Holidays

It's nearly Christmas!

I'm excited :-)

As you can tell by the look of the blog, it's been a busy holiday season.

I'm looking forward to doing more challenges -after the holidays are over ;-)

I want to eat my weight in cookies first, and then I'll definitely be motivated to keep going with this!

Also, my body needs to heal before I can do an intense workout again.

On Sunday I was racing my sweet husband to our car and I slipped on some mud and hit the pavement hard.

It still hurts.

My right palm and left hip are swollen and bruised. My hip has an especially nasty bruise, and is very painful.

But I'm healing! and taking it easy.

So, I'm motivated to sit back, relax and enjoy the holidays, and then to start back up with Reasons to Lose after things settle down!

How are you guys doing? Still working out, or waiting til after Christmas?

I know Thanksgiving is past, but most people have a big Christmas feast as well. Here are some tips to help in case you don't want to eat your weight... though I don't know who wouldn't be into that. sort of thing.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

ps. Thank you Annie for giving me some Peppermint Bark! You're awesome :-)

pps. I'm linking this to Nain's new meme: Motivation Monday!
what are you motivated about?

Mmm... Peppermint Bark

I have been really bad at posting on my day, sorry guys!

I'll do better next week :-)

So I haven't "phoned" anything in yet, but it sure is difficult to keep up a workout routine during the holidays, because I am so busy.

Thank goodness we have our Monday workouts together!

The food challenge this week is pretty awesome. 

It is so important to know what we are putting in our bodies. I've been reading labels and researching the ingredients a lot, so this challenge is easy for me because I've been doing it for months now. :)

I know I'll need to work out extra hard after the holidays because I plan on splurging on cookies and candies

Speaking of, here is a recipe for Peppermint Bark

Ingredients

• 8 ounces high-quality semisweet chocolate, broken into pieces
• 2 teaspoons canola oil, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, divided
• 8 ounces high-quality white chocolate, broken into pieces
• 25 peppermint candies, crushed

Directions

1. Lightly grease a 9x9 inch pan and line with waxed paper, smoothing out wrinkles; set aside.
2. Place the semisweet chocolate and 1 teaspoon of the canola oil in the top of a double boiler over just barely simmering water, stirring frequently and scraping down the sides with a rubber spatula to avoid scorching. When the chocolate is melted, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of the peppermint extract. Pour the melted chocolate into the prepared pan, and spread evenly over the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle half of the crushed peppermints over the chocolate layer. Refrigerate until completely hardened, about 1 hour.
3. Place the white chocolate and the remaining 1 teaspoon canola oil in the top of a double boiler over just barely simmering water, stirring frequently and scraping down the sides with a rubber spatula to avoid scorching. When the chocolate is melted, stir in the remaining 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract. Pour the white chocolate directly over the semisweet chocolate layer; spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crushed candy over the top and gently press in. Refrigerate until completely hardened. Remove from pan; break into small pieces to serve.

I've never made it before, but it looks and sounds delicious!

I think one of you should make it for me :-P

The Absolute Best Taco Soup in the History of Ever

Hey guys. Now that I'm jobless, I have plenty of time to cook and clean and oh gosh, someone please hire me.

Ahem.

So, I made this recipe yesterday, and it was just as freaking amazing as always. If I had to choose this soup or my husband, something tells me he wouldn't be too thrilled with my answer (but since he's tasted it, he would understand). Then I realized- I can't keep it to myself. That would be unforgivably selfish. So here it is.

It's a hybrid of 3 different Taco Soup recipes that I found. I mixed them together myself. Go me.

(there are like a million ingredients, but it makes a ton of soup.)

(and it is super simple to make)

(don't drain the cans)

The Absolute Best Taco Soup in the History of Ever.

What you need:

* 1-2 lbs Ground Beef
* 1 Onion, diced
* 1 Can stewed tomatoes
* 1-2 Can(s) diced tomatoes
* 1 Can diced tomatoes with green chilies
* 1 Can kidney beans
* 1 Can black eyed peas
* 1 Can pinto beans
* 2 Cans white corn (I used yellow)
* 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cut into small chunks
* 1 Package taco seasoning
* Chili powder to taste

(If you are short an ingredient or 2, don't sweat it. But the more you add, the more people you can feed)

1. Brown the ground beef in saucepan, with diced onion, over Medium heat. Drain.
2. Pour ground beef, diced onions, cheese, taco seasoning, and all of the cans (Un-drained!) into a large pot, also over Medium heat.
3. Do not drain cans.
4. Heat for 40 minutes to 1 hour (or until cheese is completely melted). You can speed this up by pre-melting the cheese, but you will still want to let it simmer for a while.
5. Add Chili powder to taste.
6. Serve over a handful of broken tortilla chips.

Makes 10-12 servings.

Leftovers may thicken in the fridge. Simply add a little water before reheating in the microwave.

I like to freeze half of it, for a week when I don't feel like cooking.

Enjoy!


(No, really. I would eat this soup every single day if I could.)


-Helena

Weekly Challenge #5

In case you are new:

Each week we are given two challenges. These challenges will start on Sunday (usually) and go through the following Saturday. (click here to learn more about our weekly challenges)

At the end of the week, we will each write a post explaining our experiences with the challenges.

BE HONEST. If you failed the challenge, tell us why. If you rocked it, tell us how. Most importantly, tell us how you feel about it.

This week's challenges

Physical Challenge: Don't Quit!

We all have those times when we don't really put 100% into our workouts, maybe you could push a little harder but you don't, or maybe you are stuck in the same routine and don't really go the extra mile. This week, with whatever you do, give it your all! Don't quit, push harder, give it everything you have! You don't have to add an extra workout, just make sure whatever you are doing, you don't phone it in!

Nutritional Challenge: Better Eating!

This is the season for food, not officially of course, but that is what everyone seems to have turn it into... and I'm really okay with that but seeing as we are trying to be healthier we should probably be mindful of what we are putting into our bodies. So this week read all the food labels on everything you eat! If you are shopping, read the label before you buy it, if you are going out to eat see if you can get the info on what you will be consuming before you go (or if your phone allows, do it at the restaurant). You can still eat whatever you want but maybe if you know exactly what you are putting into your body, you might decide on something a little healthier!

Oh heck yes. I am SO going to win.

Good news!

I got laid off!

Ok, so that isn't actually good news. But there are some positives.

1. I get to sleep in.
2. I get to have naked dance parties.
3. I get to move around a whole heck of a lot more.

That's right guys. For the first time in a long time, I did not spend 40+ hours in my week sitting in front of a computer.

My blog reading is suffering. But my butt is not.

Thanks in part to this, in part to my much-better eating habits, and mostly because I am a little afraid of Amber's disapproval (have you seen that look she gets?) I have already lost 7 pounds!

No, not in a week. Since we started this round a month ago.

And compared to last season when I gained weight, I'd say that's pretty darn awesome!

I'm still nowhere near my goal, but heck, I'm not complaining.

So thank you guys, for believing in me, even when I was being lame and not living up to my group blogging responsibilities.

And now that I'm finally seeing some results (and I have some more time on my hands) I plan on being a little less lame, and a little more active.

I am feeling very encouraged right now.

And now, for my challenge updates:

Physical Challenge: I added some running to my week. I hate running, but I haven't done it in forever, and so I thought I would give it a try. It was just as terrible as I remembered.

Emotional Challenge: I tried to ask Kurt, but he was sleeping, and could only mutter "your lips" while pushing me away. So I called Amber and Chantel- but they didn't answer. Maybe because it was 2 in the morning?

Who the heck would be up this late...?

Why, Jimmy and Annie, of course!

I was totally right, and they were more than willing to help.

They didn't focus on physical things, but on characteristics that are so much more real.

My intuitiveness, my creativity, my determination and drive. My perspective and advice, my listening skills, the way I notice others and meet their needs.

I was floored.

They each gave examples, and were incredibly sincere. And I realized- these are the things I want to be known for. These are the things that really matter.

So now? I just have to believe them.


-Helena

Begging Your Forgiveness

Hello lads and lasses,

*The following content is not for those of you opposed to quitters, quitting, quizzes, or other "Q" words.
It is with heavy heart and deep regret that I come to you and request forgiveness "For what!?" you may ask, mortified at the bleak scene that I have just now set. I would and am forced to reply, "for withdrawing from our friendly competition . . . " Permit me (though I deserve no such mercy) to explain why:

I have, just this last semester, again engaged myself to an establishment of higher education, one Utah Valley University. In doing I applied for and eventually received a bit of financial aid to assist with the increased fiscal burden of my lost working time. Upon this aid was placed a condition, a seemingly insignificant one at the time, to end my classes with a C+ or higher. If, at the end of the semester, I had failed to keep my side of the bargain, I would then be responsible for repaying the full amount of aid provided. Thinking nothing of this, I signed on the dotted line and proceeded to skip classes like the studious little popinjay that I am. Now we come to the practical application. Having just received both an unsatisfactory report card and a detailed list of everything required for my quickly approaching Finals I desperately sought to trim some time consumers from my schedule that would cripple me in my quest for passing grades. Quickly surfaced in my mind eye three easily redeemable hours per week that would be better spent studying than say . . . exercising. Poorly though I felt at my decision I knew it must be made and so here we are, you, in front of your computer screen, mouth agape in horror at my weak discipline and I, on bended knee, begging your forgiveness.

Weekly Challenge #4

In case you are new:

Each week we are given two challenges. These challenges will start on Sunday (usually) and go through the following Saturday. (click here to learn more about our weekly challenges)

At the end of the week, we will each write a post explaining our experiences with the challenges.

BE HONEST. If you failed the challenge, tell us why. If you rocked it, tell us how. Most importantly, tell us how you feel about it.

This week's challenges

Physical Challenge: The Day of Reckoning!

The Holidays are about to get into full force, so before it gets too crazy and too hard to find time, we are going to do the workout/exercise you have been dreading. Have a DVD you have been ignoring? This week you are going to bust it out. Have you been avoiding a class or a piece of equipment at the gym? Now is the time to get in there and do it! Try 'it' (whatever your 'it' is) in place of one of your normal workouts or do it in addition but don't skimp on your regular routine just because you are adding something new!

Emotional Challenge: Listen and Believe!

You are awesome but sometimes it is hard to feel that way, so this week ask three different people to tell you three things they like about you! Then you need to believe it, the challenge is not to just hear it and move on but to really listen and let it boost your self confidence!

Thankful For Family

Hello all,

I am a little less than pleased to be admitting that I only exercised once. This morning I did a calisthenics circuit for 20 min. Other than that I have been too tired from the mountains of delicious holiday foods to exercise.

As for the water drinking, I have been doing so well and I've been feeling so good! I've been having 24 oz every morning after waking up, 16 at bedtime and 2-3 cup more throughout the course of the day. I know it's still less than I should but it's infinitely better than the 2-3 cups that I was drinking before the challenge.

My diet and portions have been quite well controlled in the past weeks and my whole grain intake is way up. Soooooo with that I am pleased to tell you all,
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I know, I know... I'm a day late in posting. I'm sorry! 

But, Happy Thanksgiving! 

I hope you all have been earning the right to indulge in all of the wonderful food provided in your feasts! I was doing some squats earlier, I think that earns me bonus points.

And of course drinking lots of water too! Water really is a wonderful thing. And it can be hard to remember to drink when it isn't hot outside, so I think it's great that we are having this challenge now as it turns to a bitter cold.

In case you guys are having a hard time with drinking water, here is a post I wrote last season about the benefits of drinking water, as well as the side effects of not drinking enough. I hope it gives you motivation :-)

I am thankful for so many things, water included :-P 

But also my life, my husband, my family, my friends and my body. I am so grateful that I have this wonderful body, and I want to make sure I keep treating it right.

What are you thankful for?

Shrimps!

Since I have not been to sleep yet, I'm saying it's still Tuesday and I'm not late to post!

Let's have some shrimp! My sweet friend Megan Metz made some beautiful Shrimp kabobs at work the other day. They were beyond good. And only 4 ingredients.

Take


Put them on these


Grill with butter ( 1 tab)

and this

and the secret ingredient.......
Yummy! I love how on my other blog features Cinnamon rolls.

Weekly Challenge #3

In case you are new:

Each week we are given two challenges. These challenges will start on Sunday (usually) and go through the following Saturday. (click here to learn more about our weekly challenges)

At the end of the week, we will each write a post explaining our experiences with the challenges.

BE HONEST. If you failed the challenge, tell us why. If you rocked it, tell us how. Most importantly, tell us how you feel about it.

This week's challenges

Physical Challenge: Earn It!

The Holidays are upon us and there are going to be tons of opportunities to indulge and get our food on and that is okay... to an extent. This week's physical challenge is to 'earn' the ability to indulge. Say you know you're going to a big dinner in the evening, then do a metabolism boosting ( usually cardio) workout before you go or make sure you do one when you get back (it might be easier to do before you go...). Maybe you know you are going out for a festive brunch, walk there or do something to help counteract all the yummy stuff vying for your attention! You get to decide how to do it, but get physical and start fending off those Holiday pounds!

Nutritional Challenge: Drink Up!

Sorry guys, i'm not talking about liquor but water... This week before any meal you eat, have two cups of water, that way you won't confuse the-

'Hey, you know what? I think I'm thirsty' body response

with the

'I'm starving, you must feed me NOW! I think I'm going to die... Are you listening... Hungry! ' body response

If you are just having a snack, then just have one cup of water first, not only will you not confuse the body's signals but you will also be more aware of what and why you are eating. Is it worth getting a drink first? If so then you are probably hungry, if not then you probably just wanted to munch!

I can't think of a good title...

I'm proud of myself for this week!

I didn't do perfectly, but this past week was so crazy busy for me, I'm proud of what I did do :-)

I did the cardio 2.5 times! I did it twice for 20 minutes and once for 10

And as for the complimenting thing, I think I did well with it. There were a few times that I didn't realize what I had been thinking until later, and I complimented myself then :-) So, I think I did well

I'm psyched for this coming week! I'm ready to work hard, and eat hard!

I'll probably eat 2x my weight in food on Thanksgiving, so I'll have to be sure to exercise extra hard on Friday :-P

What's your favorite Thanksgiving dish?

Challenge #2

I thought I would easily ace this challenge, I normally don't say negative things about myself and I have been consistently doing 3 weekly workouts, so keeping my heart rate up shouldn't have been hard either... My week turned out to be a lot more stressful than normal and I caught myself being negative, luckily I would notice it as it was happening and even though I was in a really bad mood, I would stop and think of two positive things and complement myself with them. Strangely, it made me proud to be able to have the self control to do it and I think I am going to make this a regular habit.

On the physical end of things, I kind of got my cardio in... I didn't do all my normal workouts but I have been pretty active this past week (hauling Christmas stuff up and down from the basement all week has defiantly been a workout in its self!) So I'm going to say I completed that part of the challenge too :)

Week 2

On of my elevators at home is broken. Since it is the one I use the most I find myself forgetting and getting frustrated when the door won't open. So to help with the challenge this week, I would take the stairs. (5 flights. form the parking garage to the 4th floor.) It's not so fun, I was breathing heavy and the whole bit, but at the same time it was nice to know I could do it. 

I think I was too busy and tired to say or think any mean things about myself this week. I guess that is the bonus to working a lot! Till Next week! 

Your sweat is so sexy right now.

Here is how I did on this week's challenges:

I don't want to get boring and repetitive, but I did the 30 Day Shred 2 times this week (how is she not sponsoring our blog?). After all the trouble I went through to get this DVD, you can bet I'm going to use it all the time!

(But really, she should sponsor us)

I did The Shred on Monday with Amber and Chantel via Skype (Annie couldn't make it). But my computer died 2/3 of the way through, and I only pretended to finish the workout.

....I am an awful person.

A few nights later, Kurt asked me to do it with him. So we did.

There's nothing like gasping for breath next to your sweaty significant other to breathe new life into a relationship.

And yes, you can quote me on that.

That's it, though.

I need to do better if I am going to meet my goal.

For the emotional challenge, I did ok. I didn't catch myself thinking anything mean, but I didn't really spend any time complimenting myself, either.

So it was kind of a draw.

I am excited for this week's challenges, because with Thanksgiving coming up, I am going to have to work extra-hard to keep in shape!

How did you guys do?

Procrastination With a Capital "P"!

Hello all.
This week has been. . .er. . . hectic? Today is not even my day to post. . . so things have obviously been going well. Eugh.

The fitness challenge proved too much for me this week as I was short on time and long on fast food. But the emotional challenge proved to be quite nearly a breeze. You see, my brand new husband and I are still in the maximally beginning stages of our marriage so we like to stay in the positive just to let each other know we think they're a catch and try to make them feel like we are too. The benefits of kind words, as one will often find, are kind words returned and a pleasant warm feeling about yourself and everyone in general. In short (though my explanation has not been) the emotional challenge was no challenge at all. With much love, I bid you a fond adieu.

What's the hardest workout for you?

For my cardio workouts this week I've already done the 30 Day Shred once, and for my other workout I'm thinking I'll work on push-ups.

I don't know about you guys, but for me push-ups are the worst! I have the hardest time with them. So I thought I'd try to at least build up the amount I can do.

So I looked on youtube and found this video of the toughest push-up exercises. 

I think you should all try it, let me know how it went, and then maybe I'll do it too :-P

What's the hardest workout for you?

I See Jillian Everywhere...

Last week I decided to only do Jillian Michaels DVDs, I did 'The Shred' on Monday with Annie, Chantel and Helena (with her webcam!). Later in the week, I did Jillian Michaels Yoga which was very interesting, it is really different than the shred. She still tries to add cardio but there are no weights and you do it bare foot (though I do all of her workouts bare foot anyway...) it was a little odd though because she was kind of mellow (very un-Jillian) during the workout. I also did the Jillian Michaels Banish Fat cardio DVD. That one was pretty tough, it is 45 minutes (at least thats what it says, but really it was longer...) instead of 30 minutes like the shred and yoga are and it was full on cardio, like the yoga, there were no weights used but man you really get you heart rate up! The nice thing was I wasn't sore the next day with the Banish Fat DVD, I usually have to have a day in between my workouts to let my muscles recover but with the cardio DVD I could do it without a 'rest' day... Which now that I think about it, isn't necessarily a good thing...

This week I am planning on trying the Jillian Michaels 'No More Trouble Zones' which is also a '45' minute DVD... It is supposed to be like the shred, but longer... I'll let you know how that goes!

Does a green drink recipe count?

Hey all! Here's how I did on this weeks challenges:

I tried one new recipe (it was a green drink recipe, but I think it totally counts!) and Michael also tried one! (he made a couscous dish) So I think that counts too :-P

I walked for 20 + minutes two days this week, and I worked out one other time when I did the Shred with my sisters. 

I was going to do the Shred again, but I got sick towards the end of the week and just didn't have the energy to bring myself to do it :-)

But I am getting much better, not 100% yet, but better than I was. 

And I'm so ready for this coming week!

Season2, Week 1.

And walked, and walked, and walked, and walked! Yup! I did that one! I like to walk on the 6th floor of my building. No one is ever up there and you can just walk back and forth. I also  love to walk in my parking lot.

New Recipe x 2! Well kind of. One was for reals. A new shrimp recipe. Soooo good! And number two, baked chicken with a new herb, so I'm gonna count it. 

Off to a good start! 

Weekly Challenge #2

In case you are new:

Each week we are given two challenges. These challenges will start on Sunday (usually) and go through the following Saturday. (click here to learn more about our weekly challenges)

At the end of the week, we will each write a post explaining our experiences with the challenges.

BE HONEST. If you failed the challenge, tell us why. If you rocked it, tell us how. Most importantly, tell us how you feel about it.

This week's challenges

Physical Challenge: Cardio!

Get that blood pumping! Three times this week do at least 20minutes of cardio exercise. It doesn't need to be fancy but if you can breath and talk normally than you aren't pushing quite hard enough. You can dance, do a workout or rush around a store while shopping but get that heart rate up!

Emotional Challenge: Listen up!

Listen to what you tell yourself. Do you call yourself stupid, fat, ugly, or foolish? Boosting self-esteem and improving self-confidence involves treating yourself kindly – because if you don't, who will? Anytime you slip up and say something negative about yourself (regardless of if you think it is true) you have to replace it with two positives and if someone else says something negative about you, replace it with three. The positives don't have to be related to what you are replacing, maybe you said 'I was so stupid for forgetting' you could replace it with 'my hair looks really nice today' and 'I made my friend really happy when I complemented her yesterday'. Just remember, you are awesome, there is no reasons to feel differently!

Weekly Challenge Update

Yeah I really failed... I started out sick in the beginning of the week and it went downhill from there, I couldn't get out and walk so by the middle of the week I just gave up on it. Not the best way to do it, so next week if I have a slow start I will just do what I can, no matter what that means! As for the new recipes, I was really excited to do this one but our food shopping budget was pretty low this week and I couldn't get any new ingredients. I should have tried harder to find something to make with what we had on hand but like with the physical challenge, I was sick and then gave up :( Next week I am planning on doing much better! (Embarrassment over failing is a pretty good motivator...)

Excuse me while I BLOW YOUR MINDS WITH MY AWESOMENESS.

You will be happy to know that this week I did the 30 Day Shred 4 times. 4 TIMES!!!

And it was just as hard and awful on the fourth time as it was on the first.

I think that the third level is the easiest. The other two make me want to give up on life.

I also walked 4 times, for 20+ minutes each time. So while I didn't exactly pass that challenge, I don't feel too bad at it. After all, I did the Shred 4 TIMES.

Now, I might be imagining it, but I feel like I can already see a difference in my wasteline. It could be because I skipped breakfast this morning, and am a little dehydrated, but I like to think that I'm already seeing results.

(humor me on this one, ok?)

I really like walking. When I was selling my soul security systems a few years back, walking is how I toned up and get in shape. I'm a huge fan.

I just wish had either A. a treadmill in front of my TV, or B. a treadmill next to my work desk. Or both. Then I would have no problem getting in shape.

So...let's just add that one to my Christmas Wishlist, shall we?

For the try something new, we went to an Ethiopian Restaaurant last night. And while that isn't exactly trying a new recipe, I am going to count it.

It was awesome.

When you all come and visit me, we are going there for some traditional African food.

And it's even kind of healthy. Score.

How did you guys do this week?

-Helena

My Thighsssssss!

Ladies and gentlemen! Boys and girls! Gather 'round and I'll tell you a tale of my failings and triumphs, my successes and gloriously wicked sugar binges!
Hello once again, my friends. This week has been one of small successes combined with a bit of backpedaling. The two challenges:

The Walking:
I am proud to say that I am the owner of two sore little legs who feel as though their thighs are being punished for the pleasant little 20 minute a day exercise I gave them. Every day of the week I wake up at 8 for class and wander on over to the gawky teenager of a university where I attend college classes. Due to the recent upsurge in enrollment at said college, there is nowhere to park, thus providing me with a lovely 20 minute trot to school required to meet this week's challenge.

The Recipes:
Now this one is the toughie. Having never been one to cook, I recently found myself in the difficult position of having a husband who thinks it would be nice if he ate once, even twice a day! Go figure. So I gave it a try. On Wednesday I made the full on, early morning, "here's your breakfast in bed, sweetie!" special for my husband. Between mouthfuls of pancake and orange juice he managed to exclaim that this is how mornings should begin. It hasn't happened since. . . Instead, I've decided to eat nothing but Marshmallow Maties (mostly minus the Maties.) with a little topping of icedcream for most of my meals this week. Heck, my mouth is full of a chocolate and caramel confection right now! Eugh. . . Perhaps tonight I'll make a little rice with a bit of olive oil, some teriyaki chicken and a salad. I'll tell you how it goes.

Week #1 and I'm already behind

Sometimes I fail at doing the challenges.

Like this week for instance, I worked out once so far (I'll have done it at least twice by the end of the week) and I've already tried one new recipe!

But the walking...

Oh the walking. I have not been doing it.

I might try and do it everyday for the rest of this week, but since I've already missed two days I'm having a hard time staying motivated to do it.

Maybe I won't let myself eat anything sweet until I do it!

That might work

Of course right now doesn't count though. 

I'm sharing a box of Halloween flavored Dots with Katy.

I'll put this into effect later tonight :-)

How about you guys? Have you been walking?

Couch Potato Quickie

Jimmy and I have shows we like to watch. We don't have tv, but we watch shows the next day on the Internet. I am totally going to do this next time. It's a great idea!

Here We Go Again!

Well a week has passed and I have pretty much gotten back into the swing of things. Before we started our blog back up for season two I took about a week off, so it feels good to be back! I enjoyed my time off but strangely not as much as I thought I would. It was enjoyable to relax but I missed it... So far I have been reaching my goals, I have been bringing lunches to work and I have worked out three times last week, I did the ab ripper (from P90X...) on Friday and my abs still hurt! I was in my living room dying from the video, I guess I must have sounded like I was dying too because my husband came running down the stairs to see what was wrong... He spent the rest of my workout in a trance just watching the people on the workout on the video, it was like a car wreck, you want to turn away but you can't...

Ps. I'm not doing the P90X program (it is too expensive!) I was just trying the ab workout, I had heard so much about it....

Weekly Challenge #1

In case you are new:

Each week we are given two challenges. These challenges will start on Sunday (usually) and go through the following Saturday. (click here to learn more about our weekly challenges)

At the end of the week, we will each write a post explaining our experiences with the challenges.

BE HONEST. If you failed the challenge, tell us why. If you rocked it, tell us how. Most importantly, tell us how you feel about it.

This week's challenges

Physical Challenge: Walk!

This week lets get a 20 min walk every day, that could be outside, in the gym, around the house or in place but get walking! You could take your spouse or a friend but whatever you do, just have fun with it!

Nutritional Challenge: Change It Up!

Try two new recipes this week! Find something a little healthier and make it, it can be breakfast, lunch or dinner, it could be fish, salad, soup or anything else! A good places to look is allrecipes.com, ask around or exchange with someone on the blog!

And so this week, we are going to focus on eating healthy and try to keep it interesting!

Let's get it started in here!

Hey guys, I am off to a good start! This week I have eaten mostly soup for every lunch (and not even cream based ones!), and I've been hitting my fruits and veggies pretty hard during snack time.

Go me.

Not gonna lie, though. The Hollywood Cookie Diet is looking mighty tempting...



In other news, I linked our blog up to my new Follow Me! NOW. link party. So don't get too confused when you see all the comments.



-Helena

My turn!

Considering that I am like the size of two of the other girls, I have a long way to go! I am so very grateful for the support of my sisters. They are a blast to hangout with. Even if we mostly just say swears at the TV. Jillian is so dear too our hearts.......not. 

I have a couple goals for season 2. 

Workout at least twice a week. ( probably once Jillian and once zumba)

Always take the stairs at work unless I am with little old ladies. 

Like Amber, pack lunches for work. 

Lose, not gain weight. (That is hear this time of year!)

Eat more Fruits/Veg. 

Here we go! It will be fun! 

When I was invited to this I thought, "hey, a fight club? I'm game!" As it turns out, it's a little less Fight Club and a little more diet and self esteem. Well, ok, I'm still all in.

Whether it be the desperately difficult challenge of correcting my diet or the exponentially more difficult task of gaining a physique worthy of the term, "fit," I hope to be able to rise to the occasion.

I have a few goals in mind and I'm sure more will be added as I realize the veritable impossibility of improving my diet without making a goal to eat a certain amount of vegetables or realize how difficult it would be to decide to run 4 days a week without making a goal for buying some fitness friendly clothing beyond the glittering spandex unitards to which I am so accustomed, etc. . . So here's the list:

GOALS (I put it in read because it's more menacing that way.)

Firstly: To drink more water. At least 8 cups and maybe even a titch more depending on how much I pretended I drank when I actually doused my overheated self with it during the workout.

Secondly: To run or otherwise raise my heart rate 2 times a week.

Thirdly: To do yoga once a week.

Those are tough but now come the biggies.
Fourthly: To not eat anything that is loaded with sodium, sugar or that takes the form of any of my favorite Wonka candies.

Fifthly: Eat a balance diet.

Sixthly: GO TO BED EARLY!

That last one means that I should be ending this post sometime aaarounnnndddd NOW!

P.S. It's a pleasure to be part of this challenge and I am so excited for the opportunity to improve my diet and health.

Amber: Season Two

I am excited to get started! I won last 'season' and am hoping to kick butt this season too! My main motivation has been to be happier, when I exercise I feel better about everything, my body, my surroundings, my life! I love how I feel and losing weight has been an awesome side effect. Of course I wanted to change my body but that alone wasn't enough to motivate me, if I just focused on what I wanted different, it just depressed me and made me feel even worse about myself. It was when I focused on improving how I felt about how I looked (and I knew that the endorphins from working out really improved my self esteem) that is when I really became dedicated to working out regularly. So Here are my new goals for this 'season'-

1. Be able to do 10 pull ups (I can only do one and a half right now...)
2. Make healthy lunches during the week (instead of skipping or eating out)
3. Lose 5 lbs
4. See more muscle definition
5. Workout at least 3 times a week

This is going to be fun! (Hopefully....)

Helena: Season 2.

Last season, I failed.

More than failed, actually. I gained weight.

How embarrassing.

But I have one thing going for me: I can be honest about the fact that this failure? Was completely my fault.

I lost my drive, and the chocolate won.

But not this time.

This time, I'm kicking some serious cellulite butt.

My goals:

I'm starting small, because to win this thing (or even do well) I will have to take it one step at a time.

1. I will do the 30 day shred 2 times per week (or more. But not less). My soon-to-be-delivered webcam should help me with this :)

2. I will be hydrated (with water, not soda).

3. I will lose at least 20 lbs (that's less than 2lbs each week. this is a very healthy goal).

4. And I will sign up for some kind of dance class, or dance team. <---this is my favorite kind of exercise.

....Ok. So those goals aren't as small as I thought. But each and every one of them is doable, especially with the support I know I'll get here.

Bring it.

Chantel -Season Two!

I don't know about you guys, but I'm psyched for Reasons to Lose Season 2!

It'll basically rock.

For those of you that are new, my name is Chantel,and I have loved doing Reasons to Lose. I'd never really  done any exercising until this blog. I was skeptical at first, but I've noticed so many differences in my health and stamina that I know I'll stick with it and I'm surprised I'd never tried it before!

I love to do things with family and friends, so this is a good way to have fun with them, as well as get me to stick to a healthier life-style. Reasons to Lose is awesome because I feel like I've gotten closer to everyone, which I love.

My husband Michael and I have been sticking to our green drinks every morning for breakfast for the past 5ish months, and despite what you may think, they are still awesome! 

If you have any questions about those, let me know :)

I've been thinking about what I want my goals to be for this season, and I'm not completely sure yet. I'll keep you guys posted on what else I come up with :-) 

Here's what I do know:

I want to tone up more -I do not want to be chiseled, but being able to see slight ab muscles would be nice

I am not good at running. I hate it with a passion in fact. But, a goal of mine is to give it a try (Katy -you'll meet her later- invited me to go running with her. So I'll start with that)

I want to be able to do 20 pull-ups (my limit right now is 10 on a good day)

And I would like to be able to do the advanced moves in level 1 on the 30 Day Shred

That's all I've got right now. But 3 months is a long time, and we'll see what happens :-)

So far, I haven't gotten my usual fall sickness. Which is like a record for me!

I normally get sick for over a month in the fall/winter time. And working out has definitely made a difference. 

Now I just hope I didn't jinx it...

Here's to this season being awesome!

I hope you guys all participate in our weekly challenges and link up how you did :-)

(If you want to know more about me, you can click on the Chantel label to read all my posts, or visit my blog: My Thoughts and Treasures)

Season Two

Well our three month challenge has come to an end and we are all ready for Season Two (as my husband refers to it) These past three months we all learned a lot, we are stronger then we think, sometimes people decide to quit, motivation is hard to find, we need to push harder and there are many different benefits to working out (that is just to name a few!)! We have really learned and now it is time to incorporate all those lessons and become unstoppable!

We are Back (well most of us!) Chantel, Helena, Annie and Amber! We are also bring on a new member to our team Katy (notice the spelling is different then our old Katie, and that is because she really is a different person) . She will be introducing herself shortly.

November 1st marks the day we start new! Three more months with a few new twists!

Here are the rules for

Reasons To Lose (Season Two)

1. The contest will last for three months
2. Each person gets to chose their own workout and eating plan
3. Everyone will post about their progress at least once a week
4. Everyone will work out at least twice a week
5. The challenges are optional but encouraged
6. The winner gets to choose their prize (and the losers provide it)

To be able to qualify to win, you must follow these rules! So get your $20 ready everybody and Let's do this thing!

I Won!

I really didn't think I would win, though I have tried like a mad woman to do my best. I am super excited and can't wait to spend my prize money on some new clothes (at least that is what I think I will be spending it on! I'll blog about what I end up doing!) I am super excited to start the next round of our blog and I hope to push myself even harder. I have grown so much, learned so much about who I am and what I am capable of through all this and I feel so blessed to have done it with my sisters! Thanks guys for doing this with me, I love you all!

Let's not focus on the past....

I very much lost.

This time.

But next time? I'm winning this. So watch out, ladies!

Proof that I lost:

I gained 1 on the BMI. I know. It could be muscle... but more likely it's chocolate.

I think that this group challenge thing CAN work. It's just up to each of us to really put everything we have into this.

I am ordering a webcam on Monday.

Let's do this thing.

My Stats

Well I lost my original body fat%... So I don't know exactly how much that has changed (oops!) but I do have some other measurements I took, so hopefully we can still figure out who won. I have had a great time these last three months, I really got into it and I feel a lot better over all. My self esteem and self worth have really skyrocketed and I have a ton more energy, I just enjoyed the whole thing :)

BMI, -1.1

Weight, -6 pounds

Measurements

Arms, -1 inch

Thighs, -1 inch

Midsection, -1 inch

I have gained some muscle and even though I don't notice much of a physical difference in my body (though people tell me there is), it is nice to see evidence (and inch over all is pretty good) that it has actually changed some!

My results

I did not win. I can tell you that right now :-)

But I'm okay with that. Because I had a lot of fun, and learned a lot!

Like Annie, I'm very happy to do the Shred every Monday with my sisters (I'm excited for you to get a webcam Helena :) And, as I said in my little "about me" section, I wanted to build my immune system. So far so good!

I haven't gotten sick yet this fall, and normally it would have hit by now.

I can kind of feel myself being close to getting sick sometimes, but I don't think it will last as long as normal if it does happen.

So, I'm happy about that :-)

Now for my results:

My body fat went down by 1.8%

My BMI went up by .3%

and I gained 1.5 lbs

I'm looking forward to seeing who won, and for starting up again!

First! ( but not wanting to be!)

I didn't want to go first......but It's now or never! Confession time. 

    I did not do so well. And I know it. And I knew it throughout. I could do so much better. But I always had an excuse, or was too tired,or too busy. 

   But. What did I get from this experience?  A weekly date with 2 of my sister in laws. Without them, Jillian would have been in the trash. For Reals. I've also really learned to love this girl. She is inspiring and real. I need her drive. Also I have found I love ZUMBA! It is so much fun! (Having a great teacher helps.) 

So even if I didn't win the end prize, I learned things about myself. And I hope, really hope,I will put more effort in next time around. 

Lost: 5lbs. 1.3% body fat and a 1 on the BMI. 

We Are Done!

Well our three month challenge is up, we had a good run and now it is time to face the music!

We are all going to do our final 'weigh in' and find out who won this round. So figure out your BMI and total body fat % and lets figure out our winner!

Who do you think won?

I need to break this cycle somehow.

Hi guys. So I read something yesterday that describes me perfectly.

And I mean perfectly.

I have a hard time staying on top of things. Cleaning, posting, and yes, exercise.

I have the best intentions!

But then I burn out.

And feel guilty.

And avoid it.

It's not a very good cycle.

And I guess I'm not alone.

Here is the post that spoke to me. Maybe it will speak to you, too.

Last Week...

I can't believe it's almost been 3 months already!

It doesn't feel like it.

I'm glad we'll be starting it up again though, because I've been having a lot of fun with challenges and working out and everything.

Last week went well for me, I had breakfast almost every morning, and I added some workouts for my arms.

On Saturday my husband sang at a womens conference that his sister was speaking at, it was all about women, food and how to get healthy.

It was awesome.

We didn't know what the conference was about prior to getting there, otherwise I would have invited everyone to it. The stories people shared were amazing about how they changed their lives, got over food addictions, and got healthy.

One of the tips I heard was to always bring gum with you. So, the idea is that when you are at a function and see the dessert table you just pop in some gum instead of brownies.

Another tip that really stuck with me was when one of the speakers was sharing her experiences: she said "when you shed the weight on the outside, you need to shed the 'weight' on the inside. Get rid of any negative thoughts and feelings you have about yourself. Let it go, just like your weight."

And lastly, this same lady said this when sharing her story "I finally learned how to eat to live, instead of living to eat."  I liked that.

Anyway, it was a good conference :-)

And while I'm sharing tips here are some tips from "The Biggest Loser"

"Eat often -- snack often," says Alexander.  While this may seem contrary to traditional dieting advice, the chef says that as long as you keep an eye on calories and portions, eating often will stave off hunger attacks that ultimately sabotage your diet.

 "Instead of watching the clock during workouts, listen to music," to make the time go faster,says Erik Chopin, TheBiggest Loser's season-three winner.Lyons reminds us that everyday activities, like bike riding, tossing a Frisbee, or walking your dog, count as physical activity, too.

 "When eating out, always ask for a 'to-go' box -- at the start of your meal," says Biggest Loser contestant Bobby Moore. Then, when your food arrives, immediately put half of it in the box, he suggests. This way, you'll not only get used to eating smaller portions, but you'll have a snack for later.

 Remember: Self-esteem feeds on self-esteem. Accomplishing a little something toward your weight loss goal every day will not only get you on the road to success, but help keep you there. "You are not just losing weight, you are changing your life and your lifestyle," says Alexander. "If you keep that in mind, you come to see that every change, no matter how small, comes together to make a huge difference in not only your weight, but your life," says Alexander.

You guys are all doing great!

I'm so glad I've had the chance to do this with you guys. 

Now, Helena you need a webcam so we can ALL work out together! :-)