ITS ALL ABOUT ME!

February Photo Challenge Update

2012-02-15T17:53:00.000+13:00

Day 13 - Blue

these are just some of the blue football shirts of Liams

Day 14 - Heart

Some heart themed paper I was creating with

Day 15 - Phone

My Cellphone

Loving this Image................

2012-02-14T09:09:00.000+13:00

A Quirky Girls Thoughts

I am loving the above picture on so many levels

Jaque is so talented with her images on her blog - she is inspiring me to learn more about putting images together - now to enlist the help of my 14 year old daughter to teach me!

February Photo Challenge Update

2012-02-12T17:08:00.000+13:00

Day 11 - Makes you happy.

This is a photo of my craft corner in our office - where I love to go to create

Dy 12 - My Closet

Here it is jammed packed with all the goodies given to me by my wonderful friend!

Weigh In.............

2012-02-11T07:34:00.000+13:00

Last Week 111.5

This Week 111.6

Opps Gain .100gms

Total lost Now 6.7kg!

Review of the week:

Again I felt a bit on the back foot this week - but then realised it was all TTOTM related so am please it is only a .100 gram gain.

I also mixed it up a bit with my breakfasts and included a few more smoothies to help increase my dairy intake. Will see how that goes - not overly sure if it is a good move weight loss wise. But I know I need the dairy

Saturday 04.02.12 (111.5 at 7.30am)Plus 1 - 22 Points
Breakfast - 3.5 point Smoothie
Snack - Apple 1. point
Lunch - Chicken Wrap - 7 points
Dinner - Chicken, Potato, Veges, cheese sauce 10.5
Total Today: 22 Points
Excercise: None

Sunday 05.02.12 (111.5 at 7.30am)
Minus 2 - 19 Points
Breakfast - 3.5 Point Smoothie
Lunch - Ham Salad with Cheese 4 points
Dinner - American Hotdog 7 points, cheese 2 points, wedges 2.5 points
Total today: 19 points
Excercise:None

Monday 06.02.12 (111.5 at 7.30am)
Minus 4 - 17 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg 1.5 points
Snack - 8 crackers - 2points
Lunch - Ham Salad with Cheese - 4 points
Dinner - Homemade Pizza (Each Wrap2.5 , Ham 2 points, Pineapple 1 point, cheese )9.5 Points
Total today: 17 Points
Excercise: None

Tuesday 07.02.12(111.7 at 6am)
Plus 10 - 31 Points
Breakfast - 3.5 Point Smoothie
Snack - 1 Apple & 1 peach 2 pts
Lunch - Tuna Salad 1 point & 2 Buns 4 points
Snack - 1 orange .5 point and 3 pieces of chocolate 3.5points
Dinner - Roast Chicken Subway 6.5 points & 2 cookies 9 points YUM!
Total today: 30 Points
Excercise: Walk to and From Train & Dance Class.

Wednesday 08.02.12 ( 111.5 at 6.20am)
Normal Allocation - 21 Points
Breakfast: 3.5 point smoothie
Snack - 1 Apple and 1 orange 2 points
Lunch -SUSHI!!!! 5 points
Dinner - 2 homemade hawaiian pizza -10.5 points
Total Today: 21 Points
Excercise:None

Thursday 09.2.12 ( 111.9 at 6.10am)
Minus 1 - 20 Points
Breakfast - 3.5 point smoothie
Snack -1 Apple 1 point
Lunch -Ham salad with Cheese 4 points
Snack - 1 orange 1 point
Dinner - Cheese and a bun 8 points,
Total Today:17.5 points
Excercise: Walk to and From Train adn 1/2 hour of squash

Friday 10.02.12 ( 111.1 at 6.10am) TTOTM
Minus 4 - 17 points
Breakfast - 1 egg 1.5 points
Snack - 1 Apple 1 point
Lunch - Tuna Salad with Cheese 4 points
Dinner - Homemade Lasagna - YUM YUM YUM
Total Today - 20 points
Excercise:None.

February Photo Challenge Update

2012-02-10T18:31:00.000+13:00

Day 7 - Button

This is the buttons I push during the day to chase my debtors

Day 8 - Sun

This is the sun at 5pm while waiting to catch the train home

Day 9 - Front Door

Our front door!

Day 10 - Self Portrait

This is was me at 8am this morning ready to begin my working day

Never Give Up

2012-02-09T02:25:00.001+13:00

I borrowed the above from And then she saved!

It serves me well with all different aspects of my life. The words with this, as shown on the post,are great as well:

Everyday take small steps and do the next right thing; before you know it your life will be changed.

When things get difficult and when we want to give up that's when it's most important that we keep going. It's in those times that we have to keep fighting for our dreams and goals.
It's in the persevering that the success happens

Goals and Rewards...............

2012-02-08T08:17:00.000+13:00

Lately I have been thinking about my weight loss goals and what I am wanting to achieve.

The ultimate is to get to around 65-70kgs!

But thats a long way off.

My immediate goal is to get back to the lowest weight that I have been which was 102kg.
This was in October 2009, I was so close to going under 100 I could taste it - problem being I could also taste all the other treats in life and they won!

Hence I went back to nearly the heaviest I have ever been (less 4kgs!)

So WHEN I get to 102kg what will my reward be?

I have decided it will be the following:

A DAY OFF WORK

A FACIAL

A TRIP TO THE MOVIES

A NEW ITEM OF CLOTHING

I can't wait for that day to arrive, and it will arrive and it will be soon!

February Photo Challenge

2012-02-06T18:03:00.001+13:00

Here are the next set of Photos for the challenge

Day 4- A Stranger

This is the dance teacher and organiser from the

Ladies Play Workshop I did and I didn't talk to them so strangers to me still!

Day 5 - 10am

This is what I was doing at 10am today - wrapping my friends birthday present

Looks like a big lollie!

Day 6 - Dinner

Homemade Hawaiian Pizza - YUM!

Nana Turns 90!

2012-02-06T07:31:00.001+13:00

On the 14th January 2012 my Nana turned 90!

She still lives at home alone and just got her drivers license renewed for another two years!

Amazing Right!

Her son came over from Canada to see her and along with him and my aunty we celebrated her birthday with family and friends.

My aunt and uncle got a photographer in to help celebrate the occasion

Here are some photos from the day.

The Family

Just the Kids

Nana and the kids

Radical Self Love....................

2012-02-05T05:47:00.002+13:00

From Gala Darlings Post on Radical Self Love (love the Pinkness of it all)

I could not believe my eyes the other day when something special popped up to the right in my Great Reads Section - Gala was posting about Radical Self Love and a special!

I rushed on over and screamed YES YES YES - she was having a sale - half price for the Radical Self Love Boot Camp - I have been wanting to do this for so long but was being tight with my money - $100.00 USD is a lot here in NZ but she was offering it for half price - YES USD$50.00.

I wiped out the credit card and yell SOLD!!!

Yay I am now the proud owner of this course and am about to devour all that is within the sacred pages of Radical Self Love.

She is also posting all month long other tit bits of Radical Self Love! so go check it out!

Weekly Weigh In..............

2012-02-04T17:57:00.001+13:00

Last Week 112.1

This Week 111.5

WOO HOO Lost .600

Total lost Now 6.8kg!

Thoughts on the Week:

Lets just say I am glad there is a loss this morning - The whole week felt like I was back peddling the whole time and it was an effort.

It started off with a binge and then not the best choices but I managed to pull it back in for a good loss.

So this week - I will be back on track as I want to get under 110kg if possible!

Saturday 28.1.12 (112.1 at 7.30am)
Plus 10 - 31 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg 1.5 points
Lunch - 2 bread rolls, ham and coleslaw 7 points
Dinner -PIGGY PIGGY PIGGY!
Total Today: Round it out at 31 Points
Excercise: NONE

Sunday 29.01.12 (at 8am) Too scared to look!
Minus 2 - 19 Points
Breakfast - PIGGY
Lunch - Piggy
Dinner - Piggy!
Total today: Round it out to 19 Points!
Excercise:

Monday 30.01.12 ( 113.3 at 7.30am)
Plus 1 - 22 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg 1.5 points
Lunch - 1 Lamb Kebab
Dinner - Buns and chicken
Total today: 22ish points
Excercise: 50 minutes of Squash

Tuesday 31.1.12( 113.1 at 6.15am)
Plus 1 - 22 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg 1.5 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 point
Lunch - Ham salad with Cheese 4 points
Snack - 1 orange .5 point
Dinner - Roast Chicken Subway 6.5 points 1 cookie 4 points YUM!
Total today: 17 points
Excercise: Dance Class.

Wednesday 01.02.12 (112.5 at 6.15am)
Normal Allocation - 21 Points
Breakfast: Yoghurt 1 point, Milk 1.5 points, banana 1 point = 3.5 points
Snack - 1 egg 1.5 points
Lunch -SUSHI!!!! 5 points
Dinner - Assorted Salad, bread roll, chicken drumstick, sausage (dinner at Andreas)
Total Today: 21 Points
Excercise:NONE

Thursday 03.2.12 ( 112.9at 6am)
Minus 1 - 20 Points
Breakfast - Smoothie 3.5 points
Snack - 1 Small Orange .5 point
Lunch - Salad-0, Feta-1 pt, Tuna 1 pt, dressing .5 - Total 2.5 points
Dinner - Chicken Wrap 7 points and chips 6.5 points
Total Today: 20 points
Excercise: ~~50 Minute Squash Game-~~Cancelled on me! so NONE

Friday 03.02.12 ( 112.4 at 7.30am)
Minus 4 - 17 points
Breakfast - 1 egg 1.5 points
Snack - Piece of cheese 2 points
Lunch - Roast Chicken Subway 6.5 points
Dinner - Meatballs , veges, Potato 7 points
Total Today - 17 points
Excercise:NONE

Ladies Body Movement & Styling Workshop.......

2012-02-04T06:55:00.006+13:00

Source

I am off to a Ladies Play workshop today!!!!!!!!
It is being held at the Lorne Street Studio in Auckland City. I haven't been to this studio yet so am looking forward to it as this is where a LOT of the good dancers come from.

The teacher/instructor is a lady who has done lots of different dance styles and is very elegant yet sexy with her moves!

The course description:

Why is warm up so important and how to do it properly?

How to improve and work on your body isolation / body waves and general body movement

Striking a good pose: "how to" and "when to"?

Basic rules of arm styling

Leg styling

Coming out of dips

Coming out of turns

Hair play

What's a sexy face and how to use it

Can't wait as it will be so much fun - learning more about how to have the wow factor when dancing. Sometimes it is hard to know what to do and when to do it when dancing.
I am going with my dancing friend Andrea, so at least I won't feel like a complete prat all by myself!

Will update about the course tomorrow.

Photo a Day Challenge

2012-02-03T15:30:00.001+13:00

Since I am starting a bit late - here are the first three to bring me up to date:

Day One - My View Today

Hubby and Liam riding off to school in the morning

Day Two = Words

This is a photo of my birth information from when I was born at Papakura Maternity Home.

Day Three - Hands
Courtneys hands and nails - all nice and colourful

So thats me up to date

Look out for more tomorrow!

Febuary Photo a Day...............

2012-02-03T06:34:00.001+13:00

Photo Day as Inspired at Fat Mum Slim

The lovely Amanda at Fragments of A Drama Queen alerted me to this fun "challenge" at Fat Mum Slim which I think I will pertake in.

I am starting a bit late but will catch up and the first three will be from todays happenings.

Come join us

10 Things to do this Weekend................

2012-02-02T06:36:00.003+13:00

The lovely Jacque at A quirky Girls Thoughts has a great post on things to do in the weekend.

Loving the pictures she has used and the wonderful ideas

Go check her out and see what you are inspired to do this weekend

What weighs the Same as..........................

2012-02-01T06:46:00.002+13:00

ME Right Now

The Yinghuo Orbiter

Source

This Giant Catfish

Source

John Travolta in 2011

Source

Frustrations..............

2012-01-31T12:50:00.000+13:00

ARGH...................

The last couple of days have been hard food wise for me!

It all started on Saturday for some strange reason when I thought, whilst doing the shopping, lets get a few treats for me - low fat options of course.

So I got some hummus - smallest container - so I could portion it out some to have with the rice crackers we had in the cupboard.
I also brought a small container of sherbert as it was on special to try.
Also a 2 pack of some chocolate mousse.
And also some buns with ham and coleslaw for our lunch that day!

Lets just say - buy the morning of Sunday not alot of the above was left!

Sunday wasn't much better - snacking away

Monday - I had a lamb kebab for lunch (The works one!)

ARGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BUT, I am back on track today and it is a low point day for sure!

I think it all came about thru boredom and thinking I can allow a few little treats into the house for me!
When clearly it is too soon for those!

So the next couple of days I will chug the water down, eat sensibly and try and incorporate a bit more excercise into my day!

Wish me luck!

Weekly Weigh In....

2012-01-28T08:12:00.001+13:00

Last Week 112.7

This Week 112.1

WOO HOO Lost .600

Total lost Now 6.2kg!
Thoughts on the week:
Overall a very good food week, altho the bcon and pinepple homemade pizza throught the scales and body out of wack with the sodiu in the bacon!
I really need to be wary of this!

Back walking to work so that is helping and with a couple of squash games thrown in the mix as well the week was good.

I will try and incorporate a little bit more excercise this week and am still working on alternatives for breakfast and lunch options!

Any way here is the food journal for the week

Saturday 21.1.12 (112.7 at 8am)
Plus 1 - 22 Points
Breakfast -1 egg and 2 slices of toast 4.5 points
Lunch - Roast Chicken Subway and 1 cookie 10.5
Dinner -Chicken 4 points, salad , cheese 2 points,Potato 1 point
Total Today: 22 Points
Excercise: NONE

Sunday 22.01.12 (112.6 at 8am)
Minus 2 - 19 Points
Breakfast - 2 egg omlette with cheese 5 points
Lunch - Hamburger Bun 2.5 points, Lrge Banana 1.5 points
Snack - Banana 1 point
Dinner - Quiche, Potato, Veges,9 Points
Total today: 19 Points
Excercise:50 minute Squash Game

Monday 23.01.12 ( 112.8 at 6am)
Minus 4 - 17 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and 1 slice of toast 3 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 point
Lunch - Tuna salad with Cheese 3 points
Snack - 1 small peach .5 point
Dinner - Potato, salad, 1/2 cup rice,1 egg
Snack - Large Banana
Total today: 17
Excercise: Walk to and from work and 50minute Squash Game

Tuesday 24.1.12(111.9 at 6am)
Plus 10 - 31 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and 2 slices of Toast 4.5 points
Snack - Mango 3 and Hot Chocolate 2 points
Lunch - Ham Salad with Cheese 4 points, Bread Roll 2 points
Snack - Chocolate (Greens & Blacks 70% Cocoa) 3.5 point
Dinner - Roast Chicken Subway 6.5 points 1 cookie 4 points YUM!
Total today: 29.5 points
Excercise: Walk to and from Work and Dance Class

Wednesday 25.01.12 (112.4 at 6am)
Normal Allocation - 21 Points
Breakfast: 1 egg and 2 slices of toast 4.5
Snack - 1 small apple .5 point
Lunch -SUSHI!!!! 6 points
Dinner -Homemade Pizza (bacon and Pineapple) 10 points YUM!
Total Today: 21 Points
Excercise:NONE

Thursday 26.1.12 (112.8 at 6am)
Minus 1 - 20 Points
Breakfast - 1 Egg and 1 slice of toast 3 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 point
Lunch - Tuna Salad with Cheese 4 points
Dinner - Chicken Wrap and chips
Total Today: 20 Points
Excercise: Walk to and From work

Friday 27.01.12 ( 112.7 at 6.30am)
Minus 4 - 17 points
Breakfast - 1 egg 1.5 points
Lunch -Roast Chicken Subway 6.5 points
Dinner - 2 Wraps, 1 chicken sausage, salad
Total Today - 17 points
Excercise:NONE

Simple Living..........

2012-01-27T16:55:00.000+13:00

Living a Busy Stressful Life?

Feeling the pressures of Life?

Just can't see any way to break free of the stress?

How about you check out this great blog - Kanelstrand and take the Simple Living Pledge
This is what Sonya has to say about Simple Living:

What is Simple Living?

Identifying what is most important for you and eliminating everything else.
Freeing up time for doing what inspires you and being with the people you love.
Decluttering your mind, your everyday life and your virtual life.
Single-tasking and learning to diminish stress.
Striving to live frugally by wanting less and buying only what is necessary.
Slowing down and being actively present in the moment.
Living a healthy life, including cleaning your home and your body, eating, exercising and thinking.
Striving to be green and sustainable as much as your surroundings allow.
Enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
Simplifying your goals, tasks and expectations.

So what are you waiting for - go check her out!

The three week challenge starts on 1st February - so hurry and help create the life you deserve!

See ya there

My Special K Personal Plans

2012-01-25T12:51:00.002+13:00

I thought I would look into the Special K plans that they are advertising and I had seen on a few blogs I read, so I headed over to their site at http://www.myspecialk.com.au/ to check it out.

I set up my account as was required before I could go any further in the site.

You are then asked to enter in your current weight and your height.

Done..................

Then the screen goes "cloudy" and the following popped up:

We calculated your BMI to be either below 18.5 or 40 and over. Unfortunately we don’t have a plan that meets your needs. Why not speak to your Doctor or an Accredited Practicing Dietitian (APD) for an eating and exercise plan that is specific for you.

ARGH!!! - I am either Too Skinny or Too FAT! for this site!

I am guessing its not the first part!

OMG my BMI is in the morbidly obese section!

Now don't get me wrong I know I am overweight but I guess the reality of seeing the Morbidly Obese next to my BMI was like a kick in the big fat guts!

I checked what I need to get down to in the Healthy Weight Range and I need to lose just over 50kgs more from what I weighed at my last weigh in! - Eek that is tiny!

It surely has reinforced my desire to lose this weight once and for all! Cause I want it bad enough!

Source

Loving me some Pink!

2012-01-24T12:24:00.000+13:00

I "Borrowed" this image from A Quirky Girl

Who has the loveliest blog I have seen

I love how she makes these images above

and how positive her blog is

Go check her out!

Family Fun Day............

2012-01-22T18:53:00.000+13:00

Source

We headed to watch Auckland City FC play against Waikato FC
at Kiwitea Street in Sandringham
It was a good game altho the final score was 0-0.

It was a great day spent as a family - having fun and watching football

Weigh In Day!

2012-01-21T08:09:00.000+13:00

Last Week 114.00

This Week 112.7

WOO HOO Lost 1.3

Total lost Now 5.6kg!

Thoughts on the Week:

Well firstly so pleased with this weeks loss of 1.3kg! and so proud of myself for the total lost so far of 5.6kg!
I am focused this time and it feels great. No snacking is a bit part of it and incorporating excercise and the water is also helping!
I need to try and organise some changes for breakfast and lunch ideas but otherwise all good!
I start back taking the train on Monday so will have more excercise in my week, and it is a short week for me - I have Friday off!
I also have two squash games organised for this week.

Anyway here is my food diary for the week thats been.

Saturday 14.1.12 (114.0 at 8am)Plus 10 - 31 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and 1 piece of toast 3 points
I missed lunch as I was getting ready for my Nanas 90th Birthday afternoon.
So once there the "diet" went out the window a bit so will make this my high day. We were there from 1pm till 8.30pm.
Total Today: Lets round it off at 31 Points
Excercise: NONE

Sunday 15.01.12 (114.6 at 8am)
Minus 2 - 19 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg 1.5 points
Hot Chocolate with Chris - 2 points
Snack - 2 bread rolls 2 points
Lunch - 1/2 cup rice 1.5 points and some chicken 3 points
Dinner - Salad dressing 1 point, baked potato - 1 point, chicken 4 points and cheese - 3 points
Total today: 19 points
Excercise:NONE

Monday 16.01.12 (114.5 at 6.15am)
Minus 4 - 17 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and 1 slice of toast 3 points
Snack - Cherry Tomatoes 0 points
Lunch - Tuna salad with cheese - 3 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 points
Dinner - Wraps 6 points, cheese, rice, sausage, salad 4.5 points
Total today: 17 points
Excercise: NONE

Tuesday 17.1.12(114.4 at 6.15am)
Plus 1 - 22 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and 1 slice of toast 3 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 point
Lunch - Tuna salad with Cheese - 3 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 point
Dinner - Roast Chicken Subway 6.5 points 1 cookie 4 points YUM!
Total today: 17.5 Points
Excercise: Dance Class

Wednesday 18.01.12 (113.1 at 6.15am)
Normal Allocation - 21 Points
Breakfast: 1 egg and 1 slice of Toast 3 points
Snack - 1 small orange .5 point
Lunch -SUSHI!!!! 6 points
Dinner -Homemade Hawaiian Pizza (Wraps 6, Ham 2, Cheese 2, Pineapple 1.5)11.5 points
Total Today: 21 points
Excercise: 30-40 min bike ride

Thursday 19.1.12 (113.3 at 6.20am)
Minus 1 - 20 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and 1 slice of toast 3 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 point
Lunch - Ham salad with cheese 4 points
Dinner - Homemade Hawaiian Pizza -11.5 points
Total Today: 19 points
Excercise: 50 Minutes of Squash

Friday 20.01.12 (113.1 at 6.25am)
Minus 4 - 17 points
Breakfast - 1 egg 1.5 points
Snack - Peaches in clear juice 1 point
Lunch -Tuna Salad with cheese 3 points
Snack - Peaches in clear juice 1 point
Dinner - Homemade hamburger and chips (Bun 2.5. Meat 2, Cheese 1) Chips 5
Total Today - 17 Points
Excercise: NONE

Healthy Valentine Swap

2012-01-19T20:59:00.000+13:00

Hey there go check out Kenlie at All the Weigh she is doing a valentine swap, I have enrolled just in case someone wants to do International (Kenlie is in America).

While there check out her great blog!

She has lots of great motivational posts!

So go check her out!

MUST BRAG!!!!!!!!!!!

2012-01-18T07:47:00.000+13:00

Source

Well I must brag!

Last night at Dance class I was so good!

We have lollies on the sign in table where I sit and greet the dancers, well - last night I did not have any of the lollies!!
Not one past these lips and I am so proud of myself!
Ususally I am snacking on them all night!

I also participated in all three of the classes and enjoyed them all - altho my feet were feeling the burn at the end of the evening!

Our Pets - The Frogs

2012-01-16T06:47:00.011+13:00

After my lovely catch up with Chris at Diet Coke Rocks and her mentioning about our frogs and how she is getting some herself - I thought why not show you them:

Here they are sitting on a rock waiting
Hubby takes a section of the lawn and places it inside the tank
along with some rocks at the bottom and a couple of larger
rocks for them to sit on, he also places a bit a bit of wood in there for them
as well to sit on and view the world, Then fills it up with some water and
neutalises it like you would with a fish bowl.

A closer view of them

This is the top - the orange and white part is what Hubby uses to put the flies in.
Hubby made the top so they can't jump out, altho they know where the flies
come from and have a couple of times managed to jump up and pop open
the orange lid and get out. We now have to keep a heavy item on top of the
orange lid so that they don't get out.

These are my sons ones in a smaller container, these ones have a slightly smaller
piece of lawn placed in and the water is just an old glass container.
Along with some branches for sitting on.
You can't see it but this container has an opening on the top to
drop the flies into.

A close up of one of them who is just sitting around
waiting for his lunch!

There they are - the one closest to us just tried to catch a fly that was on the outside

We have had the two in the larger tank for about 4 years. The kids and I gave them to hubby one christmas as tadpoles, as he can be hard to buy for sometimes!

The smaller ones we have had nearly two years and again from tadpoles.

Hubby catches the flies by hand - an art form he perfected as a child when he use to have a pet frog.

Altho in winter when the weather gets colder we usually need to buy them from the pet shop.

So there you have it - our frogs

Does anyone else have unusual pets??

Making New Friends

2012-01-15T18:56:00.000+13:00

Today I made a new friend!

I got to catch up with the lovely Chris at Diet Coke Rocks!

We had a great morning talking away - in fact we met up at 10am and didn't leave until after 12pm!

Not to bad for a couple of chicks that just met today for the first time!

Love to catch up again soon Chris!

Oh and she posted a photo of me! and funny as I was getting ready this morning I threw on an outfit and then thought - no - better wear something else cause she just might take a photo!

So glad I didn't rock on up in my t-shirt afterall.

Quiet afternoon helping out a friend with things on the computer so not much else achieved.

Will update on my Nanas birthday later in the week when I have the photos!

Weigh In Day!

2012-01-14T09:00:00.001+13:00

Last week: 115.1 kg

This week: 114.00

WOOHOO a loss of 1.1kgs!

My Thoughts on the week:

It was good - not a lot of excercise but thats ok, I slowed down a bit this week on the water so that needs to get back up.
I am also needing to look into more breakast and lunch options to help spice up the menu plan.
But overall happy with it
TTOTM arrive on Friday morning so that wouldn't help matters but hey 1.1 lost is ok with me!

Here is my Food Journal for the past Week

Saturday 07.1.12 (115.2 at 7pm)
PLUS ONE - 22 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and two pieces of Toast - 4.5 points
Snack - Scone 1 - 5 points and lollies 4 points
Lunch - Salad with ham, cheese, bun - 4 points
Dinner - WW frozen Meal - Chicken Hot Pot 4.5
Total Today: 22 Points
Excercise: NONE

Sunday 08.01.12
MINUS TWO - 19 Points (115.1 at 7am)
Breakfast - 1 egg and two slices of toast 4.5 points
Lunch - Salad with ham,cheese and 1 bun - 5.5 points
Dinner - Two wraps with mince,rice and some egg - 9 points
Total today: 19 points
Excercise: NONE

Monday 09.1.12 (114.8 at 6.15am)
Minus 4 - 17 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and 1 slice of toast 3 points
Snack - 1 orange - .5 point
Lunch - Ham salad with cheese 4 points
Dinner - Pasta, Veges and 1 sausage 9.5 points
Total today: 17 points
Excercise: Dance class

Tuesday 10.1.12 (114.6 at 6.15am)
Plus 10 - 31 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and 2 slices of toast 4.5 points
Snack - 1 Apple and 1 Orange 1 point
Lunch - Roast Chicken Subway and 1 MnM Cookie 10.5 points
Afternoon Snack - 4 squares of chocolate (Green & Blacks Organic 70% Cocoa) 3.5points
Dinner - Chicken Breast, baked potoato, veges - 10.5 points
Total today: 30 points (1 spare opps)
Excercise: Water Walking 30 minutes

Wednesday 11.1.12 (114.6 at 6.15am)
Normal Allocation - 21 Points
Breakfast: 1 egg and 2 slices of toast 4.5 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 points
Lunch - Sushi 6 points
Snack - 1 orange .5 points
Dinner - Homemade Pizza - Wrap 3 points, ham 2 points, cheese 2 points, pineapple 1
Total Today:21 Points
Excercise: ~~45minutes of squash~~ boo hoo cancelled on me! so NONE

Thursday 12.1.12 (114.7 at 6.15am)
Minus 1 - 20 Points
Breakfast - 1 egg and 1 slice of toast 3 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 points
Lunch - Tuna salad with cheese 3.5 points
Snack - 1 small orange .5 points
Dinner - Roast Potato, veges, cheese sauce, small rissole - 12.5 points
Total Today: 20 Points
Excercise:1 hour and 20 Minutes of Squash

Friday 13.01.12 (114.4 at 6.15am) TTOTM ARRIVED in am
Minus 4 - 17 points
Breakfast - 1 Egg and 1 Slice of Toast 3 points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 point
Lunch - Tuna Salad with Cheese 3.5 Points
Snack - 1 small apple .5 point
Dinner - Chicken, rice and salad
Snack - Some Purdys Chocolate from Canada!
Total Today - 17 Points
Excercise: NONE

Self Help for Dummies.........

2012-01-13T07:59:00.001+13:00

Craig Harpers last email is very brief and to the point!

1. Don’t eat what you don’t need.

2. Stop doing what doesn’t work.

3. In most instances, the solution is you.

4. Getting offended is optional. As is getting off your fat arse. See how that works?

5. Changing fifty things at once is a bad plan.

6. Knowing isn’t doing. Do more.

7. Joining a gym isn’t attending a gym.

8. Being smart is not the same as doing smart.

9. Intentions aren’t actions. Stop intending.

10. You won’t undo three decades of bad choices in three weeks. Be realistic.

11. Be more committed to success than comfort.

12. Control your controllables and let go of the rest.

Squash Game Tonight and Tomorrow!

2012-01-11T14:55:00.001+13:00

Source

Whilst I don't look like Carla Khan above - we do both enjoy a game of squash!

I have booked in tonight and tomorrow night to play squash with different people.
I am really looking forward to it and I am hoping to arrange a weekly game with each of the ladies so that I am playing at least twice a week.
Which will not only help my game, it will improve my fitness levels and also make very good use of my membership!

Fingers crossed I am feeling ok tomorrow!

Healthy Lifestyle Journey Update:

I am still on track, eating well and drinking lots of water.
I haven't been tempted to snack yet so that is good. I will have a big test this weekend at my grandmothers 90th Birthday gathering.
We have an "open house" from 2-4pm with nibbles and then a big shared dinner, I am taking a lettuce salad and am thinking of making it as follows"

Two bags of the mixed leaves (as it has to be a large salad)
Cherry Tomatoes halved
Red Onion -sliced or chopped
Grated carrot
Maybe some capsicum (sliced or chopped)
Feta cheese cubes?
And then toss with a balsamic vinegrette.

Does this sound good?
Thoughts and suggestions PLEASE!

Ten on Tuesday..........

2012-01-10T07:54:00.000+13:00

1. I am tired! - Didn't get to bed till 11pm last night due to getting back late from dance class
2. Loved Dance Class
3. Learnt some great new moves.
4. Got to catchup with some friends and have a good laugh
5. Unfortuantely no eye candy - but hey thats life!
6. I have sore toes and feet from not having danced for nearly a month!
7. Love that I got to do a form of excercise I love.
8. It was hot and humid so lots of sweating!
9. Which also means lots of water consummed!
10. Did I mention I loved it!

Dancing Tonight!...........

2012-01-09T11:16:00.001+13:00

Woo Hoo - I am off to a dance class tonight! Can't wait!
My usual classes don't start till next Tuesday so my friends and I are heading off to Pakuranga tonight to go to another class as we are missing dancing!
So looking forward to it and it is good to go to other classes as you can pick up new moves and sometimes with a different teacher explaining something a different way it all of a sudden finally clicks in place and I am able to "get" what they are all talking about!

Lets hope theres some nice eye candy!!!

Weigh In and Weekend Away Update

2012-01-08T21:01:00.000+13:00

Well first the good news!

Weigh in on Saturday morning saw:

A Loss of 3.2 kilos!!! - Whoop Whoop

To say I am happy is an understatement

This has been a great start to my new lifestyle journey!

Now to the weekend away at my BFF's - it was great.

I got lots of organising done for my heritage album and I also completed 11 pages in the album as well.

I ate well and stayed on track even when they were all "Oh just have a little piece, it won't hurt, blah blah blah!

I am proud of how I handled myself over the weekend - only thing I would do different - probably incorporate some excercise - like a small walk!

But overall best weekend so far for 2012!

Weekend Away...........

2012-01-06T11:45:00.001+13:00

Woo hoo I am off for a weekend at my BFF's

starting tonight straight after work I will drive to her place!

No Children!

No Husbands!

No Worries!!

We are spending it scrapbooking

Yup I am getting my Geek on!

I have brought with me my Heritage Album

It is a hard one to do with both parents now past but I have

put it off long enough

This weekend I will tackle the mountain of memories

I have and get them into order

and then

into an Album!

Weight in tomorrow morning as well

And how sad am I

I have brought my scales with me!

I won't be able to post until home on Sunday.

But rest assure

It will be a good one!

Argh - Pinterest...................

2012-01-05T20:01:00.000+13:00

Argh - bugger you Pinterest - you take up way to much of my time!
We need a break
I know I have only just met you but you are consuming my life.
All the possibilities with creating you show me
And the amazing orgnaising ideas are blowing me away
Not to mention the wonderful pictures of amazing Christmas decorations
HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yup just wasting yet another evening looking thru pinterest when I should be getting reading for my weekend of scrapbooking with my BFF!!!

Looks like a late nite ahead for me!

Back to Work.......

2012-01-04T10:19:00.000+13:00

Found this in our computer

Created by our lovely daughter

Back to work today - boo hoo!

And a busy day with it - end of month to be completed along with helping customer service with keying of our customer orders.

Should make the day go faster!

Hoping to get out for a walk tonight - or maybe a game of squash would be fun? - need to track someone down for that!

Oh the scales smiled nicely this morning!

Biking.................

2012-01-03T06:18:00.001+13:00

We managed to get in our bike ride yesterday at the Botanical Gardens:
It was fun , altho I am unfit (as I knew) and we only lasted 50 minutes.

But it was fun and I got to spend some special one on one with my little man!
Oh and we learnt on the way out that we weren't meant to be riding our bikes there - opps!

Self Portrait!

Me taken by Liam

Taking a break

Holidays Ramblings

2012-01-02T08:24:00.000+13:00

I have been pottering around my house these last few days I have off.
I am in the middle of decluttering and moving furniture around to see what works best were!

I have also reduced the blogs I follow as it was getting out of hand and I was only really reading a few (lots of craft ones tho - that is the hardest one to sort out!)
I have also reduced "my friends" on facebook and am only going to keep it at 100 - there were a lot that I knew but never saw in person and our lives aren't that connected so I thought best to remove them from facebook, I am going to have a think about a couple more and may even drop a few more.
It does feel good to be reducing things in my life - lets hope the weight follows soon!.

Hubby is busy getting ready for a sports holiday programme is going to be running for the 3 full weeks of Janaury.
My daughter is currently in Huntly staying with a friend for a few days
And my little man is "making do" with playing around the house and constently asking to do this and that of which we say no (roll on payday! - it sucks monthly pays!)

Weightloss journey is going good - I need to get out and have a walk or a bike ride today - maybe thats something Liam and I can do together - maybe the Botanical gardens??

Well thats me for today - must also try and get in some crafting!

January Goals............

2012-01-01T06:10:00.003+13:00

From Courage Hope Strength website

1. Get Back to walking to work!

2. Try and be creative at least once a week

3. Continue decluttering

4. Load up at least 5 items onto trademe

5. Focus on me and what makes me happy

These are my goals for the month of January!

I hope I can complete them all!

New Years Eve.........................

2011-12-31T17:54:00.000+13:00

From Hope Strength Courage Tumblr

Well this morning I hopped onto the scales to see what I am weighing at the end of 2011!

It wasn't pretty!

I am up 2.8 kilos from my last weigh in which was about 2 weeks ago!

BUT

Thats ok - I have eaten well today and I have also completed one hours worth of squash!

Yay me!

I am going back to the Wendie Plan version of Weight Watchers Points

I have done this before and I lost good amounts with it.

I am going to weigh myself again tomorrow morning so I have

the starting number for 2012!

PLEASE let it be lower!

Five on Friday.................

2011-12-30T06:52:00.000+13:00

From Pinterest.

1. I am grateful for my loving family and all that they mean to me.

2. I am grateful for refocusing on what is needed to regain financial control.

3. I am grateful for having the strength to take back control of my weight loss journey.

4. I am grateful for being blessed with creativeness as it makes me feel truly happy.

5. I am grateful for all that I possess in my life at this moment in time.

WORK.....................

2011-12-29T08:58:00.000+13:00

From Hope-Courage-Strength Tumblr

Working again today!

But

Hopefully I can be creative tonight!

Family Outing...................

2011-12-26T21:02:00.001+13:00

Southern Cross and Pointers - From Google Images

On Christmas Eve, hubby and I took the kids to the Auckland Stardome.

To see the show at 8pm about what can be seen in the sky on a summer night!

It was ok - informative - but not quite what we were expecting, but I think we might need to try them again when they have more of a story one being shown.

One of the kids enjoyed it, the other not so much. Hubby and me - Take it or Leave it!

We weren't able to look thru the big telescope as the night sky was cloudy but they did give us all a rain check voucher (good for six months) so that we can go back and view the sky - so that was good.

So that is the first of my family outings for my 44 Things List!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2011-12-25T07:28:00.000+13:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS

TO YOU

HOPE YOU HAVE A FABULOUS DAY

STAY SAFE

Christmas Preparation......................DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-12-23T15:25:00.000+13:00

From Tumblr

Well as of 3pm today -all my christmas preparations and wrapping is done!

It feels great!

I spent the morning making chocolate covered pretzels

(not the ones pictures above but close!)

I must remember to start photographing what I do more!

All presents are wrapped and ready under the tree or

hiding waiting for tomrrow night!

All thats left is dinner tonight with the outlaws!

YAH!!!!!!!!

Ramblings and Thoughts..................

2011-12-21T07:56:00.000+13:00

From Hope Courage Strength Website

- Christmas is nearly here- four more sleeps to go.............
- My Dancing classes have finished for the year - boo hoo!
- I am finishing up the photo blocks tonight - yah!
- I will then create a voucher for my daughter for a day at the beauty therapist getting her brows and lashes done along with a manicure and pedicure!
- Need to get a few more treats for hubbys hamper
- On Friday the kids and I will create the outlaws gift of chocolate covered pretzel sticks.
- Then the outlaws arrive at 6ish to do the gift exchange with the kids.
- We are also heading to the Observatory in Auckland on Saturday to see a show - I remembered yesterday that I still had some vouchers to go and they expire on Christmas Eve!

In regards to my Weight Loss Journey - things have taken a slight detour, I overate both nights in the past weekend and was not happy with myself.
I need to get back on track and will do so after Christmas day! - I know I should do it now but to be honest I can't be bothered! - Tired and slightly stressed are not good combinations for me!
I will however be going to squash on Thursday night so that will help a bit!

I am 90% sure I am attending the Kapiti-Hutt Ceroc champs on 16tha nd 17th March - so I need to sort my shite out asap so that I can loose some more weight for that.
My Battle of the Sexes Dance Partner - Andrea - wants us to do our Routine and I think the outfit we organised for last September is a bit tight now, so that is my goal to make sure that is fitting well and hopefully a bit looser than it was in September.
So I will use the next couple to days to work out the time line and amount I want to loose along with a plan of attack!

Wishing you all that read my little blog - a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

Lovely Package Exchange...............

2011-12-20T07:33:00.005+13:00

From Oh Hello Friend Package Exchange

I entered into the lovely package exchange on Oh hello Friends website whose website I find so inspiring.
Anyway the lovely Danni organised a package exchange and those outside of America got match up as best as she could.

I got the lovely Britt Kee who can be found at www.brittkee.com. who is located in Korea!

In my haste to get her parcel to her I forgot to photograph it - but luckily she has done a post about it - you can check it out here.

Pictures taken from Britt Kee's blog

It included some pens as I know she is an artist

Some keys - as mentioned in her quick bio for the exchange

Some cat ornaments as she loves cats

Little shapes to add to letters and packages

Some more tags for parcels

Some large plastic buttons

Dottie Tape

Plain Tags

Some papers with New Zealand scenes

And some Pineapple lumps - a Kiwi Favourite.

My parcel has just arrived as pictured below:

It is amazing - I love all of it - which includes

Korean Handmade Paper - Awesome

One of her watercolour prints - Awesome!

Wasbi tape - Love the colours

Lace Tape - LOVE LOVE LOVE This - have seen it on blogs but not up personal

Pink Package Tape - so cool

Messge in a bottle - LOVE this as well -so cute!

Timy pegs - Love them!

Pink Feathers - Cool

Pink Twine - Super Cool

Pink Think tinsel - Cute!

Little Prescription Pill Messages - Amazing and so cute!

Love it all!!! - A big thanks to Britt Kee for my wonderful parcel.
Also a big thank you to Danni for organising this exchange - will definetly do it again!

Part Time Hours Today............

2011-12-19T15:32:00.000+13:00

My morning was very eventful today!

I left home at 6.40am to walk to catch the train - no worries there - altho my body was "what the hell ya doing to me today!.

Got to the train - all good - altho the conductor mentioned that we had to get off at Otahuhu and wait for the shuttle train as they have started the maintenance on the trains already.

Ok I thought - should be good.

Off we go and at the third stop - we are waiting and waiting (about 10 minutes) then the next minute we are told that there has been a fatality at the Middlemore Hospital stop and we are to hop off the train and head to the bus stop as they will supply buses to take us to Otahuhu station

So off we all go .........................

Half an hour of waiting and we are finally told - nope head back to the train!

Off we go again - once on the train we are told that we are getting off at Puhinui station (three stops away)

Once at Puhinui station we walk up a temporary overramp towards the waiting buses.

Drive the equvilant of two more stops (passed the middlemore hopsital and there is lots of police and a stopped train!)

Hop off and walk to the Otahuhu Station and proceed to wait another 15 minutes for a two car train!

Finally got to my stop in Penrose (another two stations away) and began the 20 minute walk to work.

Arrived at 9.40am!

So three hours from door to door!

Oh and then tonight I am leaving at 4pm with a coworker who is going to drive me home since the train service sucks at the moment!

Yay - I get to enjoy a nice part time day on full time wages!! (will make the time up over the next couple of days - altho work is sweet about it all!)

So please Mr Universe can I have a non eventful remainder of the week!

THANKS!

Holidays are nearly here..

2011-12-17T07:34:00.001+13:00

Via Courage Hope Strength Website

I weighed in this morning......................

It is down but not by much but ya get that when TTOTM is near.

Busy weekend ahead

2 16th Birhtdays to go to (one boy and one girl)

Sons Cricket Game to attend

Hair Appointment

Xmas Exchange with BFF and her kids

Food Shopping

Santa Visiting

House Cleaning

Crafting - I hope

Oh the life I lead...........

Rain Rain Go Away!

2011-12-15T07:38:00.000+13:00

Well the weather here in Auckland sucks at the moment!

The rain and wind are horrible - made for interesting car trip into work this morning!

Lucky its not overly cold with it!

So today I am rugged up nice and cozy at work and then off to play me some squash tonight!

The scales are also moving in the right direction!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh and after being inspired by Chris at Diet Coke Rocks - who has recently purchased two presents already for next christmas - so have I!

Woo hoo - feels great to be ahead for a change!

Staying Positive...........

2011-12-13T07:52:00.001+13:00

From the Courage Hope Strength Website.

Another Rainy day today so no walking to work for me
But
I did play a game of squash last night
And
I had a yummy salad for dinner
But
I also had a large slice of Christmas cake
And
I know I shouldn't have
But
I will Stay Positive that I am still on a healthy path for a Healthier Lifestyle.

Worth It........

2011-12-12T11:28:00.001+13:00

From Heidi

Christmas Shopping

2011-12-10T16:05:00.001+13:00

Via - Gala Darling

I managed to get the last of my sons Santa presents yesterday - cricket pads and gloves for under 50.00 - very happy with that.

So that means - he is all finished - YAH!

Now to finish of my daughters "santa" presents and that is both of them done!

What do I have left to do?........................

Make 11 photo blocks for all of my Great Grandmothers grandchildren and a couple of adults!

Just need to get the wood cut up, painted and glue the photos on and all good to go!

Words of Wisdom.....

2011-12-07T08:38:00.000+13:00

An excerpt from Craig Harpers recent post about Instant Gratification, the below part reminded me of me....... - the me I want to forget

Then there’s the woman who has wanted to lose weight for years. And years. She constantly sabotages her weight-loss endeavours with her need for some instant taste-bud pleasure. Hour after hour. Day after day. Despite the fact that she hates how she looks and feels, her need for instant caloric gratification keeps her trapped on the slippery slope of over-eating, self-loathing and depression. Eating gives her instant (albeit fleeting) pleasure but not eating doesn’t give her instant weight-loss, so eating it will be.

I am trying to be the new me - the one who will do the hard yards to get to her weight loss goal, the one who changes her eating habits of a lifetime to ones that will stay with her into her new life of healthy eating and wellbeing.

The road is tough and I am sure I will stumble but as long as I get back up again I will win!

Happy Birthday to ME!.............

2011-12-04T07:38:00.001+13:00

Yup todays the day I turn 43!

I am up nice and early as I need to get my special needs brother in law up and ready to go out with his other brother, as hubby has a soccer tournament today.

I am then making a salad, crumbing the schnitzel for tonights dinner.

I am then out for lunch at St Margarets Gardens in Karaka for lunch with two of my very dear friends who have birthdays in December as well (tradition for us).

Then off to my last squash lesson, followed by picking up my grandmother, up who is coming over to have dinner with us tonight! I will also have a weigh in at squash which I am not sure how I will go this week as I was out last night and had a few salty things and I know that can play havoc with the weight.

Then I hope to have a nice quiet evening.

Another Week down.........

2011-12-02T14:04:00.000+13:00

And nearly another year down - eek!

I have a busy weekend ahead but wanted to stop and post my Five on Friday (which I haven't done for a while)

Today I am grateful for:

1. Staying on track with my eating this week

2. Committing to and following thru with walking to work today - despite the weather report.

3. Feeling in control of my finances.

4. Nearly completing my christmas shopping - woohoo!

5. Having a wonderful family who love me just the way I am!

December Already............

2011-12-01T10:34:00.000+13:00

WOW the year has gone by fast and we are now in December!

I am about 85% completed on my Christmas presents, just the remainder of the kids "santa" ones to be done and to create 10 photo blocks and 2 snowglobes.

But I also wanted to tell you about what is happening over at Gala Darlings Blog..............................

Source - Gala Darling

Lots of giveaways for the month of December, so go check her out!

Where I am At!

2011-11-28T07:30:00.003+13:00

Well lately life has been a bit too much for me to focus on my weight loss journey, so I have been just going thru the motions of surviving and if surviving is eating what eva then that is what I was doing.

BUT

Last week something changed in the head space and I had a great week food wise.

I am trying a hot lemon drink before all meals and also having fruit for breakfast and morning snacks.

This helped me loose 2.2kgs last week - woohoo!

This has really given me a good start for the journey and I am feeling back in control!

I have also been having lots of salads for dinner and not snacking in the evenings.

Now to get the enthusiasm to walk to work four days a week again.

I am also enjoying the Woman in Squash course and am seriously thinking about joining for the remainder of there year which will cost about $60.00 for 3 three months so not to bad as I will also get a racquet with the joining up.

I really want to get down at least another 5 kilos by 14 January as we are having family photos for my grandmothers 90th birthday, which is in about 7 weeks so I think that is totally doable!

The List Updated............

2011-11-24T08:10:00.001+13:00

Here is my new list of things to do before turning 44

1. Lose 12 kgs this year

2. Attend 2 walking events

3. Visit a Naturopath

4. Get a manicure

5. Get a pedicure

6. Have a facial

7. Purchase an expensive perfume

8. Purchase Goddess Leonie Circle Subscription ($99 AUD)

9. Listen to and complete the E-courses of Goddess Leonie’s

10. Purchase Gala Darlings Radical Self Love Boot camp ($100 USD)

11. Begin the Process of Radical Self Love

12. Purchase a new CD

13. Visit the Dentist

14. Complete one week without saying anything mean about someone else each month - This is more to try and stop bitching about those at work who pee me off!

15. Go to Caluzzi Bar with Friends

16. Go to one theatre event

17. Attend an auction house auction

18. Go to at least three different markets (Farmers or Craft)

19. Go to the movies at least 5 times either solo or with someone

20. Attend a community/night class (belly Dancing?)

21. Try a new alcoholic cocktail

22. Get Courtney’s Album completed up to end of 2010 at least

23. Get Liam’s Album completed up to end of 2010 at least

24. Complete Heritage Album

25. Ensure all old photos are in my album

26. Have a weekend away with Angela scrapbooking

27. Hand make 2012 Christmas cards

28. Complete Courtneys X-stitch for Angela

29. Finish Sewing on Guide Blanket

30. Attend a local concert

31. Have a BBQ at our place

32. Have three different sets of friends over for dinner

33. Travel somewhere in NZ – not soccer related!

34. See an outdoor movie

35. Take the kids up the sky tower ($50.00 for3, $61 for Family Pass-4)

36. Take Nana out at least 3 times

37. Organise and action at least 3 family outings

38. Got to at least 6 other Ceroc franchise classes.

39. Attend at least 2 other Ceroc franchise workshops

40. Declutter 100 Items – Can be sold, thrown, given away

41. Get our Wills up to date

42. Remove overdraft

43. Reduce spending on Visa

44. Increase repayments to PSIS Loan

Well I think all are achieveable and I am excited to see how many I get accomplished over the next 12 months.

Update.............

2011-11-22T12:57:00.000+13:00

Well life has been plodding along nicely with the following happening in my life:

Joined up a Womans in Squash Course - Loving it

Thinking of joining for three months

Went to a talk from a Naturopath and got some good weight loss pointers

Have created the 2011 Christmas Card - now to mass produce

Hubby is off to Fiji for 4 days this weekend

Christmas Shopping with My BFF on Friday

Summer Fun Buckets are nearly finished

Have got back into walking to work at least twice each week

Feeling a bit more in control on this weight loss path.

Loving that summer is on its way!

Still Here.......

2011-11-15T08:06:00.002+13:00

I am still here - alive and kicking!

So much on at the moment and focus is out the door.........

Argh this seems to be a very bad cycle that I am on

Time to sort it out .....................

October Month Goals - Updated

2011-11-03T11:06:00.000+13:00

I was so happy at the end of October to discover that I had completed all the month goals I set myself for October, while it wasn't a big list, is was at least achieveable and that makes me happy.

1. Get to the gym at least four times this month

Completed and Gym membership is now finished

2. Scrapbook 4 pages

Completed!

3. Have fish for dinner once this month

Completed - YUM

4. Load up at least 5 Trade me Auctions

Completed - Loaded up 18

5. Create Wedding GiftCompleted!

Things I love..........

2011-11-02T12:34:00.000+13:00

Things I am loving right now in no particular order

New Cellphone!

Getting photos printed off so I can scrapbook

Scrapbooking

Family time

Inspiration from the Net for Christmas Gifts

Being a bit more organised for Christmas

Sushi!

Time at home with family

Sleep

Great chats with my BFF

All the yummy spring/summer fruit to look forward to

Inspirational blogs

Walking again

Free excercise classes

Playing squash again

The List Update

2011-11-02T05:46:00.001+13:00

Well it is just over one calender month to my birthday and so I thought it was time to update my list of things to do from one birthday to another.

I know a few more will be completed but not eveything is going to be able to be crossed off and I am happy with that - I am making another list and will decide what to transfer over to the new list and what to let go of:

1. Buy a Bike I was lucky enough to be given one!

2. Complete a duathlon Completed 27.02.11 (Time 1.32)

3. Loose at least 20 kg (.4/20) Not going to happen this year :(

4. Complete my Heritage Album Not going to happen this year :(

5. Get Daughter’s Album completed up to the end of 2009 Completed 23.10.11

6. Get Son’s Album completed up to the end of 2009 Completed 23.10.11

7. Hand make all birthday cards
I am automatically making a tag or card for all gifts now - so accomplished

8. Complete a 10km walk - wont be completed this year

9. Do a Pilates Class

10. Make a Christmas Shoebox

11. Visit the Stardome Observatory

12. Attend a concert at a Local Park- Attended Elvis in the Park 13.2.11

13. Compete in the Tamahere Dance Champs in May 2011 Completed 14.05.11

14. See an Outdoor Movie

15. Make all 2011 Xmas Cards

16. Go to Devonport on the Ferry

17. Purchase Knee High Boots -I have been given some 07.08.11

18. Attend a Gold Glass Movie Saw Bridesmaids on 17.07.11

19. Go to Snow Planet Went 23.10.11

20. Have a BBQ at our place Completed 04.12.10

21. Get our Wills up to date - Won't be completed this year

22. Release 10 wishes on 10 balloons(5/10)

23. Remove overdraft

24. Pay off Visa and keep it low!

25. Get a Pedicure

26. Attend a community/night class - Completed a Burlesque Class

27. Work on my spinning with dancing which will help me with my confidence
With being in the teams for Champs my spinning and confidence is improving

28. Purchase an expensive perfume

29. Get a manicure
30. Complete 3 walking/cycling events(1/3) - Won't get completed before birthday no
31. Get a new Diary Purchased 05.12.10
32. Complete a minimum of 2 crafts per month off the computer list(3/24)
I have decided that this is not important anymore - if I havent done any since for the first six months of 2011 then they aren't worth stressing about for the rest of the year

33. Make a minimum of 2 cards per month(5/24)
I have decided to just make cards as I need them - so this is not worth stressing about.

34. Finish sewing on the badges to the guide blanket (pinned 15.05.11)

35. Have fish for dinner once a month(10/12)

36. Compete in the September East and South Ceroc Dance champs for 2011- Competed 03.09.11

37. Go evening swimming in Dec/Jan/Feb/March at least once a week(12/16)Completed
38. Complete 52 Scrapbook pages (52/52) Completed 23.10.11
39. Purchase some new walking sneakers Purchased 05.12.10
40. Purchase some new dance shoes Purchased 14.05.11
41. Get my eyes retested Completed 16.03.11
42. Get an iPod! Completed 19.06.11 but got an MP3 for now (alot Cheaper)
43. Learn how to apply eye make-up properly Not a priority now

Remember...............

2011-11-01T08:44:00.001+13:00

A lovely Reminder from Goddess Leonie over at the Goodess Guidebook.

Link Love on the right over there---------->

Lingerie Purchases........

2011-10-28T08:29:00.001+13:00

After having most of my bra underwires breaking on me, it was time to venture out to purchase some more as I was down to one!

Off I went to Farmers to try them on - remembering that this time last year was when I had last purchased some and was in a good place with my weight loss journey and at the lowest ever weight. My bra size then was a 16E.

I had been wearing those bras for the last year and had slowly been putting them under a lot of pressure due to me having put on at least 10 kgs over the course of the year(eek!), and in my naive mind I thought "oh I must be about an 18 maybe 20 at the most"

BUT no - those number were not to be seen on these lovely lady lumps!

The new number that is now gracing the girls is a 22C
Oh the shock and the shame!

The largest I had been was a 22DD!. - How did this happen I hear inner naive Lisa saying - we haven't been that bad have we?? - We aren't at our heaviest again?? Why oh Why!

And we all know it has only been my own doing - sneaky treats here and there - eaten in private but worn in public!

So it is time to knuckle down and do what needs to be done!

Starting tomorrow....................

Just kidding - starting now!

Things I Love Thursday

2011-10-27T12:23:00.000+13:00

Things I am loving............

Back walking and catching the train

Completing all the items on my To do List for the weekend

Scrapbooking again

Reading Awesome Blogs

Family Fun Days

Wrapping Xmas Presents

Buying Christmas Presents

Buying New Lingerie

Eating Healthly

Playing Squash Again

Finding free workout classes

Summer Sun Days in Auckland

Enjoying Dancing Again

Catch Up

2011-10-26T12:53:00.002+13:00

Just a quick catch up to report the last two days have been good - food wise - I walked to work yesteday and found it a bit hard for some reason, may be just tired or weary -who knows!

Also the underwire in my bra went -both of them! -Argh so the girls were pushed together hanging low all day and double boobing a couple of times - YUCK!

So glad I was wearing a loose top - but by the time I got home I had some rubbing under the breasts that was hurting!

Then this morning I noticed that on another bra one of the underwires has gone as well - so I guess I better get off to the Bendon Shop and get me some more - I know I have gone up a size as well since my last fitting -bugger it all!

Oh well - only my doing!

Labour Day Holiday

2011-10-24T12:03:00.000+13:00

WOO HOO Its a holiday here in NZ!!

and

the All Blacks WON the Rugby World Cup

Just

Final score 8-7

And with it being a public holiday - I am hoping to complete some more scrapbook pages and load up some unwanted items onto Trade Me.

This evening I plan on going to a nice walk as well - the day is a bit warm at the moment for my liking!

Family Day

2011-10-23T21:33:00.000+13:00

Looking up to the top

Well today was a family Fun day and we headed to Snow Planet for some snow fun!

The drive is about 1 hour from door to door which was a little bit longer than I thought.

But we got there - decided who was doing what - skiing or snowboards - the kids and me chose boarding and hubby decided on skiing.
We got all suited up, boots on and headed out!

The kids enjoyed themselves altho Courtney being so skinny felt the cold pretty quickly despite layering up.

Hubby and Courtney all ready to go

Hubby had the most fun - even tho its not really his thing

Liam found it a bit hard and started getting cold

Liam all ready to begin

And as for me - well I thought I could have managed the snowboarding but I couldn't and when I changed over to the skiing - the ski boots killed my calves! So I was in them for about 20 minutes and didn't even get to ski at all as the pain was too much.

I will admit that I was disappointed that I was unable to enjoy the day and thought that it would have gone a lot better but I guess at the end of the day when you are weighing 115kgs alot more effort is needed for sports orientated events.

Next time it will be better!

Creating

2011-10-22T14:43:00.001+13:00

Today I created these wedding presents for my two dear friends who are getting married on 11 November 2011.

I have covered up there names at the top.

The idea is totally cased from Nora at Just Make Stuff and I added each of there names onto the frames as well.

The idea is that they can use a whiteboard marker (which I will supply them) and leave little love notes to each other each day to remind them of why they love each other.

I am also trying to create another item for them - will show you if it all works out

Lost............

2011-10-21T09:57:00.000+13:00

Where do I begin...............

The last couple of weeks/months I have been going through the motions of life as it was all to overwhelming for me - why - I am not entirely sure, but think it is a mix of many different things:

Work

Money

Friendships

Winter

Tiredness

Many different things in my life got neglected including my weight loss journey and eveything I had established to go with it - excercise, healthy eating, sleep!

But - I am hoping to change all of that now or at least over the next week or so.

I have begun walking/training to work again which will help with weight loss and money parts of my life (petrol costs for the car was increasing the Credit Card debt! - petrol at the moment is approx 2.09cents per litre and with the tank being 50 litres for a full I am only getting approx 550 kms out of a tank - which is about a week and half work travelling!)

With the regular excercising, I am sleeping better which is making me feel more motivated to do things around the house as well as concentrate on my scrapbooking and other crafts that I do.

It is also helping me with making healthier food choices which in turn makes me a happier person.

I know it will be a slow process to get back to where I was before things slid down the slippery slope but I will get there.

Things I Love.......

2011-10-20T10:25:00.000+13:00

Getting back into walking and catching the train

Sun shiny days after the rain

Summer is coming

Completing scrapbook pages

Creating wedding gifts

Spending time with friends

Family days at Snow Planet

The All Blacks making it to the RWC Final

A loving forgiving husband

Wonderful happy children

Awesome Blogs to read

Inspiration from those blogs

Slowly sorting out my muddled brain

So True

2011-10-13T14:14:00.000+13:00

"Life does not need to be perfect to be wonderful."

--Annette Funicello

Inspiration

2011-10-06T16:10:00.000+13:00

Source:Boost Your self Esteem

Things I love............

2011-09-29T06:03:00.003+13:00

Daylight Savings starting in NZ

All Blacks doing well in the Rugby World Cup

Warriors making it to the Finals

Getting invited to my friends wedding

Feeling creative to make them there wedding gift

Great talks with my BFF

Weekend fun with the kids

Purchasing more Christmas Presents

Nephews loving there birthday presents

Hugs and kisses from Nephews

Inspiring blogs to read and learn from

Husband being recognised for his volunteer work

Things I love..............

2011-09-22T06:57:00.002+12:00

Things I am loving at the moment are....

The beginnings of Spring in the plants

Baby Lambs bouncing in the fields

Hearing all about my friends up coming wedding

Galas Radical Self Love Manifesto

Making list

Deciding to begin scrapbooking again - I have missed it!

Planning Christmas Lists

Creating the wedding gift for my two wonderful friends

Purchasing Christmas Presents in September

Reading Chick Lit!

Cute conversations with my 9 year old son

Life conversations with my 14 year old daughter

Love from my man!

What about you????

The Receiving Project.......

2011-09-17T02:32:00.004+12:00

Have you heard about The Receiving Project????

Are you a “giver”, giving of yourself and time, but have a hard time when other’s want to appreciate you? Is it a challenge to receive from The Universe?

Are you receiving the experiences that you want in your life? When you are ready to make a real change in your life, join The Receiving Project!

Go check out all about it thru the link above - you will not regret it!

It has opened me up to so many wonderful gifts from the universe.

I hope it does the same for you

Five on Friday...........

2011-09-16T02:37:00.001+12:00

I am so grateful for many things lately but here are my top 5

1. I am grateful for the start of spring and the new life that it brings in both baby animals and flowers

2. I am grateful for a wonderful and supportive family

3. I am grateful for the wonderful friends that I am surrounded with.

4. I am grateful for my decision to get back to loving me

5. I am especially grateful for all that the universe sends my way

Currently Loving............

2011-09-15T06:12:00.001+12:00

Inspired by The Dame's post here are some random things I am currently loving in no particular order..............

Ceroc dancing

The gang at my dance class - they are awesome!

Starting to feel inspired to get back on the weight loss wagon properly!

The awesome new clothes that I got from my wonderful friend.

My wonderful friend.

The confidence I feel wearing my new clothes

Inspiring ideas from the World Wide Web.

Spring starting in NZ

Longer day light hours

Summer BBQs are nearly here

Being able to ride my bike again in the evenings

Subway roast chicken on honey oat

Starting to play squash again at the end of October

My hubby

My Children

Buzz on the Web..........

2011-09-14T06:03:00.000+12:00

Heres a few great posts that I would like to share with you all.............

Here are some ways to love the people in your life

40 ways to indulge without going over board

A great post from Craig Harper on letting go

Some fun ways to stay happy

Ways to get a second chance in life

Making time for what really matters to you

When your Gremlins are in control!!!

How to deal with failure

Ten on Tuesday....

2011-09-13T06:54:00.002+12:00

I haven't done one of these for a while so thought why not...............

1. My 14 year old daughter is slowly driving us insane with the moods and swings
2. My 7 year old son has lots of soccer commitments at the moment
3. My 46 year old husband also has lots of commitments at the moment
4. My 42 year old friend is not going to be happy with me when I tell her we can't come to stay next weekend :(
5. My 42 year old body is getting weary with all the commitments
6. My 89 year old grandmother is still living in her own home!
7. My 69 year old uncle isn't doing to well.
8. My 4 year old job just isn't cutting it anymore but I can't be bothered looking for another.
9. My 3 digit number on the scales is peeing me off but it is all my own doing!
10. My 16 member Ceroc team did so well at champs - placing third!

Motivational Monday.........

2011-09-12T12:57:00.000+12:00

Isn't this just great!!!

Read the amazing post that goes with this picture over at Kristin Noelles Blog

LIFE........................

2011-09-11T21:07:00.000+12:00

Well I haven't disappeared completely!

But I have been having struggles lately and needed some time to reasses what I am doing with my life.

Making good choices at the moment is hard and it annoys me so much!

I need to reassess what I am trying to achieve and also make the journey doable!

Bear with me as I sort out my head!

Words.............

2011-09-04T07:53:00.002+12:00

Via We Heart it

Dancing Today......................

2011-09-03T07:01:00.000+12:00

Via Gemma at We heart It

Today is the day of the Ceroc Dance Champs!!!!

I am Nervous

I am Excited

I am Scared

Wish me luck

LIFE

2011-09-01T16:26:00.000+12:00

From the Lovely Goddess Leonie

89 Day Challenge - Day 37

2011-08-30T08:20:00.000+12:00

Well another no gyming it day as I realised last night that tonight will be another late night with dance practise so the extra sleep this morning is needed!

I am also not going to use the train at all this week as I am not wanting to increase the chance of injuring myself walking to work as I have done in the past and close to champs as well!

Overall I am ok - still quite tired but ok!

Its the first day of spring in two more big sleeps and that means warmer weather, longer daylight and more time to do the things I love!

Winter is long and tiring for me and my family with all our soccer commitments but we try and enjoy the spring/summer days as much as we can with relaxing and enjoying our home!

I think I just might complete a list of things to do this summer and see how many I can complete!

89 day Challenge - Days 33-36

2011-08-29T12:35:00.000+12:00

WOW - What a busy weekend I have had, I ended up having Friday off work as TTOTM was playing havoc with my back so I spent the day resting, oh and dropping hubbys car for its warrant of fitness which it failed!
It needs two new tyres (160.00 each) and something with the rear light and a crack in the windscreen fixed.

So after 572.00 later it is all good to go!

Saturday was quiet for most of it until the afternoon when we had a dress rehersal for Ceroc as the champs are next saturday (Freaking out!)
It went well and we all "sexed it up" for the audience!

Sunday was spent with my son at a soccer tournament where the boys did not play to there best abilities whilst on the pitch - Liam did ok but was in goal for 4 1/2 of the 5 games and of the 1/2 game he did play he scored two goals - so that was good!

Last night I went to bed at 8.30 as I was tired and had great plans to get up at 5.30am to go to the gym!

BUT - I spent the night tossing and turning, not sleeping and still with back pain so I allowed myself to sleep some more and will hopefully go tomorrow morning!

This whole 89 day challenge I set myself is not going the best at the moment but I will try and pull myself together to get it sorted!

How to give your home a welcome makeover.........

2011-08-28T01:00:00.002+12:00

Declutter & then discard the mess: “first, go through each room and identify what will help you live the life you want” suggests Louis D’Allura from Revamp Professional Orangisers. Remove any long-standing clutter, then donate or throw it away.

Not sure where to start? “start with fridge magnets, bookshelf clutter and flat surfaces: advises D’Allura

Move Furniture, feel brand new: D’Allura recommends creatind dedicated features in each room, such as a visual focal point or a space for easy conversations. “Can your current furniture be moved to make rooms more spacious or cosy?” D’Allura asks “I recently switched our living and dinning rooms around and that one small change has been amazing”

Quiz the Experts on renovation: Really serious about it? If you have the budget, passion and times, renovating is another possibility. There are many options available including Harvey Norman Design and Renovations service.

Source - Old Weight Watchers Magazine

Safe Tips Every Woman Should Know........

2011-08-27T00:58:00.001+12:00

OUT WITH FRIENDS: keep everyone’s numbers stored in your phone, never leave your drink unattended and organise how you’re getting home before you head out.

EXCERCISING AT NIGHT: Plan your route and tell someone where you’re going. Dress in bright colours, don’t wear jewellery or carry money and avoid unpopulated areas.

OVERSEAS ALONE: Get the business card of where you’re staying, note the names of taxi drivers and carry an over the shoulder bag with a zipper to protect your belongings.

STILL NERVOUS?: Take a self-defence class to help feel more assertive in any situation

Source: An old Weight Watchers Magazine

89 Day Challenge - Days 31 & 32

2011-08-25T08:03:00.000+12:00

Well between work and dance practise I am tired!

I have decied to take the week off the gym and just relax and get some sleep in, TTOTM doesn't help either and especially since its a doozy!

Will return to the gym next week!

89 Day Challenge - Day 30

2011-08-23T12:36:00.000+12:00

I will confess................

NO GYM TODAY!!!!!!!!!

Argh I so didn't feel like it today either and I know why - that darn womans thing!

The lead up to it this time is causing me back pain/cramps and I am not handling it very well!

I will take it easy at dance class tonight and will have another nice sleep in tomorrow - but I promise to you and me that I will get back there on Thursday and Friday for sure!

89 Day Challenge - Day 27-29

2011-08-22T10:02:00.000+12:00

What a busy weekend I had - with the last of the saturday soccer commitments now finished we will slowly get our weekends back.

I spend Saturday sorting thru some paperwork and loading a few more trade me auctions of craft supplies that I no longer require.

Sunday was spent relaxing and catching up on recorded programmes and phone calls with my BFF.

No gym this morning as I has a very sore tummy last night and was woken up what seemed like every hour.

Oh the joys of being a woman!

So True...................

2011-08-21T00:56:00.002+12:00

The way to happiness: keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Live simply, expect little, give much. Scatter sunshine. Forget self, think of others, try this for a week and you will be surprised.

By Norman Vincent Peale, Author.

Words of Wisdom

2011-08-20T00:52:00.001+12:00

I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life. I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life." I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back. I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. I've learned that I still have a lot to learn. I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

Maya Angelou via Kind over Matter

89 Day Challenge - Day 26

2011-08-19T07:46:00.000+12:00

That darn alarm of mine!

I think it is time to go and get a new one - it didn't go off this morning so on the good side - I go to have a nice sleep in!

At least tonight I have extra dance training which will help, and making excellent food choices - I should be all good to go!

This weekend is nice and quiet so I might try and fit in a walk somewhere, as well as trying to catch up with my Nana and see what shes been up to

Enjoy your day and have a fabulous weekend

89 Day Challenge - Day 25

2011-08-18T06:33:00.000+12:00

I am just back from the gyma nd a great work out - I really pushed myself this morning and I can feel it!

It is another cold morning in Auckland so I am rugging up warm.

Food choices today:
Egg and banana for Breakfast
Tuna salad for lunch
Fruit for snacks

I am still working thru my issues and trying to get them out and down on paper so I can see them and acknowledge them and then work on eleminating them from my life

Have a great day

89 Day Challenge Day 24

2011-08-17T09:06:00.000+12:00

Today is my rest day - which is great as Tuesday nights are my late night. Also with the freezing cold weather we are experiencing in Auckland at the moment, I am glad to be able to stay in the warmth a little bit longer.

Yesterday was another food shocker - why do I do it!

This is something I need to really look within to see why I can't find the success again of previous attempts.

I do want to loose weight

I do want to be under 100 kg (Lowest 102kg a year ago)

I love the control of eating well and getting the results on the scales

BUT

Why do I continue to eat junk food!

Why am I not giving it my all at the gym making sure that I am feeling like a work out has just happened

Why do I think I am not worth it!

Lately with our dance trainings, different people have been recording the routine and then we all get to view it to check out timings and make sure that we are all hitting the beats at the same time.

I hate looking at it because what I see in my mind of my body is nothing like what I view on the recording of me and it depresses me!

I guess I view myself on what I can see when I look down and that is a "frontal view", but that is definitely not what I see when I see a recorded version of myself and this then makes me think is that how people see me????

Am I really that big, that round?!

I have so much sorting out in my mind to do and somethimes that feels so overwhelming that I just give yup and have the chocolate!

But I will continue to look within to sort the outside and come to a happy resting place

89 Day Challenge - Days 20-23

2011-08-16T07:58:00.000+12:00

Whew - I have been so busy these last couple of days I forgot to post!

The weekend (Days 20/21) were busy with children and soccer commitments - so no gym but lots of walking,

Yesterday (day 22) saw me up nice and early - 5.30am - and off to the gym for a great work out!
Food choices yesterday - so so

Today (Day 23) was another early start but a gentle work out - so friggin cold!
Food Choices today - will be much better!

I can't keep busting my ass going to the gym in the mornings if I am going to waste the workout with bad food choices!

I know - I know - the penny drops!