who, when it's convenient, they'll be a friend. When it's time for their life to say it's okay to be a friend, they will. And that's fine, we all know people in our lives like that. Not every person who comes into our lives will stay there! It happens, and we can't expect every person on our Facebook to be our kins for life!!

Friendship is a two way road, and to those friends who have been and will stay in my life, I would do anything for you guys!! You guys motivate me every single day, to get up, to live life to the fullest and keep reaching my goals! And I hope you all know that the day you reach yours, I'm gonna be there for you too! Whether it's graduating from college or bootcamp. Whether it's celebrating marriages or births, you're never getting rid of me! :)

“Keep away from those who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you believe that you too can become great.”
- Mark Twain

Is your kitchen making you fat?

2010-10-25T10:58:00.000-05:00

I was looking through Yahoo today, and found this very interesting article. Changing habbits around you makes all the difference in the world. Here are a few helpful tips that might catch your fancy:

"Dim the lights. Bright lights can raise your stress levels, ramping up your appetite and causing you to eat more quickly, according to research by Brian Wansink, Ph.D., director of the Cornell University Food and Brand Lab in Ithaca, New York. The result: You end up finishing off a mega portion before you have the chance to feel satiated (it takes about 20 minutes for your stomach to signal your brain that it’s full). For the best lighting over your kitchen table, swap your light switch for a dimmer.

Add a bouquet. A whiff of flowers may keep you from overindulging at supper. Smelling something inconsistent with what’s on your plate dampens your appetite, research shows. In another study by Wansink, people who were served plain oatmeal scented with apple and cinnamon ate more than those given oatmeal that smelled like macaroni and cheese. OK, no need for unappetizing combinations, but some slight sensory confusion—a fresh bouquet or a scented candle—might help you limit portions.

Use smaller bowls and spoons. We match our portions to our dinnerware. “A half cup of ice cream looks good in an 8-ounce bowl but wimpy in a 16-ounce one,” Wansink says. Size even fools the pros: When Wansink gave food experts bigger bowls, they ate 31 percent more ice cream; given bigger serving spoons, they ate 15 percent more. You don’t have to invest in a whole new set of dishes and cutlery (unless you’re in the mood to update your pattern, of course!); try setting the table with salad plates and spoons instead of dinner-sized ones.

Conceal your leftovers. You skipped that last slice of pizza to save calories, but every time you open the fridge, it calls your name. (OK, this is me and it’s calling my name!) Don’t set yourself up for temptation: Stash the slice in a fridge drawer or wrap it in foil to help you resist it until it’s mealtime again.

Leave dinner behind. Serving food family-style at the table makes you more likely to take seconds (or thirds). Sidestep that tendency by serving yourself before you sit down and leaving what’s left on the counter. In preliminary research, Wansink found that women who plated their food at the counter ate 10 percent less than those who ate family-style. One exception: Keep salad on the table—multiple helpings of healthy greens is never a bad idea!"

It's the small things

2010-10-24T11:29:00.000-05:00

Since Colin has been home from his deployment I've gone down hill. I stopped REALLY counting. It was more of an estimate as to how many calories. Turned out it was getting towards the 2000 plus side. My clothes were starting to not fit quite right but I thought it was just 'cus of bloating...for 6 months. I was making just about every excuse I could think of.

Then something just clicked! Maybe it was joining a new gym, maybe it was the looming end of money matters. I have no idea, but for the last month I have been going hard core! Well, honestly, since the surgery I have been pushing myself to new limits!! I've been going to bed early and getting up MUCH earlier. In that time, I workout for an hour and half, take my pups for a walk, and get all my daily affairs in order. All of this before I ever used to even wake up.

Life has done a complete 180! In this last month, my weight has started going back down! It's ALMOST to the point to where I was when I greeted Colin (yeah, I gained about 20 pounds since he's been home) I'm back down to my size 8 pants, and there's even wiggle room!! I've lost 2 inches in my waist and losing quickly in my hips (Oh those blasted hips!!) And even better, I'm feeling so confident I'm almost ready to take a step back into the recruiters office!!

They aren't major accomplishments, it's simply getting back into the mindset as to where I was before, but that part is huge. With this renewed sense of dedication, it's merely a small amount of time until I get to that final step...FINALLY!!!

Giving Thanks

2010-10-11T21:42:00.000-05:00

In the last two days, it seems like Thanksgiving has been a constant theme. Canada got to celebrate their turkey day, and yeah, I actually went back to church on Sunday! (p.s. I think I'm going to go more again!) Anyway, in his sermon our pastor said people who are greatful everyday have less stress, sleep better, and are just generally happier!! So, taking his advice, I am going to start a "great, full journal" aka, a journal full of things that are great in my life!!

So here my friends, is why I, Cara Ann, am greatful:
- I am married to a WONDERFUL man
- I have 2 parents who will help me with anything and listen to whatever problem I may have
- My friends are just amazing!!! I have SEVERAL girlfriends who I would give my life for, and after college, I never thought I would find that again!!
- I have a roof over my head, food in my belly and just a couple bucks in my wallet, enough for an ice cream cone at DQ!
- I get to cuddle with two wonderful puppies every single night!
- There are people all over the world cheering me on to my road to get to OCS.
- I have a body where I can be active, and run and jump and do anything I want!

Ya know, I could keep going and going about how greatful I am for everything, but I think Mr. Bing Crosby can say it better than I ever could:

So remember, count your blessings tonight, and know that I am including all of you in my counting of my blessings!

Bullies

2010-10-05T11:50:00.000-05:00

As I was working out today I was watching Ellen. With the recent spikes of teen suicides lately, due to bullying, she has been on a kick of trying to inspire kids to be able to rise above what they've been going through! If you haven't seen the video, I highly suggest you watching it:

Ellen on Bullying

With all of this that has been happening, I can't help but think about what life was like when I was younger. Sure, we all were teased, but there are some of us who got more of the brunt than others. I remember my experience starting in kindergarten. I was at a daycare, a place where a kid is supposed to feel safe and feel welcome. Well I felt neither at this place. The owner had a daughter who harassed me to no extent. She did things that are beyond illegal, and I'm happy to say the woman lost her license. While yeah, she lost it, I STILL think about what Annie did to me (yup, I still remember her name, and her face, and if she walked into a room right now, I promise you, her face wouldn't look the same as when she got in!) She gave me a wound that no matter what I do, it will never leave me!!

With that being the start of my school career, we'll say my school career was less than desirable. I had very few friends in elementary school, I was a social outcast. People would make fun of anything I did, whether it was what I was wearing, or eating at lunch. Maybe it was how I ran or answering wrong questions. With how I felt, it led to a lot of emotional eating, WHICH, in turn led to a big weight gain.

Then I got into the dreaded middle school! LIFE...WAS....HELL!!!! I was a terrbile student, I was fat, ugly, gross, and I heard it every single day from SO many people! Yeah, I could name THEM too, but I won't! I remember so many times, coming home and never ever wanting to go back to school!! My first day of 8th grade, I remember coming off the bus bauling my eyes out, swearing I would never ever return!! Unfortunatly, I did!

Highschool, I found some friends, but again, there were so many times I had to walk down those long halls, by myself with people behind me, snickering and laughing and pointing! HIGH SCHOOL. Yeah, kids were just damn mean!!

Then college, this was meant to be a brand new start! FINALLY for the first time in my ENTIRE school career, I felt safe! I felt like I belonged!! I made some of my best friends, and I learned who I was! I learned that I was smart and people liked me! They were adults who knew how to treat others! It was amazing!

So basically, with all this rambling, what I'm tryin to say is, if you know someone who is being bullied, tell them it will be all right!! Life goes on, and the losers who were bullies are doing nothing in their lives, and we, the bullied, rise above it!

So to you bullies I had to deal with: THANK YOU!! Because of you I gained the confidence I needed and became a success in college! I have such a wonderful husband who loves me for everything I am and have to offer! I have the best family, and have 2 great dogs! Because of you, I have lost 70 pounds and continue to live MY dreams! I am going to be an Officer in the U.S. Army, and I get to see the world! And what are you doing? I'm betting still picking on the little guys! Well guys, have fun with that, I'm gonna go live a good life!! :)

Now what?

2010-09-17T15:57:00.000-05:00

Now that the surgery is done, what am I going to do next? It's amazing how long roads must go on before you actually reach a goal! I gotta say, it sucks! So, until I reach the point of signing, there are things that keep me motivated, such as finding people who I can model myself as a leader after. So the next couple blogs are going to be about leaders, and how they're going to make ME a better officer!!

I think one of the best leaders, and one of my dad's personal heroes, is John Wooden. He was the head coach at UCLA, and here's how he ended up there:

"UCLA had actually been his second choice for a coaching position in 1948. He had also been pursued for the head coaching position at the University of Minnesota, and it was his and his wife's desire to remain in the Midwest. But inclement weather in Minnesota prevented Wooden from receiving the scheduled phone offer from the Golden Gophers. Thinking that they had lost interest, Wooden accepted the head coaching job with the Bruins instead. Officials from the University of Minnesota contacted Wooden right after he accepted the position at UCLA, but he declined their offer because he had given his word to the Bruins"

Well, coach Wooden was one of a kind. He took no slack from even his star players! He coached a lot of greats through his career, and one thing I think they all would say, was not only was he a coach, but he was a mentor. Both on and off the court the players respected him, what he thought, and what he did!

Here are some really great John Wooden quotes, and let the man speak for himself! Here's what I want to take with me from his Basketball court, to my Army:

- A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment.

- Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.

- Consider the rights of others before your own feelings, and the feelings of others before your own rights.

- Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.

- Don't measure yourself by what you have accomplished, but by what you should have accomplished with your ability.

- If you're not making mistakes, then you're not doing anything. I'm positive that a doer makes mistakes.

- Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.

- Success is never final, failure is never fatal. It's courage that counts.

- Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.

and finally

- You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.

Surgery completed

2010-09-16T10:17:00.000-05:00

Well, so far so good!! I went into the office Tuesday morning and left mid afternoon. So...the procedure:

As I said, I went into the doc at 9:45 in the morning! I got in there, they took my weight and height. My blood pressure was high, so they gave me the happy drugs to try to get me to calm down!

So, eventually my blood pressure got down far enough, where they allowed to to proceed with the process! Well, the first thing that happened was they shot numbingness stuff in my lower stomach!! When I was numb, they cut a 4 little holes in the 4 corners of my abs. They first took a machine that looked like a long stick. All I could feel was the heat from it! Pretty much, the only other thing I felt on that part was it being moved around under my skin and above the muscle!! It was crazy! After that he took another long stick with a thick tube attached to the back of it! If you've ever gotten a tattoo, you know what the vibrating pen feels like. That's what this particular tube felt like. It was vibrating so fast, and as I looked up I could see the fat literally being sucked out of me, it was so COOL!! It was like this orangish color, mixed in with the red fluid numbing agent. Then they repeated it on my outer legs too. Between the two places they took out two really big tubes of fat!

Now it's time for the recovering period! I tell ya, this part is NOT fun! Imagine the worst bruising you have ever experienced, and times it by about 100!! Well first, I wasn't able to take any pain killers because every time I did, I threw up ANYTHING that was in my stomach. If there was nothing, dry heave-ho! Well, finally I was able to find something that I was able to take!! So, yesterday, I did absolutely nothing! I sat and watched more Ghost Whisperer as well as a lot of day time crap!

Today is another day better! I feel like I could actually go out and DO something...maybe! I must say though, while this is STILL a crazy emotional roller-coaster, I know this was the right decision! I know this is one of the final steps I NEEDED to take, before I make my final leap!

3 more sleeps 'till life begins again

2010-09-11T21:48:00.000-05:00

For the last year and a half, I've been workin' my butt off, quite literally. Well there are two parts of my body that don't ever want to budge, my lower abs and my outer thighs. I worked for over 2.5 months harder than I've worked before! My diet was perfect, my exercise was beyond strong. It included running 2-5 miles daily, working out with a trainer twice a week, and even attempting yoga!

When all was said and done, I was STUCK! My weight didn't go down a pound, I didn't lose a cm in circumference, my body was saying "Oh hells to the no girlfriend!!" I went to a doctor to see if they would be able to help, and I got nothing but a cold shoulder! Then I went to the skin rejuvenation clinic in Edina. After a very promising meeting, we set the date and it's quickly approaching!

I now officially only have 3 more sleeps until the surgery! This is going to be my life changing 7 hours!! It's a "simple" procedure, and I'll be on my feet the next day, back to exercising a week to a week and a half later! Ladies and gents, this (should) be my last step until signing my name on that dotted line!! I AM SO EXCITED!!! I'm not one to give up, so I like to think of this more as giving mother nature a boost! :)

Don't worry, I'll make sure to give you an update as soon as I can!! Thank you all SOO much for all your support this past year! It's gonna keep going, I know, but I could NEVER have done what I have without you!

I Still Love Lucy

2010-09-06T18:19:00.001-05:00

*nothing about weight loss, just thought I'd share bits and parts of my life!*

Since I was a wee little one, there's one show that has always been there for me whenever I was sick, or needed a laugh, or really just wanted GOOD television episode. I Love Lucy never fails to make me laugh! However, before I Love Lucy happened, life was not always easy for Lucille Ball herself! She was rejected constantly saying she didn't have what it takes, she wasn't funny and that she would never make it in show business!

There was something about Lucy I admired. I think it was her constant persistence to get into Ricky's show, or maybe it was the fact that no matter how mad they got at each other, Lucy and Ricky always loved each other in the end! Yeah, I know how the real marriage ended, but that doesn't matter, Lucy and Ricky always have been, and always will be in love!

In many ways I see Colin and myself in Lucy and Ricky! No, Colin isn't a latin band leader, conga drum player, although, sometimes I wonder about his English! (Oh, I'm just kidding!) However, we bicker, a lot and we argue about finances! I'm always getting in his business and he thinks that he's really the man of the house! ;) However, at the end of the day, we're more in love than when it began!

I Love Lucy is now syndicated in over 80 countries around the world, and remains one of the most popular shows of all time! I've always loved Lucy, and I think I always will! Her ever stubbornness is a good way to live life if you ask me! The moral she teaches me show after show:
"when life says no, figure out a way to get in the show anyway!"

So that, my dear friends, is why I Love Lucy! Now here are a few clips to get you through until the next time YOU get to love Lucy:

And really, who can forget Vitameatavegamin?

"Speed it up!!"

I think the BEST episodes are the ones out in California:

A teary tribute to Lucy, and why we all loved her!

and finally: The series finale farewell:

The beginning of the end...

2010-09-02T17:02:00.002-05:00

As far back as I recall, I have had weight problems! In kindergarten I remember having a conversation with some friends, announcing the fact that I was 60 pounds! The average girl weighs about 46 pounds at that age. Anyway, so it's been a problem!

I've always been self conscious, but it's never been the biggest concern of mine. That is until I decided I wanted to join the military. For the last year and a half I've been working with an amazing trainer! My diet has been really good! (Minus the State Fair visit!) However, for the last couple month, my size, my weight, NOTHING has budged!! My spirits have been very low, and there have been several times just wanted to quit!!

There are only 2 parts of my body that haven't budged. My hips, and my lower abs! About a month ago I had the unfortunate meeting with a doctor who REALLY wanted to make me quit! He was an ass, he didn't care, and he was wearing a gold chain with a lot of chest hair...yeah, ew! He looked a little bit like a doctor pimp!

Well, finally today I didn't go back to the doctor, but I went to a "skin rejuvenation clinic." I've known the doctors for sometime, they go to our church, but the minute I walked in I felt very comfortable! Everyone was welcoming, the atmosphere was calm, and the couch was comfy :)!

We went back to the room, and doctor number one was wonderful! She took a look at my "trouble areas" and learned about ME. About my past. About what I wanted and needed! Doctor number two came in (her husband) and was the same way! They cared about me as a person, not if a law suite was going to be brought upon them, which is what pimp doctor thought the WHOLE time!

This procedure is unique and wonderful! It's like liposuction, however they use lasers, not knifes! They make a tiny incision where they stick a small tube. On this tube is a laser and it goes in almost a windshield wiper motion. It MELTS the fat! Once they go through the whole thing, they simply suck it out! Because they use a heated laser, the laser also works are a skin tightener. So when the fat comes out, the skin slowly tightens and returns to normal!

A lot fewer complications, no real anesthetics needed, and I'm up and walking the next day! I get to start exercising merely one week later and my diet can stay constant!! PLUS, it's more cost effective!

Having the opportunity to do this, really makes things feel like they're falling into place! This is the last step of what I really need to accomplish my goals! THE ONLY thing standing in my way are these spots, and now, FINALLY, after a year and a half of working out and dieting, my goals will be here!

Of course I have to wait a couple months before full recovery, but the second I get the okay, I'm in that recruiters office, signing my name on that dotted line...

HOOAH!!!!!!!!!!

Find out most about the clinic and procedure!!

They're after me Lucky Charms

2010-08-04T19:49:00.000-05:00

I'm not a little leprechaun I know, but I do believe in lucky charms!

So many times people (or Colin) call me crazy for tossing salt over my shoulder when I spill it, or never saying "Oh we've got this in the bag" for any sport even when ahead by 20 points! I always knock on wood to not jinx something or if my nose itches, I know someone is thinking about me! I believe all this, I don't just do it 'cus it's cute (which of course it is) but I do it because I REALLY do believe in that stuff.

Maybe call me weird, but these last couple days have proven that I should believe in that stuff! About last March I took off my jade Buddha. I wore him the whole year Colin was gone through my weight loss. Well, we saw what I did when Colin was gone! Well, I thought keeping my lucky Buddha in the car would suffice. Come March, things just kinda started going down hill!

About a week and a half ago I was driving in the car where Buddha was hanging from my rear view mirror. I made the decision that he needed to be with me again! Since March, I've gained weight back, Colin was never able to get his VA funding, having one car was becoming the biggest hassle ever, and work was giving me no hours!!

Well, in the week and a half he's been with me, Colin got his VA money PLUS another month of rent and bill pay in grant money from the county, found a car that was originally $50,000 got it for under $8000, I've been getting twice the hours at work, and as for weight loss, we'll just say stay tuned after Friday for those results!!

I don't know what makes this particular necklace so special. I don't know why it brings me the luck that it does, all I know is that it does and if I could, this necklace would never leave my neck! I'm a firm believer in fate and I know that I found this guy for a reason, and I am SO glad I did!

Support in the corner

2010-07-09T10:03:00.000-05:00

It truly amazes me how many people are in my corner! I feel like everyday there is someone new cheering me on, wanting me to reach my goals!! My wonderful friends, my great parents, sister, aunts and uncles and cousins, of course all of you reading this!!

However there is one person who is always standing in my corner pouring water over my head when they keep trying to knock me down, my wonderful husband! When he was deployed this past year, that's when the majority of my weight loss happened. From 7000 miles away, he still was cheering me on constantly.

Now that he's home and off his orders, financially things are tough. However, somehow, when it comes to my goals, it seems like enough can't be done to help me! He's willing to give up so many of his pleasures, things that he wants, just 'cus there's something else I could try to lose this weight even faster! Whether it's getting a personal trainer, or trying some fandangled home workout equipment, or even some new pill that promises results! He thinks half the stuff I do is crazy (yes, he tells me he thinks it too!) but right after he says that he says "if it gives you the confidence you need to reach your goals, we'll find a way!"

I feel like I'm the modern day Lucy Ricardo. Everyday I come up with some new scheme to try to lose these inches (versus getting into Ricky's show!) However, at the end of the day, I know while Colin rolls his eyes at half the stuff I do, like Lucy and Ricky, it's gonna be happy ending!

5 Summer Workouts!

2010-06-27T10:02:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but running can get very mundane! Not only that, but if you keep doing the same workout time after time, your body will soon get very used to it and honestly, it just won't work anymore! Some think a summer stroll can count as a workout. While yes, it's better than sitting around, there are a few things you can do to really spice it up!

Kayaking:
Calories Burned: 340/hour
Benefits: Helps sculpt your upper body! Think of the rotating motion! The resistance of the water helps build shoulders, triceps, biceps, etc!

Hiking:
Calories Burned: 400/hour
Benefits: Cardio, cardio, cardio people! Hiking not only is a WONDERFUL cardio exercise it helps strengthen the leg muscles! Go grab a backpack, load it up, then grab a friend, a loved one or just your ipod, and hike away! Not sure where to start your hike? Check out this site and find a local trail!
http://www.trails.com/

Speedminton:
Calories Burned: 400/hour
Benefits: Now you may be saying, "WTF mate?!" Well, let me tell you! I had no idea what the heck it was! It's like tennis, badminton and racquetball! Rather than trying to explain it, here's some info for you to check out! It's a game for anyone anywhere!
http://www.speedmintonusa.com/

Cycling:
Calories Burned: 500-700/hour
Benefits: Tell me, what's better than jumping on a bike and touring around your own town?! Plus remember, cardio, cardio, cardio!! This helps build stronger legs which in turn can also help your running (Should you want to run!)

Rollerblading:
Calories Burned: 816/hour
Benefits: What I love about running is the fact that it sculpts your butt and thighs! What I love about rollerblading, it does the same thing without hurting your knees! Just go find a parking lot somewhere and do circles! You don't need to be a pro, just be willing to fall and get back up!

Well, there ya go folks! What's great about most of these, is the ability to do it alone or with a friend! So go find a workout buddy, whether it's human or ipod, and get going, together!

Pride in others

2010-06-23T18:21:00.002-05:00

Colin and I were chit-chatting today! I know, that's a great thing for a married couple to do, eh? We talked a lot about the pressure of succeeding! I have always put a ton of pressure on myself to succeed at everything I do. I keep thinking that if I don't succeed at everything I AM a failure!! What I always forget, is a lot of the succeeding in the end, is the journey to get there.

Part of the reason I've been doing this, including this blog, is to let others know, that no matter what their goal is they can accomplish it! I've heard from many people this past year how reading this has helped them! How it's helped make decisions that would have been difficult otherwise.

I've heard from a bunch of my family that since this journey, they too have started to get up and go more! Starting to make lifestyle changes and improve their situations for the better!

To these people who have been influenced, I am SOO proud of you all, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart!! When you guys email me or let me know how you're changing your lives, it honestly gives me a lump in my throat!! I love hearing about what you guys are doing and how you're changing things around! I'm a little bit like a proud mama!! :)

I know it sounds cheesy, but every time I go for a run, I'm thinking about all of you, and you're a major reason I keep going! You guys have inspired me to keep pushing on and to finally achieve what I started this to do!! Thank you all for standing beside me and helping me through all the ups and downs!!

As John Wooden stated in his last book "The journey is better than the end! Make each day of your journey a masterpiece!"

Discoveries of the heart

2010-06-19T23:46:00.000-05:00

So many times this past year I've been put in situations where I've had to stand up for myself! Before this journey ever began, I would slink into a corner and let people walk all over me! But since I've lost this weight and started getting fit and actually following my dreams, I feel like the world can't stop me!

Some people don't agree with the way I go about things, but my friends, it's sure been damn effective! I've discovered the people who will stand beside me no matter what and who is there when it's convenient. I've gotten to see people's true colors good and bad and I thank God everyday that I had the opportunity to do so!

I can't help that life goes on, with or without me! I've learned, people have lives, and, well, they don't revolve around me! I've learned to never apologize for what you feel is right, no matter how unpopular! I understand all this, simply because I know how life works now! I understand that people come and go, and I'm good with that! I know that life has up and downs, but the true friends will be on that cart flyin' down the hill with you shouting "OH HELLS TO THE YES!!"

So, to my dear friends and family members, thank you! Thank you for the support, and thank you ahead of time, because I know that no matter where the road leads me, your support is what gets me through! I may not get to talk to you all the time, or very often, but every time I do, you help me push on! Know that while I might not be here physically all the time, I am here in spirit and I love you all!

For the times when I'm not here, just remember these! Know that no matter what goes on, life is short, and you just have to enjoy it, no regrets!

"Maybe all one can do is hope to end up with right regrets." Arthur Millr

"Life is what we make it, always has been, always will be." Grandma Moses

"Don't go around saying the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing, it was here first!" Mark Twain

And finally, one of my favorite, and I think the most relevant for today and this past journey:

"In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life. IT GOES ON." Robert Frost

Two good men

2010-06-09T11:44:00.000-05:00

I'm not a religious person by any means. I think 80% of what the bible says is crap and honestly, pretty irrelevant for life today! I am however, a spiritual person! I believe that there is a god, and that Jesus died for us, and I do believe in heaven, and if you're a good person, when you die, you'll go there!

Now I'm sure you're saying "Cara, what the heck does this have to do with your weight loss?" Well, let me give you a little insight. Both my grandpas were in the Army, and both loved to serve! My dad's dad was also a police officer in Minneapolis and was a very respected man! My poppop, my mom's dad, was a Sgt. in WWII. If you know anything about ranks, an E-5 in WWII was not an easy rank to achieve! It was the equivalant of about an e-7 or e-8 today! He had to really prove himself in the ranks!

Unfortunately, neither of these two men are around anymore to help me with my journey. However, I am quite lucky because they are both burried at Ft. Snelling Cemetery (This is where the spiritual part comes into play!) When I'm struggling with weight, or motivation or just really need someone to listen (admit it, live people like to talk about themselves and very rarely like to listen!) I head to my thoughtful spots, one on a hill among many fallen heroes, and one in a field with the same company!

Sometimes when I go there I cry, sometimes I laugh, sometimes I talk, and sometimes I just sit. But whenever I go, the last thing I say to both of them is "Thanks again, let's keep on truckin!" I know that even if they aren't here physically, they are here spiritually. These two men help me get through the hardest of times!! They are my guardian angels! They are the reason I've done what I've done, they have guided me to the situations I've been in, THEY have helped make me stronger both physically and mentally and emotionally!

Sometimes though, like any human, I forget. I forget that they are with me wherever I go. However, the last 3 runs in a row, I've seen 2 morning doves. They aren't like regualr birds. Normally if a person got as close as I have each time, they'd fly away. These two sit on the sidewalk as I run by, and just watch. Maybe 2 feet away from them it's like they're waiting for me everytime!

This is my reminder that I am not in this struggle alone! There is a plan for me, and while I may not see it now, it is starting to unfold! It's not happening as quickly as I'd like, but like the doves sitting patiently and waiting for me each day, I know that I'll get there, just as long as my doves don't fly away!

How far will I go?

2010-06-08T13:54:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I don't know when to stop! I told Colin, when I join, on my uniform I want three things, a patch on my right sleeve, an infantry badge (or combat action badge) on my left breast, and a parachute right with it!! Also on my record, I'd like at least sharp shooter (gotta make my Poppop proud!!) I know a lot of people have all of those, but I don't, so I'd say I should get my rear in gear!

The thing is, I am a 25 year old white girl from Chanhassen Minnesota!! I'm not joining the military to sit behind a desk!! I know those jobs are important and keep everything running smoothly, but that's not me! If I wanted a desk job, I would have taken that business job right out of college, and would have a very cushy life right now! I would probably have a house with a white picket fence, 2.5 children and driving a little mini van. Okay, maybe not quite, but I'm telling you life would be A LOT easier!!

If you guys remember, at the beginning of this journey, I wanted to join the U.S. Marines. I'm not going to lie, there is a part of me that really wished I had never given up on that! However, a wise Colonel once told me "a branch is what you make it! You can be a hard core Soldier, and you can be a pansy Marine!" So, I'm taking his wise words, and running with that!! Why not try to be the best? As an Army officer, why not have the physical expectations of Marines, and the intelligence expectations of the Navy/Air Force?

I know most people who go into the Army don't have those points of view, but I like to lead by example! My point is, I have no idea where I'm going to end up! I know what I want to achieve, and so far so good. Sure, it's taking me a lot longer than I ever thought this was going to, but I'm not going to give up on this, and I tell ya, this is going to make me one of the best Army Officers you've seen!

Napoleon Bonaparte has a quote "Soldiers usually win battles, and generals take the credit for them!" In my mind, that's wrong, but I must say folks, ya'll better be able to keep up, 'cus I am not going to stop until I get to where we all need to be!!

For my Popppop:

What's Playing In My Head?

2010-06-02T21:38:00.000-05:00

Ya know those mornings when you just can't get your butt out of bed?! On mornings like today, cold and cloudy, I just didn't not want to move. I'm going to admit, I hit that snooze button once (or twice, but who is really counting?!)! Once I finally rolled out of my warm bed half awake, I have to listen to music to get going and get myself on the road.

Now some of you may be saying to yourself "gee Cara, just how DO you get yourself going? When you hit play on YOUR ipod, what comes on?!" Well you are in great luck my friends, I am here to give you some songs that motivate me! I hope some of these help you to get going! (P.S. if some of these links don't work, let me know!)

Fire It Up- The Unit's Theme Song

Have A Nice Day- Bon Jovi

Run This Town- Jay Z

Don't Stop Believin'-Journey (Don't laugh or I'll hurt you!)

After All- Saving Abel

Down- Jay Sean

Cartoon Heroes- Aqua

Hillbilly Bone- Blake Shelton

Rather than continuing, I think you get the idea!! These are songs, in my mind & body, get my blood flowing! So, if you need some inspiration getting up and going in the morning, make a playlist and get in the mood!! YOU CAN DO IT!!!

A few of my favorite things

2010-05-31T21:18:00.000-05:00

Okay, I've been yelled at the last couple days by a few people for not updating my blog, so I do apologize! We have a new puppy in our lives, so anyone with any new little ones will understand! So here is a quick update:

I have 6% to lose to join the Army...yeah, no problem! The first step I'm taking is a new running program. It's called "5k 101." I'll be able to run a 5k in merely 7 weeks with this program! Continuing right after this, I am going to do the program called "Hwy to 10K." I WILL be able to run a 10K by the time I go to bootcamp!

To help with this subtracting of 6%, I am on a high protein diet! I know I'm not going to make weight, and I've come to grips with that! So, it's time to focus on my nagging 6%! To do this, I searched high and low for the highest protein, best tasting food! Besides your typical salmon and chicken (which get dull VERY quickly) these are a few of my new snacking list! While they aren't the lowest calorie food, I highly recommend checking these out! They not only have great protein, they have vitamins and nutrients we neglect a lot while we diet!

Without further adue...

This yummy snack has a total of 20 grams of protein!! It will fill you up, and is so yummy!

This bread is amazing!! With 6 grams of protein PER SLICE, I had a grilled cheese lunch the other day with 39 grams of protein!!

Simple, convenient, yummy and pretty darn cheap!

Cottage cheese is so good with everything! One of the best summer snacks? Cottage cheese and tomatoes! Give it a try!

I have to thank my sister for introducing me to this: edamame! Simply, add a little salt, and boom, you have a protein packed appetizer!

It's simple. Fat Free. Tons of protein. Fantastic! Got Milk? (P.S. did you know, women who drink an 8 oz glass of milk after a workout lose MORE weight than those who drink a Poweraide or drink like that!?)

Don't have time for an egg white omelet in the morning? Grab a quick bowl of this! Nummy nummy!!

Finally, sometimes I just don't feel like cooking anything, so I whip this in a blender, toss in a few strawberries or bananas, and you have a great meal to go!! Low cal and high protein!!

So folks, this is my list! If you wonder how much protein to eat to gain lean muscle? Well, it should be about 1 gram of protein per pound! For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should eat 150 grams of protein! It sounds hard, but I promise, just take a few minutes look at a few labels and you can do it too!!

I promise I'll keep up on this more! Thanks all! Pictures of the puppies to come too! :)

My problem...

2010-05-19T20:47:00.001-05:00

Are you done with the jokes yet? Good, because I know you all could go on forever about what my problems are! Okay, do you know what my problem is when it comes to weight loss?

Here it is, I want it NOW! No, not now, I want it yesterday!! Let's back up a couple days, about a week actually. I went to the recruiters (I know ya'll read that blog!) and she told me what I had to lose/gain! Tonight I measured myself, and WTF mate, my inner curvy part of my midsection went up! WHAT?! Well, Colin measured me (I love him, but he can't tape females!) and I got frustrated once more!

I know it's not going to come off over night, but gosh do I want it to!!! I want to be able to walk into that recruiters tomorrow and say "sign me up!"

Psychologically, I know that can't happen, but emotionally I want nothing more at this point! I try to remember what I've done this past year but at times it's just not good enough! Ya know that feeling?? You want something so bad, but there's just one hurdle after another, and boom, you're at the last couple! You think, it's the light at the end, but just a little firefly! You look beyond, and there's a TINY speck that is the light!

Folks, I want to be at that light finally!! Sometimes is just doesn't seem fair! Physically I can do it all, but because I'm an inch too big (literally, an inch!) I can't do it!

So that, my friends, is my problem! I'll get there soon, I know I will, but man this ride is getting bumpy and quite narrow as we reach the top of this mountain!

(P.S. please excuse all the metaphors this go-round!)

Exercise...a few added bonuses!!

2010-05-14T22:41:00.001-05:00

Sure, working out is good for your health, but you might be surprised to learn a few other things!

Be Happier at Work. Exercise helps clear your mind, therefore allowing you to check a few more things off your to do list!

Improve Your Vocabulary. Exercisers who ran just two 3-minute sprints, with a 2-minute break in between, learned new words 20% faster than those who rested, in a University of Muenster in Germany study.

Get Natural Pain Relief. "It may seem counterintuitive, but rest isn't necessarily best for reducing pain and stiffness in the knees, shoulders, back, or neck. Healthy adults who did aerobic activity consistently had 25% less musculoskeletal pain than their couch-bound peers, says Stanford senior research scientist Bonnie Bruce, DrPH, MPH, RD."

Feel Sexy at Any Size. The simple act of exercising-regardless of your weight or fitness level-can make you feel positive about how you look, possibly due to the release of feel-good hormones!

Lower Dental Bills. Adults who did 30 minutes of moderate activity 5 or more times a week were 42% less likely to suffer from periodontitis, a gum disease that's more common as you get older. Working out may thwart periodontitis the same way it does heart disease--by lowering levels of inflammation-causing C-reactive protein in the blood.

Shrink Stress Fat. The waistline of those who worked out less expanded an average of 3 inches. Exercise may lower levels of hormones such as cortisol that promotes belly fat.

Slash Cold Risk 33%. Moderate exercise doesn't just rev your metabolism--it boosts your immune system, too, helping your body fight off cold bugs and other germs. Women ages 50 to 75 who did 45 minutes of cardio, 5 days a week, had a third as many colds as those who did once-weekly stretching sessions.

Improve Vision. What's good for your heart is good for your eyes. An active lifestyle can cut your risk of age-related macular degeneration by up to 70%.

Reach the Deep-Sleep Zone. Say good night to poor sleep. Women age 60 and older who walked or danced for at least an hour, four times a week, woke up half as often and slept an average 48 minutes more a night than sedentary women.

Never Get Diabetes. Walking 2 miles 5 times a week may be more effective at preventing diabetes than running nearly twice as much. Because fat is the primary fuel for moderate exercise, walking may better improve the body's ability to release insulin and control blood sugar.

Add Years to Your Life. Being physically fit can actually change how your body works. Vigorous exercisers have longer telomeres-cellular biomarkers that shorten as we age-compared with healthy adults who rarely work out.

So if you wern't inspired before, here are a few extra motivators for you to get up and go!! So head out and start enjoying this great summer weather!!

Out of all the bad habits, create a good one...

2010-05-13T12:25:00.000-05:00

This article was found on the Star Tribune website, and it's so true, the best way to exercise, is to make it a habit!

Make exercise one of your habits

Get rid of the excuses, and come up with a plan in which working out is not negotiable.

By MOLLY BELMONT, Albany (N.Y.) Times Union

You just got home from work and you're sitting on the couch, pondering your next move. "I should exercise," you think. But you don't feel like it.

You argue with yourself for a while and, finally, give in and click on the TV. This goes on for a few days, and suddenly it seems impossible to get back to your fitness regime. Why is this?
The sad fact is that it's easier not to exercise than to exercise, and once you've fallen off that exercise bike, it can be hard to get back on.

"They miss one day, and then they fall into their old habits again," says Jeanine Rutt, a personal trainer with a practice in Clifton Park, N.Y. Good habits take a long time to build, and in the beginning, you're particularly susceptible to returning to your old ways, she says.

Building good habits takes consistency, says Ben Luke, wellness director for the Albany and North Albany YMCA in Albany, N.Y. Start slowly, work out at least a few times a week, and build it into your routine, he advises.

But what if you're tired or you don't feel like going to the gym? Excuses not to work out are easy to find, Rutt says. The solution is to make exercise a non-negotiable part of your week. It doesn't matter if you're tired, stressed or busy; you still have to make time to exercise, she says.

"There's no easy answer," Rutt says. "Some people can do it and some people can't, and it really depends on how bad they want it."

Another big reason people fail is unrealistic exercise plans, Luke says. Some people are happier swimming, walking, taking a class or joining a basketball team. The secret is to find the activity that works for you.

When designing your exercise plan, think about what kind of help you might need. Some people are fine on their own, and some need supervision to stay on track, Rutt says. Having an exercise buddy or a personal trainer will help you stay focused and keep you accountable. Exercise logs and food journals are another way to keep yourself honest.

People also falter because of exercise burn-out, approaching exercise like a sprint instead of a long-distance run. The answer is to start with a small, manageable routine, Luke says. If the regime is too hard to accomplish, you won't stick with it.

Now that you know why you fell, it's time to get back in the exercise habit.
Make time. Once you've missed a day or two at the gym, other appointments suddenly crowd that slot and vie for your attention.
"People have to pencil in exercise, just like every other daily happening," says Joanne LeBel, aerobics director for Best Fitness Gym in Schenectady and Albany.

Let go of the guilt. Look at the big picture, Luke says. "I remember what someone once said to me: 'It's not that hard to get in shape; it's hard to stay in shape.'" It takes a lifetime, and odds are this won't be the only time you make a misstep.

Just do it. The hardest thing to do is to walk through the gym door or put on your sneakers and hit the pavement. Once you've done that, the rest is easier. That's because exercise feels good. It relieves stress and anxiety, and chances are you'll feel better than you would if you were sitting on the couch at home.

So get up and go people!! Let's make this our new habit!!

The Right Recruiter...

2010-05-11T20:05:00.000-05:00

I realized today, my excitement for the military radiates a lot through the people I surround myself with!

Approximately one week ago, I was ready to quit, I didn't WANT to, but I thought it was my only option! *FLASHBACK!* Walked into the recruiters office, phones ringing like crazy, no recruiter in site, and out comes the one female of the office, Sgt. Todd. So finally, 20 minutes after getting there, she comes strolling out and here is the conversation

Sgt Todd: "yes?"
Me: "I'm here to turn in the paper work Sgt. Morris requested!"
Sgt Todd: "What papers?"
Me: The ones I need for entrance to the Army
Sgt Todd: "have you been measured?"
Me: (standing in jeans, a football jersey, and 3 additional layers) "Um...no?"
Sgt. Todd: "Okay, come here"
Me: "huh?"
Sgt Todd: "well we're going to have to do it anyway!"
Me: "okay!"

We walk back to the bathroom so she can measure me (note: to get needed measurements, they take neck, waste and hips...yeah, great, huh!?) She takes MAYBE 2 minutes to do it. That includes weight that she made me do myself. She is supposed to weigh me, and double check measurements. I came out and Colin was like "that's it?!" So, she put my quick measurements into the computer and came out with a piece of paper..

Sgt Todd: "Here you go."
Me: "What does this mean?"
Sgt Todd: "You can't get in."

At this point, the only thought in my head was "WHAT THE F**K!?! I just spent a year plus getting into shape and you simply say I can't get in!?" Well, as I found out, it wasn't in my head, and apparently A LOT more came out too. I was PISSED to say the least!!

Well, with my typical 24 hour turn around, and some help from my wonderful facebook pals and a few kind texts and calls, my attitude was back on top!!

So I walked into a different recruiters office today. YES, the recruiter makes HUGE difference!! To be honest, the measurements were not a whole lot different, but their attitudes were above and beyond what I thought would be. They wanted to help, and they were excited to help, and they KNOW I'm going to get in, and look great on their resume! :)

Basically, what I learned from this whole experience, is I cannot let one stupid person get me down! I gotta take the bulls by the horns and not let anyone stop me, 'cus obviously, as we all see, there are some who will try. Bring um on!!

Some of these just don't belong...

2010-05-07T22:47:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had the feeling that things just aren't how they're supposed to be?? I'm sitting here tonight, cruising facebook, and something just doesn't feel right anymore. I don't long for a 9 to 5 job, I don't want to have a house with a white picket fence, I don't have 2.5 children and I really can't see myself in a mini-van, I don't want to vacuum with a string of pearls around my neck. If that's the life some choose, awesome, it's just not me, and it's not how I was raised! The life that I have tonight feels so temporary and it's starting to get me just a wee bit down!

Don't get me wrong, I love my friends, and my family, I love being an Army Wife, but I'm sick of it at the same time. I'm at the point where I have a knot in my stomach constantly, it won't go away!! You know that feeling, again I know I've said it, that it's just not right anymore.

I know this has NOTHING to do with my weight loss per-say, it's just things I need to get off my chest every once and a while! I know the people who are truly friends will still be here when I come back, and it's vice versa, but dude, it's time to move on for a while! Maybe 12 weeks away from everything is WHAT I need, so I guess it's time to kick it back up! I WILL get that 9% down and good luck to anyone who tries to stop me and tell me otherwise...

Thanks for listening to my random ramblings! :)

THUNDER THIGHS!

2010-04-30T11:21:00.000-05:00

Working out has become my zen time once again...finally! While all the ditzy house wives around me just make me roll my eyes, they also make me reflect on myself!

These women have 2.5 children, their husbands are the bread winners, they cook, they clean, and they look perfect!! If you haven't been able to tell folks, I am NO housewife!

What makes these women "perfect" in society's eyes is they are perfectly proportioned. I see them in their exercise bras and tight little spandex pants (or whatever the new Jane Fonda look is this season!) Then I take a look at myself! Big Army t-shirt, long men shorts past my knees, and sweat, a lot of it!

While these women should be proud of their "perfect by society's standards" selves (I'm sure genetics have NOTHING to do with that one!) I think, why should I not be proud of my flaws? After all, these flaws make me who I am!

Okay, they aren't flaws, per say, but they are things that make me not perfect. This particular area of my body...my THUNDER THIGHS! I tell ya people, my thighs are tree trunks! I can't buy normal female pants! I have to buy a size or two bigger!

Before today, I saw this as bad, and even ugly! Then I was sitting on a leg machine today looked at what I was lifting, saw the girl next to me (being the "perfect" type) and saw what she was lifting!! Folks, these thunder thighs of mine help me lift about 3 times what these perfect women lift!

Walking by the mirror into the locker room, I took another look. They're big, they're ugly and they are MY thunder thighs, and damn it...I am PROUD of them!!

Part of losing weight is not changing what's wrong, but improving on what's right!! Look in the mirror. What do you see as "ugly" and rather than changing yourself, change your mind first, the rest will come!

My Strength

2010-04-28T08:45:00.000-05:00

I realized this morning, as I was laying in bed thinking about the day, one of my biggest motivators, my hubby, Colin!

Since we pretty much started dating, Colin has always been a provider. Okay, since before we knew each other, Colin has always been a provider. Every story I ever heard about his child hood, were not the typical, we went to Disney World stories, like I got to tell! Colin's stories were more of a boy having to grow up very quickly!

When Colin was 17 years old he joined the U.S. Army, that was 1999. Two years later, 9/11 happened. While Colin was finally getting into a routine of school his unit, being one of the first out of Minnesota after the towers, was called to duty into Iraq. Colin was gone for 14 months. Since that time, a lot of unfortunate events occurred, things that never really allowed him to get to live a "normal" life. Including two more over sea deployments and a year of active duty at Ft. McCoy.

Now at 28, my husband FINALLY gets to go back to school! I am beyond proud of him!! He gets to get that degree that the Army decided to not allow him to get! I've heard some people say "Oh, he's in the Army, he doesn't need a degree!" There's more to degrees than just needing, it's actually accomplishing something great and knowing that someday you'll be able to look at your kids and say "Yes, I did go above and beyond what was needed!" (P.S. good luck getting much above an E-7 without a degree, even as an enlisted! :) )

However, one major factor of this degree was, how in sam hill are we going to pay for everything?? My job at Huntington sure isn't going to pay the bills, post 9/11 G.I. Bill is great, but it pays for rent, and that's about it! Finally, that's where I step in! FOR ONCE, I GET TO TAKE CARE OF COLIN!! For the last 5 years, Colin has been taking care of me! He is been the best provider, but now it's his turn to be taken care of! I think a marriage is a 2 way street, we both allow each other to live our dreams!!

With my joining, we both get to do something we've wanted to do!! I get to join the military, and Colin gets to finally go back to school! With his new found college bound self, he also is going to be hooking up with the ROTC! With his degree, he will also be getting his commission as a 2nd Lt! In civilian terms, as soon as he gets done with school, we're going to be the Bennefer or the Brangelina of the military!!

Watch out Army, the Raineys are coming in!!

Quiet Confidence

2010-04-22T21:53:00.001-05:00

When I was younger, younger I guess you could say being as little as 6 years ago, confidence was something I was lacking. It's still something I struggle with everyday. The last two months, I have been taking a mini break from the hard core diets and working out and really been focusing on my ASVAB studying. For those who are unaware, the ASVAB is the test all military members take to get into the military.

A little background for all of you. 7th grade, I literally had all F's going for me. I hated school, I was horrible at it! I had no organization, I was bad at getting my work in, I didn't try very hard, and last but certainly not least, I had MAJOR test anxiety!! I would get a test and start sweating and panicking!!

To make matters worse, everything I didn't have, brains and looks, I felt my sister did! This was my battle every single day!! I looked in the mirror and told myself "today Cara, you are going to fail!" I know, crazy right?

Studying these last two months, I've discovered something about myself! Not only am I good at working out, and will rock at bootcamp, but I'm not dumb! For the first time in 25 years, I have felt like I can accomplish something big!

So, maybe you're wondering why I entitled this blog "quiet confidence," well, let me tell you it's not just that I've been studying, but there is so much more to this test than just answering questions! It's walking into this exam KNOWING that I have the tools to accomplish what I need! And now I'm really starting to think and believe I can do it!!

I go to work, I talk to people, I experience life, and I see people who are cocky, which is much different than confident. They can be loud and express themselves, and believe it is confidence, but I believe TRUE confidence simply comes from within.

I get a kick out of quotes, and I believe at times, others can express what we're feeling, so here are a few of my favorites and I hope these will help give you confidence to follow your goals!!

Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent. ~Eleanor Roosevelt

Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them. ~Michael Jordan

Don't let anyone steal your dream. It's your dream, not theirs. ~Dan Zadra

and finally:

You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.
You're on your own.
And you know what you know.
You are the guy who'll decide where to go.
~Dr. Seuss

Morning Glory!

2010-04-20T08:25:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning, went to make myself some breakfast, looked in my cubbord and all I found was flippin' Luck Charms!! (Can you tell I'm on a diet? Yeah, neither can I!) So finally settling on peanut butter toast, I turned on Yahoo, and lo and behold, I found this article "10 Breakfasts that Slim and Energize!" FABOO!!! Here are their suggestions:

SPEEDY WEEKDAY BREAKFASTS (about 350 calories each)

Breakfast Burrito
Cook 1 Amy's Breakfast Burrito as directed on package. Top with 2 tablespoons plain nonfat yogurt. Serve with 1 orange.

Bacon, Egg and Cheese Sandwich
Order 1 Starbucks Reduced-Fat Turkey Bacon and Egg Whites English Muffin sandwich.

Cream Cheese, Fig and Nut WrapRoll up a whole-wheat wrap with 2 tbsp light cream cheese, 4 dried fig halves and 2 tbsp chopped walnuts.

Cherry-Vanilla-Almond Smoothie
Blend together 1 cup frozen cherries, half a medium banana, 1 cup skim milk, 1/2 cup plain nonfat yogurt and 1 tbsp sliced almonds. Add a few ice cubes to make it more frothy.

Strawberry Almond OatmealPrepare 1 packet instant plain oatmeal with 1/2 cup skim milk instead of water. Top with 3/4 cup frozen strawberries, thawed; 2 tbsp sliced almonds and 1 teaspoon brown sugar.

Apricot, Almond and Ricotta Toast Spread 2 slices whole-wheat toast each with 2 tbsp part-skim ricotta and 1 tsp apricot preserves; top each slice with 1 1/2 tsp sliced almonds.

5-Minute Egg and Smoked Salmon Sandwich
Crack 1 egg into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a paper towel and microwave until egg is cooked through and not runny. Layer 1 wedge The Laughing Cow Light cheese, egg, 2 oz smoked salmon and 1/4 cup raw baby spinach on a Whole Wheat Arnold Sandwich Thin. Serve with 1large apple.

LEISURELY WEEKEND BREAKFASTS (about 350 calories each)

Portobello and Pesto Egg Scramble
In a medium sauté pan, cook 1 sliced portobello mushroom cap with 1/4 cup chopped red onion in 1 tsp olive oil until soft, about 5 minutes. Whisk 4 egg whites with 1 tbsp water and add to pan. Scramble mixture over medium heat until eggs are no longer runny; add salt and pepper to taste. Just before removing from heat, fold in 1/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella and 1 tsp prepared pesto. Serve with 1 slice whole-wheat toast.

Peanut Butter Waffle-wich
Top one toasted whole-grain waffle with 2 tsp peanut butter, 2⁄3 cup sliced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Top with another whole-grain waffle. Serve with a café au lait made with 4 ounces coffee mixed with 4 oz steamed skim milk.

Spinach and Smoked Gouda Egg Sandwich
Sauté 1 cup fresh spinach with olive oil cooking spray until wilted (add pepper and garlic powder if desired); set spinach aside. In same pan, fry 1 egg plus 1 egg white in cooking spray until no longer runny. Top eggs with 2 tbsp shredded smoked Gouda. Sandwich eggs, cheese and spinach between 2 sides of a toasted whole-wheat English muffin. Serve with 1 orange.

Yummy, right?? I KNOW!! I'm thinking a trip to Cub is in order today!! Have a happy day!!

Summer time fun!!

2010-04-19T13:19:00.002-05:00

Folks, finally, the time has come for summer!! Can I get a "WOOP WOOP?" You're going to have to be a little louder, 'cus I can't hear you through the computer screen! With temperatures reaching the mid 70's, the mood of diets and exercises is at an all time high!! So here I am this afternoon to encourage you to take advantage of this beautiful time!! (I'm even sitting outside getting a little extra sun!)

I'm about to blow your mind!! This is going to be the ultimate summer blog! From the yummy food to the importance of natural sunlight!! So...here we go!!

Since it's warm, I vote get outside to exercise!! Sure, the gym is great in the winter, or when the sun decides to hide, but not everyone likes to run! (I know I'm not the biggest fan!) So here are some ideas for unique exercises you can do outside, with or without kids!!

"Roughing it!" You heard me right!! Put on a backpack, keep a bottle of water and pack a lunch and go find an awesome hiking trail!! Not only are you getting exercise, but you're getting to bond with nature, something I know adults tend to forget once we discover the world of television!! You don't have to go fast, just enjoy your surroundings!

Frisbee Golf!! It's a unique concept for many, but all too familiar to many more!! It's pretty much what it sounds like, golf using frisbees! How fun is that?! Let me tell you it's a lot of fun! Need help finding a course? Check out this website to find one near you!!
http://find.mapmuse.com/interest/disc-golf

Bikes, Blades and Boards!! Go back to your childhood!! Pull out your bike from the garage, dust it off, and bike to a DQ and get yourself a lowfat cone!! It's summer after all, we can be good ALL the time, right?? Find your rollerblades! Reteach yourself to stop without falling! Maybe even LEARN to skateboard! Have you kid teach you what they already know!!

Finally, start a garden! I know I live in an apartment, and many times I can, but I know a lot of people who keep very elaborate gardens!! Offer to help! Go find your local community garden, if there isn't one, start one!! Summer activities are endless and all you have to do is be creative! Start your own football or baseball game, have fun, act like a kid, go fly a kite!!

FOOD! Oh summer, how I love the food you offer me! The fresh fruit, the crisp veggies, oh, did I mention the fresh fruit?? Well, here are some summer favorites, and maybe even a couple new ideas for you!

Watermelon - Watermelon has more than 80 percent water, so this summer fruit is an excellent way to satisfy your thirst and keep you hydrated during summers. Save the apples, bananas and oranges for the fall, instead satiate your appetite on a variety of fresh summer fruits like different berries and melons. Mangoes - This fruit is available only in summers and is loaded with beta carotene, vitamin C and fiber.

Grilled vegetables - Keep your refrigerator stocked with a plate of prepared grilled peppers, grilled onions, carrots, zucchini, garlic, eggplant, celery and asparagus. The antioxidant properties present in these summer vegetables can help to minimize skin damage caused due to sun exposure during summer days Grilled salads - Use grilled summer vegetables to prepare a variety of dishes like grilled vegetable pitas, grilled vegetable and fresh herb pasta or ricotta or frittatas and grilled vegetable and reduced calorie cheese salads.

Chilled soups - Chilled soups are great appetizers to start your meal. Choose chilled soups like cucumber-dill or gazpacho which are loaded with crunchy vegetables. Moreover soups also account to your total fluid intake and thus can help you stay hydrated.

Vegetable salads - Like chilled soups, salads are also great way to kick start your meals. Almost all the salads need minimum preparation time and are considered healthy, quick meals provided you don’t load them with heavy dressings. Remember the more the number of fresh vegetables in the diet the healthier you will be during summer. Cool cucumber - Cucumber is rightly called cool as it is about 20% naturally cooler than other vegetables. A chilled or fresh cucumber slice in your salads or vegetables can be truly refreshing

Whole grain salads - Whole grain salads like tabouli and wheat berry are also excellent summer choices.

Bean and sprout salads - Toss some beans or sprouts along with sliced or diced vegetables and fruits to increase the protein content of the salads.

Vegetable cheese salads - Toss some reduced calorie cheese chunks in your chopped vegetables to increase the calcium as well as protein content of the salads.

Low fat drinks - Generally we tend to drink sweetened and creamy coffees, teas, sodas and smoothies in summer to such an extent that we forget about the calories we take in. Remember, any liquid will only help to quench your thirst and not your hunger. So choose wisely –orange dream float, root beer and ice skim latte are some good choices.

Fruit based desserts - Forget your creamy heavy desserts, instead satisfy your ferocious sweet tooth with healthy fruit based desserts.

Low calorie desserts like dark frozen sweet cherries, frozen grapes, chocolate covered frozen banana, grilled blackberries with white peaches and honey, grilled pineapple with pecans and rum, low fat fresh fruit ice creams and grilled banana sundaes made from low fat ice creams are also some good summer food choices.

Water - Lastly nothing can be as refreshing and satisfying as a glass of water on a hot summer day. Keep yourself well hydrated.

Finally, the last bit, the part we Minnesotans know well, sunshine!! Part of summer is to absorb all the vitamins and minerals we need to keep on going, and part of those vitamins are not just eaten, rather absorbed! Sunlight is the best and only natural source of vitamin D. Unlike dietary or supplementary vitamin D, when you get your ‘D’ from sunshine your body takes what it needs, and de-metabolizes any extra. That’s critical – as vitamin D experts and many health groups now advocate 1,000 to 2,000 IU of vitamin D daily – five to ten times the old recommendations. Because too much ‘D’ from dietary supplements may cause the body to over-process calcium, nobody really knows for sure how much supplementary vitamin D is safe. On the other hand, sunlight-induced vitamin D doesn’t have that problem – it’s the way your body is intended to make it!

In English?! Sun is good!! Vitamin D helps protect against breast cancer, helps maintain bone density, healthy bone growth and helps maintain the normal functioning of the nervous system. It is crucially important in aiding the body’s absorption of calcium. Without sufficient vitamin D, calcium supplements are almost useless.

In lots of Science terms:
One growing impact on the production of vitamin D in the body, is the use of sunscreen. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, “the application of sunscreen with an SPF factor of 8 reduces production of vitamin D by 95%.” Wow! What a predicament we have since sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer! Well, it all comes down to the notion of moderation. According to Dr. Michael Holick, from Boston University, limited sun exposure of 5-10 minutes three times a week, during the spring, summer and fall, during the mid-day from 11am to 2pm, on the face and arms, will provide enough vitamin D for the individual. This sun exposure will also allow for storage of the excess vitamin D during the winter, when the UVB rays will not reach some areas. This is also recommended by the Linus Pauling Institute, which also advises healthy adults to take a daily multivitamin supplement containing vitamin D.

In English:
Use sunscreen, but use it sparingly...SPF 100, not a good way to get your Vit D!

I hope you all enjoyed this summer filled informative session!! If you have any suggestions, feel free to leave your favorite activities or food!! Have a wonderful, safe and sun-filled summer!!!

Changing it up...again!

2010-04-16T08:32:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I get SO frustrated with this diet thing!! It's like, I'll do everything right and still gain. So, I'm going to change it up...again!

I've been doing weight watchers for the last month and a half, and have seen no progress! It sucks because it's a really good program, but for some reason, it's just not doing it for me!! So I went back to my old "King of Calories" book!, I did my research and got my "ideal" amount of calories to eat to lose again! Surprisingly, it's a lot!!

If I want to maintain, I get to eat OVER 2000 calories, 2490 to be exact! However, they suggested to lose, eat 500 fewer! So that is what I intend to do! My goal is going to be 1800 to 1900 a day!

So, motivation, please come back!! Anytime...seriously...ready...bring it on!!! I'm waaaaaiiiiiiiiting!!!

ONE YEAR IN!!

2010-04-04T22:11:00.000-05:00

Today is Easter! Today is the Jesus rose from the grave and gave all humans a new start!! Well, Easter now feels, to me, a brand new start for me in Goals!!

Folks, it's been one year since I started my weight loss journey, can you believe it, 365 days, 52 weeks!! In 52 weeks I have lost 70 pounds! This journey has been amazing, and I have met so many people this past year that have gotten me to this (You all know who you are, there are just TOO many to mention!)

Well, like I mentioned, today is a day of renewal! I am here to vow (again) to you, I am going to get back on track 100%!!! I am SOO close to my goals I may have to kick myself in the @$$, but it's gonna happen!!

First, journal, journal, journal JOURNAL!!!!!!!! Since I've gotten comfortable with my weight loss I've done generic "fruit!" No, no more! I will do "1 Cup Grapes" and then the points!! It's only me now keeping myself honest, and it's time I do that!

Next, EXERCISE!! Unfortunately, Colin is off his orders this month, which means, no more Norman, however, like any good teacher, he taught me, and prepared me for this day! It's the day where the baby birds leave the nest! Well, with the weather getting nice, it's time I start my running again, while getting my butt to Lifetime. With Gold's closing, a new chapter of exercise is opening and it's a blank page. As the song says "the rest is still unwritten!"

I'm going back to basics people! It has been an amazing journey so far, and I can't wait to keep going!!! I'm also looking forward to getting to continue with you! Knowing that you guys are reading this, is what keeps me going! I LOVE getting messages from you guys saying it's making a difference! It's as if I'm doing this for US, not just me!

So thank you all, SO much for your love and support! This is one of the hardest things I've done and it's been the happiest and probably the most depressing roller coaster I've ever been through! Thank you, thank you THANK YOU!!

5 changes, big and small!

2010-03-28T19:54:00.000-05:00

Sometimes when you're trying to lose weight, you get into a funk. You eat the same breakfast lunch and dinner. You do the same exercises, you wear the same clothes, and after a while, you start to get bored. Not only does the soul get bored with such routine, but your body adapts. My body, for example, is getting far too used to what I'm doing. Wake up, eat cereal, sit around for an hour, go work out for an hour, come home, get ready for work, go to work, come home, eat dinner. Exciting, isn't it?

Well, I'm sitting here watching Ruby, and her therapist suggest to make 5 changes that might be a reminder of who you were and what the extra weight represented. So, being inspired by that, I am going to create my own "5 things" list. THIS, my friends, is my list of 5 things to get me back on my weightloss track!!

1. Stop eating candy! Lately, I've been on this candy kick. Not chocolate or anything, but chewy sprees! OMG, those are my weakness. Almost everyday before work I've been picking up a bag! Do you realize how many extra calories/points that adds?? Cara, WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?!?! So, this is my goal, NO MORE CANDY! I'm going cold turkey here folks!

2. Water, water, water, water!! This has been something I've been trying to go for the last few days, is drinking more water. I'm so bad at it! I hate water! I hate the taste, I hate the boringness, I hate everything about it! I've gone a couple days with out water before! Bad, I know, but that's why it's my goal! I'm going to be drinking AT LEAST 64 ounces of water a day!

3. Get rid of my clothes! I have so many! And it's almost overwhelming! While they fit, the stress of having so much clutter does not help the weight loss! Clutter = stress = weight gain!

4. Changing up my workout routine!! I think I'm getting bored with my workout shin-dig! My goal is to find some totally awesome new, fun exercises and circuits to do that keep me want to keep going and going!!

5. Mirrors. I have NO full length mirrors in my apartment. I'd say 85% of the time, I hate what I see looking back at me. So, I'm going to go buy one. To change reality, you have to face it.

So, these are my 5 "get back on track" goals!! Everyday is a fight in the battle of weight loss, but, I'm getting back on track!

101 things to make you smile!

2010-03-23T21:10:00.000-05:00

You may ask what smiling has to do with weightloss? Well, you know you can't lose weight when you're super stressed, so smile, laugh, and let some stress out! Once again, I have to give credit to Yahoo for this one! So many days we all look past the simple things in life. Here is a list of things, by just reading them, you'll smile!

coloring (yes, grown-ups can do it, too)
crisp cotton sheets
soft skin
old family recipes
the first daffodils of spring
sleeping in
an exercise endorphin high
window boxes
a perfect cup of coffee
a genuine compliment (giving or receiving)
the way babies smell
a handwritten letter
waking up in a good mood...for no real reason
singing in the shower
finding a couple forgotten dollars in your pocket
doing something nice for your neighbor
a home cooked meal
laughing
movie theater popcorn
playing hookey
a bubble bath
swimming
an afternoon nap
street musicians
your favorite song
saying thank you
helping someone in need
old fashioned photo booths
fresh whipped cream
inspiring blogs
a glass of wine
rainy afternoons
the funny things kids say
a novel you can get lost in
finding the perfect piece of clothing...on sale
clean laundry
the wind in your hair
treating the person behind you at the drive-thru
sharing an umbrella
the smell of lavender
a long walk that clears your head
a bear hug
The Beatles
smiling at a stranger
eating with chopsticks (Chinese food optional)
butterflies
staying in your pj's all day
singing along to the radio and knowing all the words
fresh herbs
ordering in pizza
happy endings...even if they're fictional
flying a kite
puppies
root beer floats
holding open the door...
...or having someone hold the door for you
fountain soda
white, fluffy towels
sunshine
spending an afternoon at a museum
really great advice
green lights all the way home
the sound of rain hitting the windows
sitting in a booth
holding hands
a great hair day with no effort
building a fort with your kids
when someone falls asleep with their head on your shoulder
fireflies
the perfect taco
geraniums on a windowsill
slow dancing
the smell of fresh-baked bread
cheesy, uplifting musicals
great stories
the smell of gasoline
the cold side of the pillow
love letters
old friends...
...new friends
a pull-through parking space
a baguette -- crisp on the outside, airy on the inside
when a dog licks your hand
sitting at the counter at an old-fashioned diner
using your favorite dishes
reading your child a bedtime story
Girl Scout Cookies
flossing
kissing someone you love
the smell of onions and garlic cooking
hot chocolate
jumping in puddles
old photographs
birds hopping on the sidewalk
Ella Fitzgerald
a spoonful of peanut butter straight from the jar
your softest t-shirt
a new magazine in the mail
fireplaces
having exact change
bacon and pancakes cooking on Saturday morning

SO, I hope these brought a smile to your face, and I hope even more you are able to accomplish a few of these today! So for now, keep on smiling! :)

Change in Pageants!

2010-03-23T13:07:00.001-05:00

This article was featured on yahoo, and I thought it might spark some change in the U.S.

"If Katrina Hodge has her way, the world’s major beauty pageants may start looking a lot different.

A soldier in the British army, Hodge detained and disarmed a suspected rebel fighter with her bare hands while serving in Iraq. But she doesn't wear combat boots and Kevlar 24-7. Lance Cpl. Hodge is also a lingerie model for La Senza and was a contestant in last year's Miss England beauty contest. But don't assume those two very different occupations are mutually exclusive.

The soldier and model (nicknamed "Combat Barbie") recently convinced the organizers of the Miss England pageant to drop the ever-popular swimsuit portion. In England's Daily Telegraph, the multitalented woman remarked that posing in swimsuits just isn't fair to the contestants. "I think it's nerve-racking enough to girls to get up on a stage and speak, let alone in a swimsuit."

No argument here. Instead of strutting their stuff in swimsuits, the contestants will participate in a sports challenge, overseen by Hodge. The show's organizers pointed to the change as proof that their contest is always evolving. Apparently, looking good in a swimsuit is also irrelevant, as winners are rarely asked to appear in swimwear for public events.

News of the changes stirred up a lot of activity in the Yahoo! Search box. Online lookups for "katrina hodge pictures" and "katrina hodge army" both soared into breakout status. Additionally, searches on "miss world" surged an impressive 371% in just one day. Perhaps that will translate to more viewers.

Or maybe not. Back in 1994, when the Miss America contest asked viewers via a phone-in poll whether or not they thought the swimsuit portion should be discontinued, 73% of callers voted to keep it. In 2000, another poll was run, and 50% of viewers said they would no longer watch if the swimsuit portion was discontinued."