December Goals Recap!

1. Get under 100kgs!


Well this one didn't happen - but not worries I am working on it so that is the main thing right!
2. Continue to consume at least 2 litres of water over the weekends

All weekends I managed to consume well over 2 litres of water - woo hoo

3. Swim 4 times this month (Part of the 43 List)

All weeks completed and starting in January I will be attending Aqua Aerobics.

4. Complete at least 2 crafts this month (Part of the 43 List)

Completed album for boss's leaving gift
Made up Nanas Voucher Board


5. Make at least 2 cards this month (Part of the 43 List)

Made birthday card for friends daughter
Made more christmas cards

6. Have fish at least once this month (Part of the 43 List)

Achieved and it was YUM!
7. Complete at least one other item from the List

Purchased sneakers, diary and got a bike

8. Begin one of the longer task from the list

I have tidied up my craft supplies so I am ready to begin on my scrapbook albums



So overall 7 out of 8 completed -not bad.

Now to work on number one!

Christmas Recap!

Christmas Day in our house was great - we had brunch with my family and then a very relaxing afternoon.
The kids got spoilt rotten by family and Santa!

They also got a wonderful surprise from their Great Grandmother - Each great grandchild received $3000.00 towards there education!

OMG we were all surprised (my couisns and aunt!) no one knew a thing about it !

We are going to get Courtney a laptop for high school and then she can save the rest of it! - Liams will go onto long term savings until he is at high school and then we can see what he needs.

Hubby and I decided not to buy each other presents this year as we both need new clothes so off to the shops I went on boxing day.

But alas nothing was to be found - I think the few extra kilos I have manged to put on this month have affected the way that the clothese sit and so depressed me more!

So .................... what am I gonna do about it you asked!

Well I am gonna sort my shite out - thats what!

I have been eating well for the last couple of days and also excercising so I am back on track!

On a side note - I was tidying up the computer at home and found the Simply Too Good Too Be True 28 Day program that I signed up for in June 2009 - and never followed!

So I am going to review it each day and post my results from it on her e- I won't count calories - but will continue to follow the weight watchers program.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well it is nearly time to leave work for 6 days - Yay me!

So I would like to wish all those that read my little blog a Very Merry Christmas and I will be back on the 29th with lots of plans and stories from Christmas
I'll leave you with a picture of these cute marshmallow snowmen that I am going to make for the kids on Christmas day

I will locate the link (its at home) and update later.

Be safe!

Christmas Decorations

As previously promised here are some photos of my christmas decorations.

Teachers Gifts

Here are the Teachers gifts I made for the kids Teachers

Each one has paperclips, pins, flag pins, highlighteres and some thin post it flags
They also have Hershey Kisses in them
They also had individual items as well - Miss Cole had heart shaped pins and Miss Horne got some o rings and silver pegs.

The also got a packet of M&M's with a cute little poem that I will find and link to for you.

Mid Month Goal Update

Since we are at the middle of the month I thought it best to update my monthly goals and see where I am at:

1. Get under 100kgs!
Um.................. - I am not doing the best on this one but will keep plodding along!


2. Continue to consume at least 2 litres of water over the weekends
(Weekend one update - 2 Litres plus consumed)
(Weekend Two Update - 2 Litres plus consumed)

3. Swim 4 times this month (Part of the 43 List)
Week one Completed
Week two completed

4. Complete at least 2 crafts this month (Part of the 43 List)
Completed album for boss's leaving gift
I am also finalising a couple of homemade christmas presents.

5. Make at least 2 cards this month (Part of the 43 List)
Made birthday card for friends daughter
Made more christmas cards

6. Have fish at least once this month (Part of the 43 List)
I had fish two nights in a row this week - YUM

7. Complete at least one other item from the List
Purchased sneakers, diary and got a bike

8. Begin one of the longer task from the list
I am going to begin this one by getting my scrapbooking supplies in order and getting all the photos I have printed off in order as well

So overall I think I am progressing very well with this months goals - long may it last!

Reflections and Goals

2010 Reflections:


As the Year nears its end, it is time to reflect on my achievements for 2010:

I have managed to finish 2010 lighter than I started it.
I have begun training for two duathalons.
I now own a bike and use it regularly.
I have begun attending Aqua Aerobics classes


I have weaned myself off watching TV in my spare time and have only got 2 shows that I set the time aside to watch per week.

My Dancing has improved in both styling and spinning!

I have continued to grow my friendships and wean those that were not productive for me.

I have helped raise two beautiful children, with one of them becoming a teenager this year.

I am slowly getting better with my management of money


2011 Goals:

To loose at least 20 kgs this year:
(I hope to try and maintain a 3kg loss per month which will more than blitz this goal)
I will continue with my training for the two duathalons (February and April)
I will include bike riding into my exercise routine
For the remainder of the summer months I will continue to attend Aqua Aerobic classes.

I will keep on top of my scrapbooking by completing at least one page per week

I will work through the items on my 43 things to do before I turn 43 list.

I will improve my money management and reduce my debt considerably!

I will continue to improve my life balance and remove “clutter” from my life in all aspects.

I will continue to help grow two unique individuals with my loving husband and teach them values that will serve them well in the years to come.

Christmas Wreath

Here is my Christmas Wreath!

Nice and feathery!

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

1. Dinner last Friday night was awesome and I got to try a Chocolate Martini – Nice

2. We had a our daughters Graduation Dinner last night at the local RSA (Returned Servicemen’s Association) – it was nice and all the girls looked great and age appropriate! – The Boys all looked dashing in there suits!

3. Our son went to play at a friends house on Sunday and was gone from 9.30am until 4.30pm – they played in the pool most of the day and the mum didn’t catch them in time with sunscreen – Our son is RED! – poor wee thing!

4. As the good mother I am - I used his pain to point out that when I ask to put sunscreen on him in the future to remember this pain and not complain!

5. Weight loss – is slow but I am refocussing my life towards it and it will kick into gear and there will be no stopping me

6. I have been out for a couple of bike rides to help build up to the duathalon – but no more for a while as my bike broke!

7. My New sneakers are awesome – no more tired feet or legs!

8. I know need to find a local cycle shop to get it fixed – it’s the gear thingy!

9. Xmas planning is going great – I have nearly got all my presents purchased just the really hard ones left – the outlaws!

10. Kids finish school on Thursday and hubby finishes his part time job on Wednesday

When Enough is Enough!

I had another gain at weigh in this week and it was to be expected as my eating this week has not been the best!

Why did I do that after an amazing effort the week before to loose 3kgs in one week! (mind you I put on 2kgs the week before that!)

This yo yoing is doing my head in - I just need to be consistent with my efforts - one foot after another so to speak!

I need to go back and re read all my posts from Craig Harper - he makes sense!

I have to make this journey my own and make it achieveable day in and day out!

It can't be too hard or it won't work - it can't be to easy or it wont' work

It needs to be just right for me to succeed in this journey.

So now is the time for me to refocus and get it working for me instead of against me!

So the plan for the remainder of the month is to track and excercise!

Simple as that!

Success will come with that simple formula!

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

1. My sons Prizegiving is tomorrow starting at 10am
2. My hair appointment booked 3 months ago is at 10am tomorrow!
3. Luckily my daughters prize giving is on Friday at 1pm - she is getting the class award and we find out about the Dux exam as well.
4. I managed to buy a new pair of sneakers in the weekend - they are awesome!
5. Xmas cards have been well received I am getting lots a of calls about them - I will post some photos soon - I promise
6. Our BBQ in the weekend for my birthday was a quiet affair but a nice one - my dance teacher and his partner turned up which was awesome.
7. I also caught up with two of my longest known friends on Sunday for High Tea - it was awesome - we always have a get together in December as all our birthdays are in December.
8. We are out for dinner on Friday night as it is our GM's last day :(
9. I got some lovely gifts for my birthday and a promise of a shopping day which is awesome
10. I am slowly getting back into my crafts and can't wait for the Christmas break to make a good dent in all my projects.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!!

Today sees me celebrating my 42nd birthday.

It willbe spend crafting for most of the morning - a little shopping in the afternoon and then we have friends and family coming over in the evening for BBQ.

It will be fun catching up with everyone.

Today also marks the beginning of my 43 Things to do before Turning 43 with the first item ticked off being having a BBQ at our place!

I have also started a page listing everything that I am wanting to achieve in the following year - they are all achievable and I am looking forward to achieveing them all.

December Monthly Goals

Well here they are the goals for the month:

1. Get under 100kgs!
2. Continue to consume at least 2 litres of water over the weekends
3. Swim 4 times this month (Part of the 43 List)
4. Complete at least 2 crafts this month (Part of the 43 List)
5. Make at least 2 cards this month (Part of the 43 List)
6. Have fish at least once this month (Part of the 43 List)
7. Complete at least one other item from the List
8. Begin one of the longer task from the list

So I am trying to focus on getting started on items off my TO DO LIST so that I can get the momentum going with it.
I think with the busy month ahead I should be able to complete all of these things without causing too much stress -
Lets hope Number 1 co-operates this month!

November Goal Update

1. Loose at least 4 kg - (.6/4)

Bit of a fail here - but am still plodding along!

2. Drink at least 2 litres of water each weekend
(First weekend Update Not quite the 2 litres but more than normal!)
(Second Weekend Update - alot better - managed 2 litres WooHoo)
(Third Weekend Update - a great weekend for water consumption!)
(Fourth Weekend Update - Success! over 2 litres consumed!)

3. Load up the remainding items in the wardrobe onto Trade Me
(Yah I have finally loaded up 80% of the items onto trade me -now please sell!)

4. Make 4 Cards this Month
(All done helps that I have finished all of my christmas cards)

5. Look for and if possible purchase my new bike
(I have been to a couple of bike stores and have my sights set on one!)

6. Finalise Christmas Decorations and place settings
(I have put up all the decorations that I am wanting up this year and it looks great - the place setting for Christmas day are still being sorted but are 80% done!)


So overall I am very happy with all the success in November towards my goals.
The weigh loss one was a disappointment but I am working on why and will hopefully have a better December with my goals.

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

1. I had a fantastic loss at weigh in on Saturday - only to sabotage it on Sunday!

2. I will be positng off my christmas card this week - yah!

3. My daughter and I went shopping for her Graduation dinner outfit in the weekend and managed to find something that she is happy to wear

4. My son sent off his Santa letter as well with help from his older sister (it was so cute watching them)

5. I am still struggling a bit in my head with this weight loss journey - but I will sort it out!

6. My 43 things to do before my 43rd birthday list is up now and I am excited to get crossing things off it!

7.We are having a BBQ at our place on my birthday so that will be one thing crossed off the list!

8. My dance workshop went really well, altho I had very sore thighs from the drop for two days

9. I will be updating my monthly goals list for December and reviewing the November goals tomorrow

10. I have finally got my christmas decorations up - will try and post some photos soon.

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

1. We are so proud of our daughter, she was one of 6 students selected to sit the Dux exam at her school


2. She was also accepted into the Academic Institute at our local High School for next years schooling

3. We are also proud of our son who got the sportsman of the night award at his summer soccer and also got the Player of the Day award the following night at his Touch game

4. I have completed all my Christmas cards and have them ready to post on the 1st December

5. I have also finished decorating the water bottles, snap boxes that will be going on the table on Christmas Day

6. My week on the Pro-points Plan did not go according to plan so I am going to go back to the old points system until I am under 100 and use the time between now and then to get to know the new pro points plan better

7. Check out this ladies Christmas Decorations – so nice and simple

8. I am still looking for a new bike – altho my husband has now expressed his concerns regarding the training, as he does not want me training on the roads as we have had a string of cyclist deaths in the last couple of weeks in NZ

9. Check out Gala Darlings interview with her friend Twinkie who is making a living in America from crocheting!

10.Life is starting to feel normal for me again - YAH!

Craigs Words of Wisdom on Weight Loss

Go check out Craigs email post for today - on 10 Ways to Kick Start Your Weight Loss

As usual it all makes sense!

I have listed it below as well for an easy reference for me!


1. Lose the Liquid calories. Drink nothing but water for 28 days. Some people consume over a thousand calories a day in fluids. Which makes obesity almost unavoidable. Throw down a fruit and yoghurt smoothie and you may have just added a lazy six hundred calories to your daily total. Keep everything else the same and drop the liquid calories and you might be laughing all the way to the tailor. Or is it seamstress?


2. Record every single thing you put in your mouth. Not fun, not sexy and not a particularly ground-breaking strategy but effective nonetheless. Keeping an accurate record of food intake increases our awareness, accountability and definitely helps us make better decisions. And no, we don’t do it to become obsessed, we do it to be disciplined, structured, organised and successful. And lean, of course.

3. Find a hill. And walk it. Walking hills is a great calorie burner, a great metabolism booster and a great arse and leg shaper. The bigger the steps, the better. The steeper the hill, the better. If you’re unfit, ease into it. If you can’t find a hill, stairs will do nicely.

4. Buy a skipping rope. And use it. Cheap, convenient and effective. And tough. Generally speaking, skipping will burn more calories (expend more energy) than jogging for the same amount of time. Of course, it depends on technique, intensity and a few other variables but suffice it to say that when I skip the weight (and fat) falls off. Again, if you’re a beginner, ease into it.

5. Do new stuff. New exercise stuff, that is. For many people, their exercise regime is Groundhog Day all over again. All over again. All over again. When we do the same type of exercise, for the same amount of time, at the same intensity level (give or take), we end up with the same body. Typically, if nothing changes (with our exercise program), nothing changes (with our body). Do different to create different.

6. Go sugar-less. Sugar is a killer. Not only does it turn many of us into diabetics and give us skanky teeth, it also puts our body in a hormonal state to store fat more easily – via the increased production of insulin. In other words, sugar creates a chemical reaction in our body that makes weight and fat loss less likely. Ironic that something containing zero fat can play such a huge role in the obesity epidemic. Watch those cereals. Most of them are crap. My fave? Natural oats.

7. Add some intensity. When it comes to exercise, many people are simply going through the motions. When they do exercise, they tend to make a two-out-of-ten effort, while hoping for a nine-out-of-ten result. No, you don’t need to be hard-core and, no, you don’t need to punish yourself but you do need to work at a level that necessitates physiological adaptation. Yes, intensity is relative and, yes, you should ease into it if you’re a beginner. But, if you’ve been training for a while, it might be time to get out of first gear.

8. Prepare all your meals. All of them. No take-away. No restaurant meals. No snacks from Seven-Eleven. Nothing in a wrapper. So simple and obvious that I shouldn’t have to suggest it but most people still won’t do it.

9. Find Two Minutes. Two minutes every hour you’re awake, that is. Did you know that if you can find a measly two minutes to do some moderate exercise every waking hour, you’re gonna add four hours (ish) of exercise to your weekly regime? Four hours! Your hourly instalment could come in the form of stair-walking, step-ups on a box, sit-ups, exercise bike, skipping, body-weight squats or a bazillion other simple and practical calorie-burning options. Two minutes isn’t even long enough to crack a sweat but add all those micro-workouts together and you’ll be enjoying a leaner, meaner you. I know many people who have dropped weight this way. If you must miss an instalment or two (for practical reasons), simply make up for it later in the day. You may even have to stretch yourself to a six-minute workout!

10. Exercise during the ads. Fact 1: Night time television typically contains somewhere around fifteen minutes of advertisements per hour. Fact 2: The average Aussie watches around three hours of TV per day. Fact 3: If Mr Average’s entire exercise program consisted of nothing but getting his heart rate up during the ads, he would be exercising for 5.25 hours per week! And losing his gut at a rapid rate.



The Last Bit
Naturally, the above list is not an exhaustive one but, rather, a few suggestions that have proven to be effective for many of the people I’ve worked with over the years. If you feel so inclined, you might want to start with one or two and build from there. Attempting all ten (suggestions) simultaneously would be a recipe for failure.

Motivational Monday

Click on this linke to 100 Wise Ways to feel better fast

I hop eyou enjoy them like I did

Finally Friday

This has been a long week for me and the weight struggles have been evident!

I know for sure that tomorrows weigh in will show a large gain and I really don't want to acknowledge it!

I have also decided to keep going on the old points plan and the Wendie Plan version until I get to under 100 and also work on getting to know the Pro-Points Plan in the mean time - changing over to the new plan really thru me this week so for my own sanity I need to got back to what I know and learn more about new plan.

I have also got onto some other struggles and am feeling the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter!

I am hoping to purhcase my new bike next week as well and then I need to get some new walking shoes!

So for now things are slowly getting better in my little world!

Monthly Goal Update

Being the middle of the month I thought it was best to check how I was going on my monthly goals:


1. Loose at least 4 kg - (.6/4) - This is going slowly - time to move it up a gear!


2. Drink at least 2 litres of water each weekend

(First weekend Update Not quite the 2 litres but more than normal!)


(Second Weekend Update - alot better - managed 2 litres WooHoo)

3. Load up the remainding items in the wardrobe onto Trade Me - opps haven't got onto this yet - must do it soon!

4. Make 4 Cards this Month - Another thing not yet accomplished - but I have ideas and I will definetly get them done by the end of the month!

5. Look for and if possible purchase my new bike

(I have been to a couple of bike stores and have my sights set on one!)

6. Finalise Christmas Decorations and place settings

(I have started organising these so that is getting the ball rolling on this one!)

Overall I am feeling happy with my progress on my month goals - would prefer the weight to be lower but am happy to not be gaining - I am trying to get my head around the new pro-points system for Weight Watchers but I am sure once I have that sorted, things will start moving along nicely

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

1. The cocktail Party in the weekend was awesome – lots of lovely ladies to talk to, lots of yummy nibbles to eat and lots of fabulous cocktails to drink!


2. BUT the cocktail party was so good that the scales on Monday morning were screaming at me to get off!!!

3. But the new Pro-points plan has started so that will help me get back to focussing on my weight loss journey

4. On Saturday I managed to get all of my 8 year old sons Santa presents – Whew am so glad that part is over

5. Now to try and think what to get my 13 year old daughter who only wants money to buy clothes with, but I have told her that she doesn’t just get money while her brother still believes cause Santa does not give cash! (as I tell him!)

6. I also managed to look in a couple of bike shops over the weekend and I think I have found the bike I will purchase – I can’t get over the price of them – eek!

7. Preparations for my Christmas decorating is coming along very nicely – I am just waiting for some coloured cardstock from my Stampin Up lady and then I can finish off the Christmas cards and belly banding the bottles and snap boxes – I will post pictures later

8. I have also nearly finished making the magnetic noticeboards for my nephews and cousins kids – photos to follow on those as well

9. Work life has settled down and things are running a lot smoother – thank goodness

10. Hubby and I have spoken about the savings and all is good in the world again!

Motivating Monday.......

Today I have another inspiring post from Mr Craig Harper on our need for Approval.

Enjoy



“Some people spend their lives chasing acceptance and approval but all they find is misery.”




Does that sound familiar? Have you done a little too much chasing over the years? Is it time for you to let go of the destructive habit of seeking the acceptance, approval and even permission of others? Perhaps you’re good enough all by yourself? Perhaps you should stop giving away your power? Perhaps in the letting go you’ll find the only acceptance you need: self-acceptance.



Try this:



“I approve of me.”



Liberating, huh?



An interesting phenomenon about us often-insecure creatures becomes apparent when someone is liked by ninety-nine people and disliked by one. Guess which ‘group’ will have the biggest impact on that person’s mental and emotional states? Is it the one detractor or the ninety-nine fans?



You know the answer.



Why? Because (1) on some level we have an unhealthy and unrealistic desire for universal approval and acceptance (that crap will wear you out) and (2) we have an uncanny knack of finding a needle of negativity in a haystack of hope. And then, we focus all of our misplaced attention on that teeny-tiny needle. We ignore the considerable good while finding the bad. Dumb plan. And a poor investment of our emotions.



Of all the human drivers, the desire to be wanted, loved and, of course, liked is near the top of the list. And while that desire is completely understandable – normal even – it becomes a problem when the want becomes a desperate, unhealthy and irrational need.



Here’s the scoop: not everyone will like you and that’s okay.



For your own health, it needs to be okay. When it’s not, you have an issue. Get comfortable with the concept and your head will be a much healthier place to visit. Perhaps there are people who enjoy universal approval and have zero detractors but I’m yet to meet one. And I won’t hold my breath.



Some suggestions:



1. Don’t compromise yourself in order to be liked. You might be liked by others but you’ll be loathed by yourself. Don’t work at being popular, work at being you. It’s a lot easier and requires a lot less energy and acting.



2. Identify your core values – the things that are most important to you – and live a life in alignment with those values. That way you are being your authentic self rather than trying to satisfy somebody else’s needs, expectations, values, demands and rules. When your decisions and behaviours are a reflection of your core life values, you will be living a life of authenticity and the ‘need’ to be liked will be a non-issue.

Confession Time!

I need to off load my brain to you all and confess.................

I AM STRUGGLING........................

I go thru the motions each day but I am not as foccussed as I have been previously! - I am good during my working day but loose it at night and eat and eat - Yesterday alone I ate over the day 3 chocolate bars!!!

I just can't seem to find the drive to get this weight loss journey back on track!

I do know after previous "life coaching" that I am someone who needs to have all the areas of my life in order for my life to roll along smoothly - these include work, health, family and me time.

Work - has been stressing me lately and I am on edge all the time there -
Health - while I am still walking to work, the eating is nowhere near good enough to be loosing weight
Family - This is probably one place that is good - and that is thanks to my hubby, altho he has been busy with commitments lately, that I am left alone with the kids at night - just me and the fridge!
Me time - well this is no existent! - I have not scrapbooked for months and months and the last lot of creating was for my sons soccer coaches end of year thank you, which wasn't very challenging creative wise!

And now to throw another worry into my mix - MONEY!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yup I have been spending a little bit more than I should and from our savings account without hubbys knowledge - ARGH!!!

And I don't want to tell him so I am needing to go to the bank and get an overdraft on my personal account to pay for it !

Why do I do this to myself!!!!!!!

So how do I get my groove back? How do I make all those areas of my life happy again? How? How? How?

Ten on Tuesday (Opps a Day Late!)

1. Happy Birthday to My Lovely Husband who will be turning 46 tomorrow!(opps that would be today now!)


2. There is just under 1 calendar month to my birthday – yah me!

3. I surprised hubby by booking him in for a round of golf at St Andrews Golf Course ……in Hamilton with a good friend on Sunday just gone – He loved it!

4. I am attending a cocktail party this weekend – free cocktails all for the price of 1 bottle of bubbles and a plate of sweets to share!

5. My Daughters Jump Jam team won the local competition at our towns local fireworks display – they were so good!

6. My son has been asking for quite a while now to get “flames” cut into his hair? – I keep putting him off!

7. My local community course got cancelled – I guess not many ladies want to get Hot and Spicy in High Heels like I did!

8. Xmas planning is coming along great – will take some photos and post them up so you can see all my craftiness!

9. Weight loss is coming along slowly – but it is going down so that is all good

10. I haven’t been able to look for a bike yet – hopefully this weekend

Motivating Monday................

As you can see from my post below - I still can not post from home - argh! - I just don't know what is the problem and who to ask for help as I don't want friends knowing about this blog - so maybe a stranger is the way to go???

Work has been very draining and busy for me of late and has been testing my motivation and determination on this weigh loss journey.

Has it been winning - well to be honest - there have been a few weak moments but surprisingly not at work - I am very good with my eating whilst at work, so I am proud of myself for that!

Its those darn evenings that I need to sort out!

But I will ge there  - Weigh in on Saturday saw another .600 gone so now only 3.1 to loose this month to be under the 100Kg!

I can do this  - no to remain focussed and achieve it!

So here is a link to Craig Harpers recent post about When the Motivation Subsides - Hope you enjoy it

If you are wanting to sign up to receive Craigs emails then go to his website - http://www.craigharper.com.au/ and there is a sign in section on the right hand side to sign up for the emails

Will my words show at home today??? -ARGH NO!

Ten on Tuesday

ten1. I am still recalling little titbits from the trip to Wellington and smiling to myself! – It was a great weekend!


2. I have set my new weight loss goal to be under the 100 at the end of November!

3. Now that we are heading into November – my Christmas preparations are well underway!

4. I have put my 43 things to do before turning 43 List up – it is one of the Pages listed under the Header above

5. I have also created another page with my Current Month Goals to help keep me focused on things

6. I am hoping to start a course at the local community hall called Hot and Spicy Heels – hoping to get some tips that I can use in my dancing

7. My BFF is moving house soon so I am helping her out with the moving and cleaning of the old house

8. I am also trying to install a new evening schedule for myself to help me achieve some of my craft goals and take me away from the telly!

9. My Daughter has made her schools Jump Jam team and they are going to be displaying there routine at the local fireworks display on 5th November

10. My Son is still not enjoying his touch games and feels like no one is sharing the ball with him

No Frills Personal Development

I have copied in some words of wisdom from the infamous Craig Harper - I receive his daily emails and find them very useful in my journey.

Here is his -  No Frills Personal Development post from a couple of weeks ago (I have been keeping it in my inbox at work but decided to post it here so I can find it easily!)



So, here it is team: my no frills, twelve-step, personal development philosophy for people who hate self-help stuff and cheesy motivational types. In order to avoid boredom, confusion and distraction, I’ve kept it simple and succinct.




Step 1. Don’t talk shit. Shit-talkers are notorious under do-ers, under-achievers and under-performers. They’re also pains in the arse.



Step 2. Don’t wait for shit to ‘work out’. Idiots wait for things to work out. Rather than hoping things will happen, make them happen.



Step 3. Lose the shit attitude. Attitude is a choice. Better attitude equals better decisions, behaviours and outcomes.



Step 4. Don’t eat shit. Being unhealthy on a physical level means you won’t function optimally on any level: mentally, emotionally, professionally or socially. Eat shit and you’ll look, feel and function like shit.



Step 5. Give a shit about others. Being a self-centred dick ain’t a recipe for success.



Step 6. Don’t make shit harder than it needs to be. Life’s challenging enough without you complicating the simple. Suck it up Princess.



Step 7. Do shit early in the day. Being productive early puts you in a better place (mentally, emotionally and creatively) for the rest of the day.



Step 8. Let go of your shit beliefs. It’s time to lose those self-limiting, disempowering beliefs. They’ve run your life for long enough. You’re good enough, talented enough and, yes, you deserve happiness.



Step 9. Shit happens and life’s not fair - deal with it. More often than not success or failure will be determined by the way you react to the situations, circumstances and events (good and bad, foreseen or not) of your world. Better reactions equal better results.



Step 10. Don’t focus on (or obsess about) shit you can’t change. Wasting your time, talent and emotional energy on things that are beyond your control is a recipe for frustration, misery and stagnation. Invest your energy in the things you can control.



Step 11. Don’t avoid shit. Putting your head in the sand just shows the world your arse. And none of us want that. Lasting change begins with awareness and acknowledgement. Step up and do what’s necessary.



Step 12. Don’t over-think shit. Analysis paralysis is a painful, pointless and unnecessary condition. To think is good. To obsess is bad. Stop obsessing.


I hope you enjoyed it and I didn't offend anyone - apologies if I did

Here is a link to Craigs great site for more motivational information!

Goals for November

Well I have sat down and thought about what I would like to achieve in the month of November and here  is the list.

I have also created a seperate page on the blog to list the current months goals so that I can refer back to them easily - and maybe add notes through out the month (will see how that goes)

So without further adue - I present you with November Goals!!!!



1. Loose at least 4 kg




2. Drink at least 2 litres of water each weekend



3. Load up the remainding items onto Trade Me that are sitting in the wardrobe



3. Make 4 Cards this Month



4. Look for and if possible purchase my new bike



5. Finalise Christmas Decorations and place settings



All very achievable - now to begin achieving them!

Back to it and Goal Setting!!!!

Yup thats right - I am back to it!

It - being my weight loss journey - I have come back from Wellington after a minor blow out and am back to being focused on what it takes to get to my next goal.

I am also going to work on some mini goals for the month of November to help keep me motivated.

The Larger Goals for the remainder of 2010 are:

1. To be under 100kgs by the end of the year
2. Purchase a new bike and get training for the two Duathalons in February and April
3. Look at the couch to 5k running programme (oh yes I put it out there!)

Now to work out those mini goals for November and December to keep me focused on this journey - I might also include some non weigh related ones so I can work towards completing items off  The List!


What are your goals for the remainder of the year?

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

1. The weekend away was amazing and I had so much fun!


2. I danced with at least 50 different men!

3. I learned so much from the workshops about adding style to my dancing

4. I feel so more confident in my dancing now

5. My feet were so sore on Sunday night!

6. There are some amazing dancers in New Zealand

7. Jordan and Tatiana who are the world champs in West Coast Swing were AMAZING to watch

8. I so want to go again next year

9. But will not do two workshops in one day – OUCH!

10. Now to sweet talk hubby so he is ok with me going!

Motivational Monday

I found this post by Ms Bitchcakes really helpful and wanted to share it with you all.

Here is an excerpt from it:

Now, I really do want to drill this concept into everyone's heads because I think sometimes people just don't get it or aren't ready to get it, so please try to absorb this: You are not going to "lose the weight" or get to goal if you don't make the changes - so focus on what you have control over: the changes and the choices you make - NOT the number on the scale.

It is so true - Those little changes and choices that we make in our day to day lives are going to get us to our Goal.

Check out the whole post here


Thanks Sheryl for the inspiration you give me- You Rock My World!

Twas the Night Before..................

MY WEEKEND AWAY!!!!!!!!!!!!

Woo hoo One more big sleep and I will be jetting my way to Wellington and Cerocing the weekend away!

Well I hope its one big sleep as I am tired! - I have not been sleeping well the last couple of nights and am worried that I am going to forget something which is silly cause I am the queen of lists and have checked it twice!

Off to bed nice and early tonight - I will be up at 5am getting ready - weigh in as well - not gonna be pretty I don't think - the weeks snacking has been terrible!

But I have packed WW snacks to take away with me, so I will at least know the points value of what I eat with them -  now to make sure I make good food choices for my main meals!

I won't be able to post until I get back and since I have Tuesday off and my home computer won't play nicely I have "hopefully' got a prearranged post for you on Monday - linking to Ms Bitchcakes and her last post!

I hope you enjoy it!

Catch ya later!

I was Tagged!................

But in a good way................

The lovely Deb over at Diminishing Deb tagged me with an eight question meme

Here are her questions and my answers:



1. Is there a book that has made you change your life in some way? - Unfortunately no - but I am still looking for the one that will!

2. Black Liquorice - do you love it or hate it? Have you ever met anyone who doesn't have a strong opinion on black liquorice? I can take it or leave it personally

3. What is the worst job you ever had? The shortest job I have been in was for just under three months because I could not stand the boss/owner!

4. What are you waiting for? Good question – What am I waiting for??????

5. What country do you want to see, or see more of? I would love to go to Ireland and see where my Grandparents grew up and met some family members there!

6. What is the first thing you notice when meeting new people? Oh is this shallow of me – I notice what they are wearing – clothes, accessories and then usually ask them where they got it from (Ladies only!)

7. What are you grateful for today? I am grateful for my family, a husband who loves me with all my quirks and for my children who are two amazing little individuals

8. What would a really fun evening be like for you? At this time of my life it would involve champagne, good friends and a good looking man who can lead me in amazing Ceroc moves and make me feel like the best female dancer in the world!

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

1. Woo hoo my weekend away in Wellington is only 3 Big sleeps away!

2. With so much going on in my little old life at the moment - I am struggling a bit with this weight loss journey - but I will be back into it properly when I return from Wellington!

3. As mentioned below I have signed up for two duathalons - EEK!

4. My son has recently been given a nice goalie shirt - that he absolutely loves and wears all the time!

5. My daughter last week got her self a boyfriend who then "dumped" her three days later - ah the trials and tribulations of a 13 year old!

6. Xmas prepartions are starting soon!

7. I am compiling a list of 43 things to do after turning 42 but before turning 43 - will post soon

8. My discipline in the evenings with no snacking is getting better!

9. Check out this amazing wedding invite -

10. I placed some jewellery on layby at Michael Hill Jewellers in the weekend and guess what they do now!!! - Charge a $10.00 layby fee - non refundable! - Argh!

Guess What I Just Did!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OMG - I can't believe I did this

I have just signed myself up for not one but TWO duathlons!!!!


They are ont  he 27th Februrary 2011 and 17th April 2011 in Auckland

Here is the website if you want to check out what its all about

http://www.realduathlon.co.nz/

Wish me luck!!

Oh and now to go and get the bike!

Oops I did it Again................

Yeah - thats right baby - I did it again!!!!!

I had another successful night of no snacking and staying focused on my task at hand!

I am hoping to make this a regular event in my  life - no snacking and being productive in the evenings!

Long may it last!

The scales this morning showed me lighter again ( I have been weighing daily), which I am very happy about - altho I am still getting rid of the gain from last weekend, so I am not sure what they scales will say at the weigh in tomorrow morning.

But I will be happy with anything as I know I have lost this week overall.

I am out for dinner tonight with a friend so I need to keep strong and watch what I am eating!

Will try and sort out the computer over the weekend (again)!

I DID IT!.......................

I had a plan last night to get some computer work done and I stuck to it - no net surfing, not snacking and I felt great!

It is a small thing to some but to me it was a great victory - I usually end up surfing around the net while snacking on something and then get angry with myself then go and blob in front of the telly!

But not last night! - Once I had finished the computer work I took some photos of  clothes I am wanting to load up on Trade Me and then went to bed to read!

Yay for me!

The plan tonight is to load up the trade me auctions and then tidy up some more of my craft room! And NO SNACKING!!!!!!!!!!!

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

1. I am slowly getting ready for Wellington - 10 more sleeps to go!

2. We headed to Taupo over the weekend for a soccer tournament - it was cold! But the boys did well so that is the main thing!

3. My sons starts his Summer Touch games tonight - fingers crossed it goes well!

4. He also started Summer Soccer last night - it went well!

5. I got my hair coloured last Wednesday - it turned a bit purple/grey - thanks to the apprentice - its ok I can work it!

6. My Daughter is very happy to be back at school - I think she was getting bored over the holidays!

7. I am starting to get onto doing more crafts now that summer is here!

8. Lets hope my scrapbooking is included in these grand plans!

9. I am also needing to get onto my Christmas planning!

10. I am glad that I am back walking - it helps keep me focused and gives me that down time I need to off load the brain!

Still Alive and Kicking!

ARGH!!!! Computers drive me crazy!

I still haven't worked out why my home one is not cooperating and am a bit nervous about doing anything as I have at least a zillion blog pages saved and I do not want them lost!


MAybe that is why it is playing up???

Maybe I need to print them all out and delete some???

Oh the decisions - all I know is that I miss not posting on my blog - and I think it does help me keep focused on my journey.

Weigh in this week was a day early due to being in Taupo over the weekend.

And it was a nice weigh in with a loss of .900gm!

Getting back to my lowest again (.100 away!)

My workday posting is limited as I am in a cubicle with another and I know she does watch my screen now and then as when I am craftblog searching she comments on different things - so I am not to keen for her to know about this blog!

Anyway back soon!

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

Todays Ten on Tuesday is brought to you by the number 16 and the letters L and E


1. As mention previously I am now the proud owner of a pair of size 16 jeans.... - I wore these to work on Friday and the following conversation took place:
Male Co-worker - do you have new jeans???
Me - Why Yes I do!
Male Co worker -Good for you - You have an arse now!!!
(We go way back so all good)
2. My Dresses for Dance are a L not XL

3. I purchased three new every day Bra's and they are a 16E (The cup size increased from a DD - is this ok? since the numbers went down???)

4. I also purchased a strapless Bra for my dance dresses - it is an 18E.

5. I also purchased some new sexy knickers - size smaller as well!!!!

6. I know have three sets of matching lingerie!

7. Now to find a sexy nightie!

8. Weigh in saw me drop .800grams and helped me get back in the weight loss zone!

9. The last three days have been excellent food wise.

10. Did I mentioned I am in the zone baby!

Can I post at home yet??? That would be a NO!

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

1. Yay - I am back walking this week and it feels great

2. Last Week I tried one of my new dresses at dance class and it worked well -lots of room for dancing!

3. Now to get the new underwear and shoes to go with them

4. My lovely BFF brought me some fashion tape to help keep the fabric over my bra over my boobs!

5. My son won his Year cross country last week - third year in a row! - Well Done Mr Moo!

6. My Daughter had a heart to heart with her dad last week over boys and mean girls! - He was nervous!

7. My son is also perfecting his bicycle kick for soccer - he is getting better every day!

8. Tomorrow I have the day off to get my hair done and also my eyes and brows! - Ah a day of pampering!

9. Did I mention I purchased some new jeans??? - The label reads "Slim 16" - Woo Hoo a size 16 - now to get all my other clothes into a 16!

10. I have to start getting organised for Wellington -what I am taking and what I am wearing - oh the decisions!

Ready for the Weekend.........

What will the result be in the morning I wondered to myself today???

I know I will get the result that I deserve based on my effort for the last week!- but I really would like a loss!

I have not been able to excercise this week due to the stromy weather in NZ.

My eating has not been the best!

So what will be will be!

This weekend sees me taking the kids to there cousins birthday party at Chipmunks - I will make sure I take some healthy snacks for me as I know that my will power can be low at those places. - I will follow it up with some yummy subway for lunch!

The evening sees me and a few friends heading off to Finale in Auckland City for a night of entertainment.
It is another Drag Queen Show!
Love it!

I now need to decide am I drinking or not???
I guess the main question to ask myself is what do I want more- a loss next week or a hangover on Sunday!

I think I know the answer to that!

Have a great weekend - I am going to try and work out what is wrong with my posting on the home computer this weekend - fingers crossed I can get it going!

Help Please

Hellow there my lovely online friends who stop by for a quick read!

I hope your day is going well???

I need your help please - I am unable to post from my home computer???

What do I need to check???

I have made sure that the word colour is not white, but apart from that I have no idea!

I can't even add photos from home or edit older posts!

Please help me????

Thanking you in advance for any and all help given.

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

1. My sons end of soccer get together on Saturday went really well - the boys enjoyed themselves and the coach loved the album I made for him!

2. My clothes shopping on Friday with my BFF went really well - I managed to purchased three long dresses for Wellington at Labour weekend and the one for the ball only cost me $29.00 - Gotta love the Chinese Shops!

3. Now to try out the dresses at dance class to make sure I can dance in them!

4. My daughter has just experienced her first heart break! - Poor wee thing - the boy she liked asked her arch enemy out and she was gutted! - So glad I am not 13!

5. Check out  our routine that we did in Hamilton the week before Champs - here is the link - the intro is a bit long where we all walk in but the actual routine starts at about 1.36 and I pop up at different times - the first is around the 2.00 mark- eek!

6. I am definetly going to try this treat!

7. Weigh in this week saw a loss of .200 - I need to refocus if I am going to make my next goal!

8.Our 80's themed dance party on Saturday night was great - altho I didn't end up getting decked out in 80's gear!

9. This Spring weather is bringing me down - the rain is terrible and the last couple of days have brought storm warnings to NZ

10.Oh nearly forgot - took my car in for an oil and filter change as the mechanic had a special of 69.90 - I ended up diving off after paying 386.00 - apparently I had an oil leak and leaking cylinders in the rear brakes! - ARGH!!!!

Mid Week Sneaky Peek!

This mornings sneaky peek saw me down .600 so heading in the right direction!

Another couple of days of great food choices and lots of water, sprinkled with excercise and I should be able to report a nice loss - that is if I can sort my home computer out!

I took my car to the mechanics this morning for a oil and filter change on a special deal of $69.90 - I think walked a quick 15 minute walk to work - to receive a call about an hour later advising me of a few oil leaks and brake fluid leaking in the back wheels - now the bill is just under $400.00 - EEK!!!

And there goes my shopping money for Friday!!!!!!!

Annoyed is a nice way to put it!

So whats a girl to do - well I am going to look thru my house and see what I can sell on Trade Me and hopefully I can recover some of the $400.00.

Altho I am not sure exactly what I have left in the house to sell - might need to really look thru the closets

Oh well life goes on!

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

1. We are doing our Dance routine again this Saturday night at our Franchise Dance Party.


2. I still do not know what I am going to where to the dance party which has an 80’s theme – Ideas please!!

3. The kids prize-giving was last weekend and my daughters Team received there medals for winning there division.

4. I have this Friday off with my BFF shopping for outfits for Wellington

5. I have finally finished the album for my sons soccer coach as a thank you for the hard work he had done this year.

6. I have started up my walking to work again this week – the body is feeling it today!

7. I am borrowing this idea as part of my Christmas décor – as long as I can find some Turquoise flowers!

8. I am currently working on the end of year Teacher Gifts for the kids teachers – I know I know – GEEK!

9. And as a result of number 7 & 8 I need to get my head around what projects I currently have on the go and finish some before I start another!

10. I must remember to update and complete my 101 things to do in 1001 days – I have neglected it! – oh Kazz has put up a list of 101 things to do – check it out there are some great things to do – I might have to re-evaluate some of mine!

WOW - Really...............

Weigh in this week saw my biggest gain yet!

1.5kg! - EEK

Two things have majorly contributed to this:

1. TTOTM started within hours of my morning weigh in!
2. The rice crackers consumed the night before - when will I learn that those little suckers retain water with me like nobodys business

So what does this mean???

Well It means I am sorting my shite out this week - lots of water, lots of healthy yummy food choices and walking to work!

Which I did today! - felt good to be back walking !

On a side note - I can't seem to post from home at the moment when I create a post only the title shows up
Any suggestions to what I have done???

What a Week!...............

This week has been unbelievably busy and tiring for me!

Oh and not the best food choices either - why is that?? - I get tired and busy and all good intentions go out the door!

I have not walked all week, I have only just begun drinking my water yesterday and again last night I ate way to much cheese!

So starting tomorrow (no I won't binge today!) I am back on track!

I WANT to be under 100kg asap!

I WANT to met my goal of loosing another 6 kgs by the end of October and I am only going to do this by following the programme!

I KNOW I can do this!!!

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

1. Opps I am posting this a day later but work is urber busy lately!

2. Today is the 5th Anniversary of my fathers passing (Miss you Daddy)

3. My mother passed away 7 1/2 years ago (I miss you to Mum!)

4.My daughter is loving having her friend stay with us for 5 weeks while the girls father is in England

5. My sons latest comment to me: (Mum can you carry this? - ME - What am I  a pack horse - Son - Packhorse/Mum = same thing???) - and he is only 8! - So need to sort that out of him!!!

6.Dance champs went really well - and I have come away inspired and ready to track down a man! - to become my regular dance partner that is!

7. I reached my goal of loosing 12kgs by Champs - Yay me!! - Next weight loss goal is to loose 6 kgs by Labour weekend (22 October) which hopefully will have me weighing in at 96.2 (OMG!!!!)

8. Altho Spring has arrived in Auckland so has the spring rain - I have not been able to walk to work this week yet!

9. I am hoping to participate in this local walk for breast cancer.

10. Fathers Day on Sunday was spent..........watching soccer!

Weekend Update

Well I did try and update you all yesterday but for some reason the words below the heading were not showing???

So quickly!

Weigh in on Saturday saw a fantastic loss of 1.8kg!!!

Woo hoo!!!!

Going under 100 is so close!

Champs was also on Saturday and it was amazing watching all the great dancers and being in amongst them all I find it quite inspiring and makes me want to get a whole lot more serious about my dancing!

Long may that feeling last!

We didn't place in the teams event but thats ok - we had fun!

Will try and post some photos later - if I can get posts to work at home!

HELP Where have the words below gone?????

Competition Day Today!!!!!

An interesting Way to spend an Evening................

We all decided to meet at an establishment for a light dinner before tackling the motorway last night, my initial journey to the  establishment pub was eventful due to me taking a few wrong roads which lead to a traffic jam!
We managed to get out of it quickly and met up with everyone - I enjoyed a small chicken wrap from Nandos (next door to the pub) as I was not prepared to spend up to $20.00 for my meal and the only low point option was not available (Small non scale victory for me!)

We headed off and I was very surprised that the motorway was a smooth run through.

We arrived at our spray tanning place for 7pm, a brief run down of what will happen and we began.

There was 9 of us in total so we got sprayed in car lots, so we weren't all having to hangi around to the end.

My friends convinced me to go the whole hog and get me bum and boobs sprayed and I thought - what the hell - when am I ever going to have a brown bum!

So after the initial shock of standing in a paper G string in front of a lady (whilst trying to suck it in a bit!) it was ok.

I will post some before and after photos of my legs that I have taken and will try and get some others taken as well.

My overall thoughts - it was ok - we don't look like oompa loompas (Deb) and one thing I will remember for next time (Yes there will be another time) is that with my chubby knees there is a slight overhang when standing so now when I sit there are some white marks! so I need to bend a bit and get sprayed

Oh and my curvaceous body doesn't look as bad tanned!!!!

Spray Tan Day

Yup todays the day I get my first spray tan and can you believe I forgot my camera :(

I am so annoyed with myself - I was packing my bag with all my cotton dark clothes and forgot to put in the camera.

I am hoping some one else will bring one!

Sneak Peak this morning saw me down .700 so fingers crossed I can maintain this and loose a bit more on Saturdays weigh in!

Friend Makin Monday - But Posted on Tuesday

Kenz over at All the Weigh has a lovely post about Makin Friends and sharing some info - I think its a lovely idea so here are my answers:

I Like.........being at home creating!
I Don't Like...............being interrupted while creating!
I Love.............my family!
I Dream of...........being slim, trim and looking fabulous
I Wonder........if my dream will come true and be all that I hope for.
I Know............that I can succeed with my weight loss journey as long as I remain focused!
I Went............and purchased some useless items in the weekend!
I Have........the ability to succeed at anything I set my mind to!
I Think........ that I would like to win a million dollars some day!
I Plan..........on spending the winnings wisely!
I Regret.........many many things but those things have made me who I am today - Good or Bad!
I Do.............miss my mother and father every day
I Don't............want to be working full time in 10 years time!
I Drink.............Diet Coke - but am down to 1 can a work day!
I Wish.............that I could get up to date with my scrapbook albums instead of being nearly 2 years behind!
I Am..........push over at work!
I Am Not............a mean person!
I Need..............Lots of new clothes!
I Graduated.........from kindergarden???
I Hope...........that my children grow up to lead happy, fulfilling lives with no regrets!
I Want............Shiney new dance shoes!
I Sometimes..........forget to help out my husband with the housework when I am in a creative mood!
I Always...............will love my Man!
I Can..........always count on my best friend to be there when I need her
I Work..........as an Accounts Administrator for a stationery supply company
I Cannot........understand why people have to be mean to others to make themselves feel better!
I Avoid...........confrontations like the plague!
I Will.........get better at standing up for myself!

Ten On Tuesday

1. Champs this Saturday - We are Ready!!!!

2. Fathers Day on Sunday - we will be doing a few different soccer related things but will start with a bacon , eggs and hash brown breakie for Dad!

3. Still going strong on the weight loss - getting closer to going under 100 that it is an amazing feeling!

4. Our Dress Rehersal in Hamilton went really well! - Everyone seemed to really enjoy the performance!

5. My son is keen for summer to roll around so he can get back to the skate park and improve his scooter tricks!

6. My Daughter will be going with hubby to the information evening tomorrow at the local High School that she will be attending next year.

7. If  you like organisation - check out this blog.

8. These labels are so cute for slipping into the kids lunch boxes.

9. There are a lot of blogs out there posting instructions to help beautify your blog - check out this one!

10. WOO HOO No more saturday morning soccer games for 6 months!!!

The Countdown is On...................

The last week before champs has finally arrived!

This Saturday is the big day and I am excited.  All the ladies from my class are going to met up on Wednesday and get spray tanned.

That will be fun  interesting as I have never been spray tanned before and this is someone spraying us - not in a booth!

I will try and remember to take some before and after shots (of my legs) for you!

Today has been good - great food choices and as it is my -4 day low in points so far so that is a good thing!

I am still feeling a bit tired from the weekend but I think another early night tonight and I should be good, altho another late night on Tuesday - (I must remember it is nearly over)

Weekend Recap

Well the weekend has zoomed past so fast!

Where to begin????

Weigh in saw a gain of .400!!!!

Not too bad in the scheme of things especially since the excercise part has been terrible due to hurt ankles and wet weather! - I am hoping to get back into it again next week but the weather forecast predicts rain Monday and Tuesday, so will see how it goes.

We had the last of the kids soccer games on Saturday as well and then my son went off to a birthday party and my daughter and I drove to the middle of nowhere for her end of soccer get together and could only stay for 1 hour as I had to be leaving Auckland for Hamilton at 2pm.

We had a dress rehersal planned for 4pm!

It went well and dance champs is now under a week away!!!!

Our outfits are so-so not the best for this curvaceous body but who cares!

There was a dance party in Hamilton last night as well so we stayed down there and had dinner at Lone Star - you will be proud I had a salad!

THe evening saw the whole team put on a full dress rehersal/performance with a fun intro - as out team name is "Men in Black" we all walked in to the start of that and then began our performance.

Overall it wasn't to bad and we are all doing the best that we can which is all that we ask of each other!

We then drove back to Auckland and I got to bed at 1.30am! - Very late for this Dancing Queen.

I managed to have a nice sleep in till 8.30am this morning and have been on the good since - with tiding the house, grocery shopping and son entertaining at the local skate park!

Time now to do some computer work and head off to our last Sunday practise!

Then early to bed for me I think!

Home Today.....................

I am at home today with my youngest who was very sick last night and of course only needed his mother to make him feel better!
The thing is I am exhausted today!

He is settled on the couch dozing on and off and I wish it was me!

The one thing I have realised today, is that it is so easy to go off the rails when I feel like this - tired, weary, but with lots to do which makes me feel overwhelmed which leads to eating!!

Now is the time that I need to dig deep and find the strength to resist all the crap food, eat well and drink my water!

Today while I was out at the doctors with him I decided that I would have subway for lunch - YUM!
I was standing in the line and thought why not get a foot long! - You know just stuff the tummy up and sit all afternoon processing it!

YUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!! - where did that thought come from!!!!!!!!!!

And I will let you know I did resist it and got the normal six inch!
I feel so good about this non scale victory!

Now to sit down work out what I need to do and what I can do and complete them!

The Weary Week Continues..................

Yes I am weary as I was last week - the problem being the late Tuesday night - Once dance champs is over I will be home earlier so will get more sleep!

I am starting to think of the dance moves a lot more now while doing other things and I also find myself doing the moves as well while waiting for dinner to cook or waiting for someone at work - weird but apparently very good according to my dance teachers!

9 Days to go!

Hey! Did YOU realise that yesterday was 4 months to go to Christmas Day!!!!


EEK - I better get onto my organising!!!! (LOL)

Food choices last night were great and a sneak peek this morning showed a downwards movement - not sure what the end result will be but another couple of low point days should help right some wrongs!

I didn't walk today due to my weariness and I am also needed by the kids at there soccer training straight after work so the car option gets me to them earlier!

Oh roll on Saturday - it is the last game of the season! and then we get some Saturday's back!

Altho this weekend is another busy one for me!

Ah the life of a Mum! - wouldn't trade it for the world!
Well maybe a small temporary trade for a couple of quiet hours doing my thing! or sleeping!

10 Days to Champs.....................

Well dance class last night was good altho I tweaked my ankle in the class so I stopped and rested it ready for the comp practise half an hour later!

Practise is going great - we now have our outfit - will post some photos after comps so you can see it - not the best but hey everyone will be wearing the same so all good!

Food choices yesterday were stellar up to dance class when I decided to have a cuppa and a couple of chocolate biscuits!

This morning I had physio and she has "worked her magic" this morning - finding new spots of pain! - I have to go back next week again! ARGH! so close to finishing but so far!

It is achy now but at least I can rest it up!

Not sure about walking tomorrow as I might have a commitment straight after work to go to so will see how it looks tonight! but I did enjoy being back walking yesterday altho my ankle was a bit achy by the time I got home - I think it had had enough!

Off to get my sushi!

10 on Tuesday...............

1. There are now 11 Days to the Dance Champs

2. I made these the other weekend for my bestie

3. I am half way thru making these for me and another set just because I can!

4. My son has permanently stained knees from playing soccer all the time! - I must take a photo and scrapbook about them!

5. My daughters soccer team have finished first in the 13th Grade this year! Well Done to all of them

6. I am hoping to get back into regular walking this week - weather permitting

7. We have a dress rehersal this Saturday in Hamilton for the dance champs!

8. My BFF and I are interested in going to the Rocky Horror Picture Show that is coming to Auckland soon!

9.My Op- Shop Shopping scored me two trousers and one top for a total of $20.00 - To get the trousers altered will cost me $15.00 each!

10. I have begun making up the magnetic buttons for the magnetic boards that I am making for Christmas presents to 8 children!

12 Days to Champs...................

The competition is getting closer!!!

Can't wait!

Today was a better day altho I did not get to walk to work - the weather was terrible at 6.45 when I leave to go to the train so I decided to drive which I am so glad I did as at 7.45 when I am still walking to work the sky went very very dark and the clouds opened up!

I would have been saturated!

Food choices today were great!

Low in points just that way i need it!

I am playing around with the points for the remainder of the week to try and get a loss on the scales after my terrible weekend.
Today is -4
Tues Normal
Wed -4
Thrusday -1
Friday -4
Weigh in Day!

Lets hope tomorrow is all good to walk!

Day 14/112 ARGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The last 24 hours have seen me eating so badly!!!!

And I do not know why!!

It started with a Mighty Angus for lunch yesterday with fries!
Then some chocolate
Then Pizza for dinner with some fries!

Breakfast began great with an egg on toast - then turned with eating the left over icing and some biscuits!!!

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

So I pledge here to you all that I am turning this mess aroung starting now!

Water Water Water
Some excercise
A nice salad for dinner!

Ps My countdown went a bit funny so the titles don't match from yesterday to today!

Day 12/115 Weekly Weigh In

Well this mornings weigh in saw me stay the same!

Phew!!!!!!!!

Last night dinner out was at a turkish restaurant and was very nice but I ate too much pita bread(Bread is a down fall of mine!).
I also had a good chat to my friend who is going to have lap band surgery and she is very excited but what I can't get over is that I have weight heavier than her and her sister who has also had it done.

Oh well!

So I am happy with the result this morning.

But I need to pull finger if I want to hit my target this month!

I will be back walking all next week (weather permitting!) and will be very very good with my points!

I am hoping to head off to the secod hand shop this morning to get a few garments but am not sure yet as there is still soccer for my daughter!

Oh well!

Sending cyber hugs and thoughts to Deb(deminishing Deb on the side bar) at this time with regards to her dad!

She is wonderful and offers me lots of great support and advise thru her lovely comments.

Thanks Deb!

Day 13/114 Finally Friday.........

Well I made it to Friday!!!!

Yesterday my boss gave me a top that she had only worn once and felt its not her.

So I took it home tried it on and loved it! and it fits!!!

So guess what I am wearing once it dries tomorrow!

It is from Suzanne Grae (i think thats the label) and it felt so nice and lightweight on!

She did also say that she is going to be going thru her clothes and might have a few more items so score!!!

Speaking of clothes - i so need new trousers!!! - I have been tripping on my jeans today as they are too big and fall down onto my hips, making the legs to long and then I trip on them!

I think I will try and get to the Salvation Army second hand shop up town and try and find some more - and then new clothes and not alot spent!

Wish me luck!

Day 14/113 Weary and Tired

The end of the week is rolling around fast but not fast enough for me!

I am tired and weary tonight and that has lead to some bad nibbling!

I am off to bed!!!

Day 15/112 Mid Week At Last!

This morning started with another physio appointment and I was hoping that it was the last but no it is not!

She is happy with its progress but wants the joint to have better movement so I am needing to go back and visit again in a weeks time.

I must remember to do all my excercises so that it is getting stronger!

Work wise - busy busy day! - Lots of boring spreadsheets! Argh!

Food choices - awesome!

Now to complete some bookwork in the home office and off to bed!

Day 16/111 Ten on Tuesday

1. My Daughters Soccer Team are at the top of the table for there Division!

2. My son who is eight was asked to trial for the 9th Grade Rep team - Good Luck Little man!

3. My weight loss Journey is still going in the right direction and I am loving it!!!

4. Brown Paper Packages is another great craft blog to check out.

5. Oh to be young again - Check out Miss Shrinkle and all that she gets up to!

6. One of my happy places is to visit my local florist - they have amazing vases and arrangements - ah bliss!

7. Grease the Musical was Awesome!!! - The actor playing Danny replicated his laugh amazingly!

8. I am out to dinner on Friday night with a very good friend. She is heading down the lap band road and I am very interested to hear all about it!

9. My ankle is still going well for dance practise- now to get up to speed!

10. I really wish this rain would go away!!!

Day 17/110 Walking to Work

Yup you read right - I walked to work today (oh and home again!)

My ankle felt a bit stiff to start with but it loosened up and all went well!

Can't wait to try it out again at dance practise.

I have decided to withdraw from one of the competition I had entered on the 4th of September just incase I hurt my ankle so that I am in tip top shape for the team event!

Work was busy today but good.

Food choices have been great and one major thing I am noticing as I am dropping the weight - my pre-menstural symptoms have disappeared - no more sore boobs, not more tired days leading up to it - and a few others I won't mention have disappeared as well!

Weird but good!

Ok better carry on with my chores

Day 18/109 Weekend Recap

Saturday was still wet here in Auckland but soccer was still played!!!

I was lucky enough to stay out of the wet weather as I had arranged for my daughter to be taken to her game - over an hour away! - and my son was taken by his dad!

The kids and I then headed out to my friends house for the afternoon and evening as her and I were off to see Grease the Musical - It was fantastic!

Lots of great songs and the actors were wonderful!

Sunday was a quiet day with dance rehersals in the afternoon going well

My ankle has "turned the corner" and is so much better

Woo hoo!

Day 19/108 Weigh In Time!

Whoop Whoop

I am waving my hands in the air like I just don't care.................

cause I lost:

1 KG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yup you read right another kilo down

Weighing in at 103.6 - whoop whoop

How low can I go!!!!

Not long till under the 100!!!

I can taste it and it tastes good!!!

Day 21/106 & Day 20/107 Work Work Work

Well the paid job is getting in the way of my internet use!
This is not on!!

All good here in the hood!! - Just plodding along - not sure how tomorrows weigh in will go but will take what ever it gives me.

Off to see Grease the musical tomorrow night so am looking forward to that.

I am also hoping to start walking again next week - weather permitting!

Day 22/105 Mid Week Wonderings........

Well this morning saw me driving to work again as the ankle is still tender and I don't have a full step movement (hope that makes sense)
I have decided to take the car for the remainder of the week and then get back into it next week!

I get to spend a bit of time thinking about life and all that it entails for me and this leads me to wondering what it is I am wanting to achieve in my life and whether I will achieve it??

It then leads me onto thinking about my parents - who have both passed away and how much they are missing of my children and how proud they would be of them and accepting of them (whole nother story there with the inlaws!) for who they are!

This then makes me sad and I wonder will I see grandchildren??? will I see them grow and get to spoil them longer than my parents were able to!

I miss them so much each day - just some are harder than others!

Day 23/104 Ten on Tuesday.......

1. My BFF and I are off to see Grease the Musical this weekend - Can't wait

2. My daughter made it into the school cross country team - So Proud!

3. My son is aiming to win his cross country race this year which will make it three years in a row - good luck buddy.

4. My weight this morning was at another all time low! - Loving this!!!

5. I am in the middle of making up a small photo album for my sons soccer coach that will have photos of each of the boys along with a thank you note from them and random photos from the season - I am having trouble getting soccer stickers! (that I like)

6. My favourite subway sandwich at the moment is Roast Chicken on Honey Oat - what is yours??? I need to try another and am not sure what!

7. The practise run through in Hamilton for dance champs went well - and we got to see the dress that we will be wearing! - Not sure if it is good for my body type but oh well!

8. Check out these - a different gift idea - I love this one.

9. I need to learn how to use photoshop so I can do the side by side photos, writting on a photos - help please any suggestions greatly appreciated

10. Another inspiring craft blog is Lemon Tree Creations.

Day 24/103 The week begins again.........

Well Monday morning rolls around way to fast!
Physio this morning and she is happy with how the ankle is going so that is good!

Drove into work today and may do for the remainder of the week so I rest up the ankle - but then if it is feeling better later in the week I will try a walk. As long as this weather improves!

-4 point day today so a yummy tuna salad for lunch and hopefully a lowpoint dinner will be waiting for when I get home!

I have been creating as well and am hoping to finish off a project or two this week!

Helps keep me busy in the evenings so no snacking!

Day 25/102 Weekend Recap

Well the weather this weekend has been CRAP!!!!
Can't put it any other way -sorry!
I ended up watching three different soccer games on Saturday in the RAIN!!!
I must get good mummy points for that!

I then headed to the local amll with my friend and the kids and my daughter spent her birthday vouchers - another lot of good mummy points again I think!


Sundays weather wasn't much better and again I found my self in the rain on Sunday morning watching my son trialling for a club team!

He did well and has made it to the second round!.

I also had dance practise in Hamilton and did not get home till 7pm - TIRED!!!

So a quiet night was had and into bed early!

Day 26/101 Unchartered Waters

Finally made it to the computer!!!

Well weigh in this morning was a magical moment for me!

I lost .800 grams - woo hoo which took my weight to 104.6!!!

I am finally under my weight for my 40th and I do not recall seeing this number on the scales!

So bring on 99.9!!!!! - I will be under 100 so soon - I can taste it and it tastes good!.





Here is a latest photo as well with my new hair colour!



THis one is of a braclet that I purchased from Jen at www.priorfatgirl.com in America - it says:
One bite at a time
One Decision at a time

It worked out to be 15.00 USD including postage and a charity donation but I like it and thats what matters!

Day 27/100 An Overwhelming Feeling.............

I had my second appointment with the physio this morning and she is happyish with my ankle!
It is still quite stiff and I had pain this morning when trying to roll over in bed (I had taken the stapping off last night as requested - it hurt!!!!)
So she has strapped it again so that I can participate in dance practise on Sunday.

I am thinking about going to practise tonight but only if the kids soccer is cancelled - it has been wet here. (and yes she is ok with me going if I want to)

The scales this morning revealed a magic number to me!!!!!! - A number I have not seen in any of my weight loss journeys and I am excited - now to be extra good today and I will be very happy at weigh in tomorrow!

Work is ok - but I am not feeling 100% happy there at the moment!
I am not sure what it is or why I feel this way - I just do!

I am trying to work it all out and decide if it is me or them or a combination of both. - but I need to keep "paranoid Lisa" under wraps - she just complicates things way too much!

A very dear friend is also causing me concern with a few comments she is dropping about different things and this does not help my state of mind! I need to bring it up with her as I do value her friendship and need to clear the air in regards to these comments!

Oh the situations I get myself in!!!

Day 28/99 Healing well.........

My ankle is feeling so much better with the strapping - I am back at the physio tomorrow - but have to get the stapping off tonight!!!! or else she will "rip" it off for me tomorrow!

Jumped on the scales this morning to see how things are progressing and I liked the look of the numbers!

Fingers crossed I can retain the loss and I will be very happy on Saturday morning.

Yummy salad for lunch today and hopefully another yummy healthy meal from hubby tonight!

Busy day so no time for chatting

Catch ya later

Day 29/98 Weary Wednesday

I headed off to the physio yesterday as I have been having extra pains up my calf muscle and thought I may have done some more damage.
Luckily that is not the case but my calf muscle reacting to my "shuffle" and not liking it one bit.

The physio found a couple of "knots" in my muscle and worked them out - OUCH!!!!!!!!

I am now all strapped up and returning on Friday morning to see how it is and get the ok to go to Sunday practise.

It felt so much better this morning so I am sure it is healing a lot better now!

But I am hating not being able to excercise!!! It is affecting my well being and I am starting to feel sorry for myself and medicating with food!!!!!!!

ARGH!!!!!!! - I am not sure what the scales will say this week but I am hoping that I can reverse some of the damage between now and Saturday.

Off to get my colour touched up today and then onto the beautician for my eyes and brows - Oh a day of pampering - just what a woman needs!!!

Day 30/97 Ten on Tuesday.............

1. My sons Soccer Tournament on Sunday went really well - the boys did a great job and he managed to score two goals and also played goalie which he rocked at!

2. My daughter has decided that she wants to save for a laptop! - She had no source of income except birthdays and Christmas and then she has no guaranteed to get money then! It may take her a while!

3. My ankle is not much better - I am off to the physio today!

4. Check out this craft blog - she has tutorials to help you with your blog and how to utilise all the functions!

5. Another great blog is this one. Sign up for the daily emails and get you own daily dose of awesomeness

6. I am loving Tuna sushi at the moment, as you know it is my meal of choice on a Wednesday.

7. We have started extra dance training on a Friday night - I have managed to get to one (prior to hurting my ankle) and I need to get to more!

8. Woo hoo I am off to the hairdressers tomorrow to get my colour touched up!

9. I was nicely surprised with my measurements and how I am 16cm down in total!

10. Caluzzis was a hoot!!! - Those Drag queens are great and so tall - I only came up to the boob of one! - Great entertainment and a fabulous meal!