Week 43

Weight: 243.8
Weight loss in one week: 1.6
Total weight lost: 124.6
Average weekly weight loss: 2.90
Weight left to lose: 3.8
Weeks left at average loss: 1.31
Estimated total weeks: 44.31 (about 10.23 months)

I had a loss this week.  But I'm not happy about it.  Last week I would have been happy with a 1.6 pound loss.  But I had a gain.  This week?  I wanted a bigger loss.  I worked hard for it, but, alas, I didn't control intake as well as I should have.  That's where the Calorie counting comes in.  And, yup, that means that I'm re-instituting the twEATS.  It really seemed to help me break the unintentional eating that I do too much. 

The biggest bummer is that when I weighed myself last night after my walk, but before drinking all the water that I do and eating dinner, I weighed in at 241.8.  So I retained 2 additional pounds over the evening and night.  Bummer.  That's the reason for the disappoinntment.

But it won't happen again!

Perfect 10: week 4

- Walk 12 miles a week (done)
- Do front (2x60) and side (1x30/side) planks 3 days a week. (done)
- Keep on our budget. (not great as we wrap up the month; but it's the first month, so it'll get better as we go on.)
- Hit and exceed my initial weight loss goal--and start a new one. (I'll be closer this week, I think.)
- Read 4 books (done with one and 1/2 way through another)
- Only use my horn for avoiding traffic collisions. (I used it three times, but only once was it to not avoid an accident.  Crazy days...)
- Cook dinner at home 4 times a week (done)
- Go on 3 hikes (none yet, but there's still time)

My interesting tidbit: I have 4 brothers.  Nah, that's not the whole bit, that's only the start.  We grew up in cramped quarters: we had a single-wide trailer with an added dining room, living room, and bedroom.  It was about 1,000 square feet.  For 6 people (my oldest brother was already at college).  My two oldest brothers shared the "master bedroom" that also had a working toilet in it--in the corner of the room (very prisonesque).  My twin brother shared the other, smaller bedroom...with a washing machine and dryer...and one of the back doors--I'm not sure if it was a bedroom, or should have been a mud room.  And my parents slept in a hide-a-bed in the living room.  Ahh....those were the days!

Friday:
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.15 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (332 Calories)
Walk 4.75 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Fast Day

Total:
4- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
4- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.40 miles; 2.12 miles, 2.05 miles, 215 miles)
4- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (331 Calories; 345 Calories, 347 Calories, 332 Calories)
3 sets of 2- 60 second planks
5 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
210 sit ups
Walk 12.75 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
2 Fast Days

Today on Jeopardy!

No, I'm not on Jeopardy!...yet!  I did just take the online contestant test.  And I'm pretty sure I completely failed.  But it's fun.  I actually really like taking tests.  I did try our for Jeopardy! once before (for the College Tournament), and even made it as far as the in-person test and the mack game.  But no further.  And that's cool with me--just participating in it is enjoyment for me.  In fact, I like taking tests so much, one time I offered to take my friend's LSATs (nevermind the conflict with the whole ethical dilemma that would arise from such a situation)--as a joke.  And for three years, I took the Foreign Service Written Exam to join the State Department.  My last time, I was invited to take the Oral Assessment (the next stage).  So yeah, let's just say I like to take tests.  And I enjoyed the Jeopardy! test.

After taking the test, I went for a walk run jog.  I did the equivalent of a 5k, and I ended up finding the perfect 3.1 mile course!  I averaged 5.8 mph and finished in 32:18.  Not bad, not great, but way better than my first 5k (I think it was like 50 minutes or so...).  And I might change things to incorporate more running/jogging into my routine--outside of the gym.

Thursday:
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.05 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (347 Calories)
30 sit ups
Walk 3 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily

Total:
3- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
3- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.40 miles; 2.12 miles, 2.05 miles)
3- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (331 Calories; 345 Calories, 347 Calories)
3 sets of 2- 60 second planks
5 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
210 sit ups
Walk 8 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Another Quickie

Wednesday:
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.12 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (345 Calories)
30 sit ups
Walk 1 mile
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna

Total:
2- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
2- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.40 miles; 2.12 miles)
2- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (331 Calories; 345 Calories)
3 sets of 2- 60 second planks
5 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
180 sit ups
Walk 5 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Detente

I did have fun at my company's party, but I'm also very glad that I'm able to be back in the gym on a consistent basis.  Now, really, I'm not like an addict or anything.  I promise.  Seriously.  I have a relationship with the gym that can best be defined as detente.  I don't love it, and I don't hate it, but I'm willing to work with it. And I'm willing to spend time with the gym--but it will never convince me that it's totally good.  You know what I mean?  But it is nice to be back on the treadmill...on the elliptical...on the stairmaster (?).  It really has become a habit for me.  And though I don't love the place, I do realize that I need it--it really does great things for me!  What's your relationship with exercise/the gym?  Do you love it?  Do you like it?  Do you "humor" it?  Or do you really hate it?

Tuesday:
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.40 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (331 Calories)
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
1 set of 30 second side planks (on each side)
30 sit ups
Walk 2.5 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily

Total:
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.40 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (331 Calories)
3 sets of 2- 60 second planks
5 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
150 sit ups
Walk 4 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Fast

As you know, I'm taking a break on the whole TwEATs thing for a couple of weeks--it's a little too much of an interruption right now. If I suck it up on my weigh-ins, I'll start it back up.

It turns out... [revised]

I'm that guy.  We just had our company holiday party, and I saw a lot of my friends' spouses.  I see my friends at work all the time, but I only see their spouses twice a year.  And the last time was back in July.  I've changed a lot since then.  I can't tell you how many people saw me and were just blown away.  That left me really inspired and enthused to kick some butt these next few weeks.  I even gave my blog out to some more people.  I don't expect to see them comment on here, but one friend actually said that I inspire him.  I'm that guy who inspires people.  How completely cool is that?!  I was just in awe. 

And then the wife of one of my best friends at work and I talked toward the end of the night.  She and Anna and I stood there chatting for the better part of 15 minutes.  During the conversation, she asked me what keeps me motivated.  And I came up three sources of my motivation (at the time):

1. Myself.  I've been doing this now for almost 10 months.  That's a long time, and I've come a long way.  And I know that I NEVER want to go back to the way I was.  I just wasn't happy.  I didn't like having to shop at the Big & Tall store.  I didn't like getting winded walking up the dang staircase.  So, yeah, I know I just won't let myself fall back.
2. Anna.  I am lucky to have the best wife in the world.  Sorry, folks, you may think you have the best wife, husband, partner; but I've got to let you know that I do.  She is amazing.  And I know she'll love me through anything.  But I also know that she loves me so much that she won't let me get away with being lazy; she won't let me regain all that I've worked so hard to lose.  Not that she'll force me to eat well, but she will help me to think about whether it really is worth it to eat poorly and be lazy and fall back into my old habits.  Just knowing that I want her to have a hot husband helps motivate me.
3. You all.  You guys really are a huge source of motivation for me.  Just knowing that you stop by (even if you're not all commenting--or even if you are!) helps me to keep on track.  I can't let myself falter, because I know you all will keep me accountable.  It's amazing that you all are doing such a great job--no matter where you are on your journey.  And honestly, that is what keeps me going: you all inspire me every time I read one of your posts.  Seriously.  
4. God.  Not sure why this didn't come to mind at the time (probably because I'm not always comfortable talking about my spiritual life all the time--but it is getting easier).  But God really is the most influential source of motivation for me on this journey.  You can see the detailed reason why at my first post, but really it comes down to the fact taht God created me.  And If I abuse that creation, I'm not comfortable with myself.  I'm pretty sure He knows better than I do how I should look/act/be.   

Up to Monday:
2 sets of 2- 60 second planks
4 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
120 sit ups
Walk 1.5 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Fast

Just so you know, I'm taking a break on the whole TwEATs thing for a couple of weeks--it's a little too much of an interruption right now.  If I suck it up on my weigh-ins, I'll start it back up.

Week 42

Weight: 245.4


Weight loss gain in one week: 1.0
Total weight lost: 123
Average weekly weight loss: 2.93


Weight left to lose: 5.4
Weeks left at average loss: 1.84
Estimated total weeks: 43.84 (about 10.12 months)

I found a good way to take pictures of the new scale.  That's the good news.  The bad news is that I gained this week.  I knew it was coming, and it wassn't as bad as I had imagined, so that's okay.  I only hit the gym once and I didn't curb my eating enough to compensate.  Not a big deal.  The only bummer is that I don't think I'll be able to hit a 5.4 pound loss, and thus won't be at my goal in January.  That was never a stated goal (but it would have been cool), so I'm not too upset.  It looks like about 2 more weeks until I hit my goal.  And I'm so stoked to be so close!!!

Feb 6th should be the week I hit my goal.  Before my 3rd wedding anniversary.  And that was one of my goals from Week 1!

Perfect 10: Week 3

- Walk 12 miles a week (done)
- Do front (2x60) and side (1x30/side) planks 3 days a week. (done)
- Keep on our budget. (done)
- Hit and exceed my initial weight loss goal (and start a new one) (Trying to get closer, but may not hit this week.)
- Read 4 books (done with one and working on another)
- Only use my horn for avoiding traffic collisions. (success!)
- Cook dinner at home 4 times a week (miss--lots of other food)
- Go on 3 hikes (none yet, but there's still time)

Hmm...one thing people may not know about me.  Though I've had many bumps, bruises, had my arm sliced open by some falling glass, a broken golf club stuck into my knee, sent a drill through my finger, and had my head chomped on 4 different times by our dog while growing up; I've never been to the ER or broken a bone in my body!

Friday:
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
90 sit ups
Walk 7 Miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily

Total:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.17 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (317 Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
4 sets of 2- 60 second planks
8 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
300 sit ups
Walk 12 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,950 Calories
Sunday: 2,100 Calories
Monday: 2,075 Calories
Tuesday: 875 Calories
Wednesday: 2,170 Calories
Thursday: 2,155 Calories
Friday: 1,740 Calories
Total: 14,065 Calories (Average: 2,009.29 Calories/day)

Another week done, and this time, I'm not happy with the progress I've made. Or the progress I haven't made, rather.  I ate too much.  And since it was so much pre-made food, I'm sure I'll be retaining water during my weigh-in tomorrow.  Bummer.  But I'm sure I'll more than make up for it next week (with at least 4 days of "normal" workouts)

Remember, you can follow my twEATs here.

Just the facts, man

Thursday:
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
30 sit ups
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily

Total:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.17 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (317 Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
3 sets of 2- 60 second planks
6 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
210 sit ups
Walk 5 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,950 Calories
Sunday: 2,100 Calories
Monday: 2,075 Calories
Tuesday: 875 Calories
Wednesday: 2,170 Calories
Thursday: 2,155 Calories

Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

Quick update

So, today didn't go quite as planned.  I ate a little too much (though not as much as I would have in the past, and still weight loss amounts).  And I didn't wake up early enough to go on a walk (though I did get a couple small ones in--and was on my feet walking all day today).  But that's okay!  I still have tomorrow and I still did okay tonight. 

Busy nights this whole week, so I'm off to be soon.  I tried to get caught up on my blog list tonight, and if you need something to do, look to the right of this page and click on one of the blogs I frequent--great inspiration on each page.  There's a whole community of us our there honestly blogging about the successes and struggles we face on this journey.  I'm so proud to be part of this amazing group of people!

Wednesday
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
90 sit ups
Walk 23 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily

Total
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.17 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (317 Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
2 sets of 2- 60 second planks
4 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
180 sit ups
Walk 5 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,950 Calories
Sunday: 2,100 Calories
Monday: 2,075 Calories
Tuesday: 875 Calories
Wednesday: 2,170 Calories


Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

My long weekend

Hi gang! I just wanted to let you all know that I'm still here and alive and having fun! I had yesterday off, and as per my usual habit, I didn't post (well, other than my typical Saturday morning weigh-in). Sorry to worry you all! I did eat a little too much this weekend, but it was for a good cause? We celebrated my brother's fiancee's birthday and the birthday of one of my best friends. Their birthdays were in August and July respectively, so, naturally, we decided to have a crawfish boil in January! Look good?

We had some good eats!  We had crawfish (my first time trying them--tasty, but not worth the time for me), tiger shrimp, dungeness crabs, and potatoes and corn.  So good.  Probably had way too much food (which I've estimated below).  We got some good crawfish, too!  We ordered them straight from Louisiana!  I called them on Thursday, and asked about live crawfish, but was informed that they didn't have any.  Bummed out, I ordered the 10 pounds of boiled and frozen, after being told that they would actually be better since they're harvested at the peak of their season.  I got the shipment the next day (they actually build overnight shipping into the cost!), and put it in the fridge the next day.  Not opening the cooler it was shipped in, Anna and I finished our shopping on saturday and returned with an hour and a half before our guests would arrive hungry and ready to eat.  We finally opened the cooler to a moving bag!  It turns out that they shipped us live crawfish after all.  (And yes, I did scream and whimper like a little girl the entire time  of preparing the live mudbugs!)  Here's the full spread:

Also, we saw the Book of Eli, this weekend.  And I loved it.  It's probably one of the best movies I've seen in years.  My pastor even saw it and enjoyed it.  But I'd recommend seeing it before reading his post, since he goes into depth about the movie and plot in his post.  I would highly recommend it. 

Up to Tuesday:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.17 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (317 Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1 set of 2- 60 second planks

2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
90 sit ups
Walk 2 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast


Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,950 Calories
Sunday: 2,100 Calories
Monday: 2,075 Calories
Tuesday: 875 Calories
Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

Week 41

Weight: 244.4

Weight loss in one week: 4.4
Total weight lost: 124
Average weekly weight loss: 3.02

Weight left to lose: 4.4
Weeks left at average loss: 1.46
Estimated total weeks: 42.46 (about 9.80 months)

I've got to figure out how to take a picture of this new scale.  I think this one came out cleaar enough, but dang.  That's frustrating. 

What's not frustrating?  Losing another 4.4 pounds!  Holy Mosses, now I have less than 5 pounds to lose to reach my goal.  I came into the week wanting to lose at least half of my weight this week.  I knew it was totally irrational to expect a loss almost 1.5 times my average.  And I didn't really do anything out of the ordinary.  But I'll certainly take this loss. 

I'm so close to my goal, it's tempting to try to hit that same loss this week.  But, alas, I don't think I'll try too hard for that.  (Did I just say alas??)  I have all-day off-site meetings Wednesday through Friday, and I'm taking Monday off with Anna.  So that leaves one workout day this coming week.  Which leaves me with a lot of Calories that I won't be burning.  And I don't think it would be a good idea to try to cut my Calories so drastically that I lose that much.  So, instead, my unofficial goal is to lose 1-2 pounds.  I'd be okay with that.

Perfect 10: Week 2

Here are my goals for the Perfect 10:

- Walk 12 miles a week (done)
- Do front (2x60) and side (1x30/side) planks 3 days a week. (done)
- Keep on our budget. (done)
- Hit and exceed my initial weight loss goal (and start a new one) (on pace...)
- Read 4 books (almost done with one)
- Only use my horn for avoiding traffic collisions. (success!)
- Cook dinner at home 4 times a week (done)
- Go on 3 hikes (none yet, but there's still time)

My interesting tidbit:
I'm very impulsive.  It used to be really bad.  Years ago, I made a coffee table with a "zen" rock garden in it.  I bought some white sand to put in it and wanted to get some really dark, almost black, rocks to complete the set-up.  My mom said that there were some nice rocks, just like the ones I was looking for, out on Mora Beach.  It's out on the Olympic Penninsula, about 4 hours away.  I really wanted those rocks.  And needed them ASAP, so I called my brother and a good friend and asked if they wanted to go camping.  They said yes, but I didn't have any camping gear.  2 tents, a stove, a cooler, 2 lanterns and $300 later, we were on the road.  We drove to the campground that night, camped out, got the rocks, and came home the next day.  I essentially bought $300 dark grey/black rocks to go into my coffee table.  Yeah. That's impulsive!  But Anna's really tamed me--she's actually helped me learn how to think before acting (most of the time...).  And I love her for that.


Another day, another step toward hitting my goal on my treadmill.  I made 2.41 miles.  Wow.  Intense, and challenging.  Maybe I can get it done by the end of January.  Good goal.  Good progress.  Oh, and I walked 7.75 miles (plus 0.25 miles earlier) on the way home from dinner tonight in 1:52!


Friday:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.41 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (315 Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
30 sit ups
Walk 8 miles
Read the Bible
Prayed

Total:
4- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.23 miles, 2.28 miles, 2.35 miles, 2.41 miles)
4- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (312 Calories, 318 Calories, 315 Calories, 315 Calories)
4- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
3 sets of 2- 60 second planks
6 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
250 sit ups
Walk 15 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,110 Calories
Sunday: 2,100 Calories
Monday: 1,270 Calories
Tuesday: 1,680 Calories
Wednesday: 1,835 Calories
Thursday: 2,001 Calories
Friday: 1,940 Calories
Total for the week: 12,936 Calories.  Average: 1,848 Calories

Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

Red Robin...Yum!

Not sure if you will see it below, so I thought I'd highlight the fact that I hit 2.35 miles in my 20 minutes on the treadmill!  Woot!  One my my own personal goals is to hit 2.5 miles in my 20 minutes.  I'd like to get there by February 15th.  I'm pretty sure I'll be able to get there.  I'm so close!  But it is really tough, and I still have 0.15 miles to add. 

And on lunch, which is what the title of my post is.  Man, I love eating there.  I know I've told you all about my goals and strategies and poor choices in the past with regards to this place, but I wanted to share the new meal I have there.  The 496 Calorie meal!

It's so tasty.  And I'll have it each time I go there.  Yummy!  But then, I get back to the office to find this email:

How's that for a sabotage?  But I won't give in.  I looked at redrobin.com, and the lowest Calorie appetizer is the Guacamole, Salsa & Chips at 812 Calories.  Not too bad (if you share it with 3 other people!), but the worst is the Nacho Ordinary Chili Nachos with Chicken at 2,084 Calories.  Yikes!  No thank you, Red Robin, I think I'll just delete the email now if you don't mind.  

Thursday:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.35 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (315 Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
60 sit ups
Read the Bible
Prayed

Total:
2- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.23 miles, 2.28 miles, 2.35 miles)
2- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (312 Calories, 318 Calories, 315 Calories)
2- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
2 sets of 2- 60 second planks
4 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
220 sit ups
Walk 7 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,110 Calories
Sunday: 2,100 Calories
Monday: 1,270 Calories
Tuesday: 1,680 Calories
Wednesday: 1,835 Calories
Thursday: 2,001 Calories

Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

PROGRESS IN A 1,000 WORDS

First, a very inportant message.  I'm sure you've heard about the tragedy in Haiti.  It is heart breaking.  And we can do somehting about it.  But make sure that it's through a reputable organization.  And you can find a good list here.  You can also text "Haiti" to 90999 to donate $10 to the International Response Fund. The money will go directly to The American Red Cross' relief efforts in Haiti, like I just did.

On to the title of the post, I took another progress picture.  Oh wow, I can really see more progress.  Can you believe that the starting picture was taken less than a year ago?  It just goes to show how much we can do in as little as a year.  We all can do it.  Or something like it.

And also, I was able to do my longest distance in 20 minutes on the treadmill: 2.28 miles!  Think I'll ever be able to get to 2.5 miles in 20 minutes?  That would be awesome!  Not bad for a 248.8 pound guy, huh?

Wednesday:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.28 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (318 Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
60 sit ups

Read the Bible

Prayed

Total:
2- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.23 miles, 2.28 miles)
2- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (312 Calories, 318 Calories)
2- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
160 sit ups
Walk 7 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,110 Calories
Sunday: 2,100 Calories
Monday: 1,270 Calories
Tuesday: 1,680 Calories

Wednesday: 1,835 Calories

Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

10 Things that Make me Happy

Kimberley tagged me for Happy 101. I need to list ten things that make me happy and pass it on to ten other bloggers. I don't usually do this, but I love the idea!  So, here they are.  In a particular order: they way they came to mind.

Spending time with my wife

Cooking a big meal for friends

Working with my hands

Reading & books

Seeing people succeed

A nice warm salad

Laughing (and making people laugh)

Good worship songs

A nice long walk

Pizza

I will pass this on to the following people who have made an impact on me! (Sorry if any of you already received it, but I had to do this one!)

Steve
Ricky
Rick
Josie
Ehren
Dani
Ish
Natalie
Seth
Shelli

Also, I want you all to try to visit this post by Ishmael.  I love what she says about her healthy lifestyle:

My goal is to find a way to celebrate my healthy lifestyle every day --- even the days that don't go well (especially the days that don't go well).

What do I mean by that, exactly? Well, it's very cheesy and self-helpy, but here it is:

There are things I do now around food that I would never have done before. And these are not diet tools. These are life tools. These are changes that I want to be permanent.

But seriously, go out to her blog and read some more!

Tuesday:

1 set of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
100 sit ups

Total:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.23 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (312Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
100 sit ups
Walk 7 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,110 Calories
Sunday: 2,100 Calories
Monday: 1,270 Calories
Tuesday: 1,680 Calories

Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

FAST DAY, DATE NIGHT

I fasted today, which went pretty well (and I"m so glad that I've been able to adopt this spiritual discipline).  I may have to try fasting for a full day some time soon--just to see how I do.  And then, on the way home, Anna asked if we could have our date night tonight.  It sounded fun!  We went to sushi, had a lot of fun and a long conversation, then headed over to the mall to buy a pair of slacks andd a nice shirt for me to wear at my company Holiday party next Saturday (I'll definitely have to post a picture of it--and compare it to our picture from last year).  I feel so much more comfortable buying clothes, and clothes that I used to be afraid to try on are actually fitting (or are close to fitting)!  So fun!

Also, I didn't end up posting my measurements yet.  I'll do that soon--maybe once I hit my goal weight (or maybe next weeeked!).  But I will have a new comparison picture to put up soon.  It's been about 3 months since my last one, and I'm interested to see where I am.  So soon.  I primise.

Total:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.23 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (312Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
Walk 7 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,110 Calories
Sunday: 2,100 Calories
Monday: 1,270 Calories

Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

Week 40

Weight: 248.8

Weight loss in one week: 4.8
Total weight lost: 119.6
Average weekly weight loss: 2.99

Weight left to lose: 8.8
Weeks left at average loss: 2.94
Estimated total weeks: 42.94 (about 9.91 months)

How's that for a freakin' weight loss?  Dang!  I'm super excited about this.  I have less than 10 pounds to lose to get to my original goal.  4.8 pounds is crazy, but what's really crazy is that I've now lost almost 120 pounds in 40 weeks!  Yahoo! 

As you can see, I am using a new scale.  But don't worry, I checked the two scales against each other, and they matched; so I think it's safe to say that the loss is accurate.  The other thing this scale does is measure my body fat %, my BMI, and my Estimated Calorie burn.  Now, I know all of these numbers probably aren't accurate, but the important part is that they're consistent.  And they all factor into my new loss-tracking plan.  I'll start tracking my weight, BF%, and measurements.  Since I'll be at my goal soon, I'm planning on focusing on losing weight more slowly (maybe to hit 225 pounds eventually?).  In order to keep myself motivated (since I won't be losing the weight at a 3lb rate forever), I'll be trying to see the progress in a different form.  And I think that will keep me motivated.  So the new numbers will be essential.  

Anna and I are off to breakfast and a movie this morning (I love going to movies early in the day--way fewer people), so I'll post my measurements later on today.  I'll just be updating this post, so you'll know where to come for more info.

Have a blessed weekend!

Perfect 10: Week 1

Here are my goals for the Perfect 10:

- Walk 12 miles a week (done)
- Do front (2x60) and side (1x30/side) planks 3 days a week. (done)
- Keep on our budget. (done)
- Hit and exceed my initial weight loss goal (and start a new one) (on pace...)
- Read 4 books  (almost done with one)
- Only use my horn for avoiding traffic collisions.   (success!)
- Cook dinner at home 4 times a week  (done)
- Go on 3 hikes (none yet, but there's still time)

So far, things are on track.  I should know a little more tomorrow morning when I weigh in.  It will be a bunch of fun, too, since I'll start tracking my Body Fat %, BMI, and measurements.  Should be interesting.

My interesting tidbit: I met my wife on Native American burial grounds.  That's right--an Indian Cemetary.  It was out on the Olympic Penninsula in a tribal fishing town called La Push (yeah, yeah, I know about the Twilight series.  Ugh.  Orobably why I haven't read it and Anna and I haven't been back since meeting).  I was living out there, working wih the tribal youth and her church came out to do a short term missions trip.  We were interested in each other, started dating a month after, and got married 2-1/5 years later.  But, I can't remember the first time we met on August 10th, 2004.  She says she remembers meeting me in the cemetary, but I remember meeting her at the dinner their group hosted that night.  You can't blame me, though.  I was the only guy she met, but their group had like 25 people in it...and I was working (and focused).  But yeah, she still gives me a hard time about that!

Also, I guess my money's safe again.  I went on the walk and brought my keys this morning.  I'm liking this waking up early thing.  Not sure if I'll do it during the weekend, though.  I guess we'll see.

Friday:
1- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.18 miles)
1- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (318 Calories)
1- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
1 set of 30 second side planks (on each side)
60 sit ups
Walk 3 Miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna


Total:
3- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.00 miles; 2.16 miles; 2.18 miles)
3- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (324 Calories; 318 Calories; 318 Calories)
3- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
4 sets of 2- 60 second planks
4 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
270 sit ups
Walk 13 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast


Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,020 Calories
Sunday: 1,890 Calories
Monday: 775 Calories
Tuesday: 1,795 Calories
Wednesday: 1,640 Calories
Thursday: 1,765 Calories
Friday:  1,825 Calories
Total: 11,710 Calories (average of 1,672.85/day.  Is this too low?)

Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

my money's safe...

...for now!


I did my walk in the morning--thanks for all the encouragement on my last post--and it was early.  I woke up at 4:30, stumbled out the door and did 3 miles in about 45 minutes.  Not too bad.  And then I got home, opened the garage door (that woke Anna up for the day, which was perfect), and then realized that I was locked out of the house!  Bummer!  I don't like to have too much suff on me, so I didn't carry my keys...and I locked the door from the garage into the house.  Rats!  And Anna was getting ready in the bathroom and couldn't hear me calling her cell or ringing the doorbell.  And I got really cold.  20 minutes later, she came to let me in.  Note to self: always take my keys with me. 

Now, I think I'll continue the habit (and the wager) for tomorrow.  But maybe not as much $$.  This time, it'll be $10 a comment.  And the donation will go to the first suggestion.  This is kinda fun!

Thursday:
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
1 set of 30 second side planks (on each side)
60 sit ups
Walk 4 Miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna

Total:
2- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.00 miles; 2.16 miles)
2- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (324 Calories; 318 Calories)
2- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
3 sets of 2- 60 second planks
3 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
210 sit ups
Walk 10 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Date with Anna
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,020 Calories
Sunday: 1,890 Calories
Monday: 775 Calories
Tuesday: 1,795 Calories
Wednesday: 1,640 Calories
Thursday: 1,765 Calories

Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

Walking Challenge

In the interest of full disclosure, I didn't complete my walk this morning.  I did go on a walk today, but not until the afternoon.  Sorry to disappoint you, Kimberley.  I know that habits are hard to break, they also take some time to establish.  And sometimes it takes more than will power to make a change.  So, here's the deal.  I promise to walk tomorrow morning.  If, for some reason, I don't, though, I'll donate $20 to charity for each comment made on this post (only one comment per person will count).  If I get 5 comments and I don't walk, I'll donate $100.  If I get 15 comments and I don't walk, I'll donate $100 dollars.  If I get 25 comments and I do walk, I won't have to donate any money.  I'm sure it all makes sense to you all.


Also, as you can see, I didn't do that much in the exercise department today.  That's mostly because I had to leave work at 12:30 to go to a mitigation hearing for a little speeding ticket (Now does that whole 2010 goal make more sense?).  I love the state of Washington, too.  I don't think that anyother states out there have a Deffered Judgement program, but it's super cool, and I'm very happy for it! 

"Upon deferring findings, the court may assess costs as the court deems appropriate for administrative processing. If at the end of the deferral period the defendant has met all conditions and has not been determined to have committed another traffic infraction, the court may dismiss the infraction" RCW 46.63.070.5a

Essentially, I got a speeding ticket, but after paying a court fee and having no more infractions for a year, the speeding ticket comes off my record and never gets reported to my insurance comapny. How cool is that??  So, yeah, I didn't get too much exercise in, but I also limited my intake today, too, so it should be fine.


Wednesday:
60 sit ups
Walk 3 Miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily


Total:
2- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.00 miles; 2.16 miles)
2- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (324 Calories; 318 Calories)
2- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
2 sets of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
150 sit ups
Walk 6 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Fast


Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,020 Calories
Sunday: 1,890 Calories
Monday: 775 Calories
Tuesday: 1,795 Calories
Wednesday: 1,640 Calories


Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

Push on

For some reason, my calves are killing me.  They have been all day, and I was hoping that exercising would have stretched them out.  But it didn't.  It's just sore, though, nothing big.  It didn't seem to hinder my results, though.  I actually competed my best distance on the treadmill in 20 minutes: 2.16 miles!!  Yay!  I think it would be cool if I could get to 2.25 miles.  That would be fun.

And now I'm heading off to bed with hopes of getting up early in order to get a walk in before Anna and I head off to work (we carpool).  We'll see if it happens, but I know I've talked about it many times before without doing it--I'd still like to make that transition.

Tuesday:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.16 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (318 Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
1 set of 30 second side planks (on each side)
30 sit ups
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily

Total:
2- 20 minute sessions on the Treadmill (2.00 miles; 2.16 miles)
2- 10 minute sessions on the Stairmaster (324 Calories; 318 Calories)
2- 15 minute sessions on the Elliptical
2 sets of 2- 60 second planks
2 sets of 30 second side planks (on each side)
90 sit ups
Walk 3 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,020 Calories
Sunday: 1,890 Calories
Monday: 775 Calories
Tuesday: 1,795 Calories

Remember, you can follow my twEATS here.

Counting Calories Works

I've now only been counting my Calories for a week and a half now, but it's looking like a great plan.  You see, I've been consistant losing weight throughout this journey so far, but it's been a struggle and kind of a test of my faith every week.  I weigh in on Saturday morning (usually my lowest weight), but by the time Monday comes along, I've "gained" 3-5 pounds over the couple of days!  Yikes!  Now, I know some of this comes from water (yeah, sure), but I'm sure that most of it comes from not really controlling my eating and not exercising as much as I should during the weekend.  But now, with counting Calories, I found that when I weighted myself that I'm on track for a pretty great loss (I know it's in 4 days, but still)!  I'm excited, and looking forward to controlling my intake (Monday through Sunday) as much as I do with my exercise!  On top of that, I've really been able to think about what I'm eating.  Yes, I could eat 3 small sliders on whole wheat buns, or I can have a HUGE salad for the same Calories--and I can decided which one I really want (and they can be different on diffrent days).  Yes, I do still chose some "bad" things for me, but not nearly as often as I had before, and it's always with intention now, too.  What a fun development.  I'm sad that I waited so long to do this.  Of course, it wouldn't work for everybody, but I'm glad I'm doing it.  And would recommend it for anyone who's even thinking about it.

Two more quick items:  I just got done watching the latest episode of Good Eats, and it was all about how Alton Brown lost 50 pounds over 9 months!  It was super interesting, and I'd recommend that people check it out.  I love that show, and it's so great how much he's done with his fitness.  Also, go one over and congratulate Rick over at DadShrinks on his awesome loss this last week.  He's been putting in the work for weeks and not seeing any results--until this week!  Sweet work, Rick! 

Up Through Monday:
1- 20 minute session on the Treadmill (2.00 miles)
1- 10 minute session on the Stairmaster (324 Calories)
1- 15 minute session on the Elliptical
1 set of 2- 60 second planks
1 set of 30 second side planks (on each side)
60 sit ups
Walk 3 miles
Read the Bible Daily
Pray Daily
Fast

Weekly Calorie Count:
Saturday: 2,020 Calories
Sunday: 1,890 Calories
Monday: 775 Calories

Remember, you can follow my meals here.

Perfect 10: Week 0

Here are my goals for the Perfect 10:

1. Walk 12 miles a week.
2. Do front (2x60) and side (1x30/side) planks 3 days a week.
3. Keep on our budget.
4. Hit and exceed my initial weight loss goal (and start a new one)
5. Read 4 books
6. Only use my horn for avoiding traffic collisions.
7. Cook dinner at home 4 times a week
8. Go on 3 hikes

I think those will work!  And, for this Challenge, I'll be posting updates on Saturdays--I hope that's okay, Steve!

Week 39

Weight: 253.6

Weight loss in one week: 2.6
Total weight lost: 114.8
Average weekly weight loss: 2.94

Weight left to lose: 13.6
Weeks left at average loss: 4.63
Estimated total weeks: 43.63 (about 10.07 months)

This is at least a loss, but I've got to say, I'm not too happy.  It's a good pace, and considering that I didn't have access to my gym on Thursday or Friday, It's a pretty good loss.  The reason I'm not happy, though, is that it just highlights the fact that I should not have had a gain last week.  And if I would have been able to keep up my pace the last two weeks, I'd be sitting at less than 10 pounds left to lose.  Ugh.  But I'm confident that next week I'll be better (hoping to be in the 240's!).

2010 Goals

Okay, I'm finally able to give my resolutions goals.  I came up with 5.  I'll list them below in song:

1) I want to walk 500 Miles.  This came as a result of Josie's blog.  She wants to walk 500 miles (about 10 miles a week, each week, all year).  And I think that's a great idea!  I want to do it, and I really want to blow it out of the water!  (But one step at a time, right?)

2) I want to regularly give to our church.  Tithes and offerings are an important part of my spiritual journey.  Giving back to the One who gave me my life, my possessions, and my salvation is essential.  And we were really good about giving at our previous church, but haven't been able to get into the swing of things--but with our new and improved 2010 budget, it's a priority.



3) I want to be free.  Debt free.  Now, this isn't a big deal, really.  I have about $3,500 left on my student loans, and that's about it.  It's not like we have a lot of debt compared to some people, and Anna's really the one who got rid of the rest of the financial baggage I brought in to our marriage, but it sure would be nice to be rid of that last little bit.



4)  I want to have more patience with my driving.  I have never run anyone off the road or anything like that, but I am a little too quick with the horn (hence the song?); and I get way too worked up because of traffic.  I really don't like traffic, but I usually do leave with plenty of time to get to where I'm going, even with a bunch of traffic.  So yeah, just more patience on the road would be awesome.



5) I want to entertain more.  God has blessed Anna and I with a modestly nice home, and it's been on my heart to have people over to enjoy the place--it can be anything, such as a BBQ, a game night, a movie night, or hosting a small group meeting.  



6)  I want to read.  At least 15 books.  I have a small library of books that I haven't read yet, and if I ever want to buy my e-reader, I need to get through those books!  I'd really like to read 25 books, but my goal is only for 15.

(Caution, more may come in the next couple of days...)