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SONGBUDDHA   30,010
30,000-39,999 SparkPoints
SONGBUDDHA's Recent Blog Entries

Let's Look Toward the 180s. Seriously.

Wednesday, December 09, 2009

I just read a blog that I LOVED about focusing on being healthy, and losing weight being ONE of the by-products of a healthy life, not the goal. The blog also talked about all of the things that the scale doesn't measure that are so, so much better in my life now. It was great.

I have been doing a fairly good job of being within all my goals, tracking, calories, working out, etc.
And I do not want to focus solely on weight, but on being healthy in a way that is sustainable for me for the long haul.

it's time to see a little bit of progress. Even an itsy, bitsy, teeny, weeny bit.
I have joined the leaving 190s group, and I wonder what to add or do to make it happen.
it's the holidays and I need serious motivation.
my own little mini-me challenge.
It runs December 10 through January 10.

I've been managing 4 days a week working out.
Let's make it 5. I can do it.
Once a week time on SP, blogging or reading other peoples blogs and pages.
Keep tracking.
Food wise I've been OK, but I need to stay serious about measuring and being careful. It's amazing what little things can find their way into my mouth when I'm not.
NO, I said NO desserts (honestly I'm not that big of a fan of desserts anyway, so it's wasted calories for me).

I think those changes alone will have me seeing progress.

I'll let you know.

To Recap:
5 workouts / week
No desserts
Intentional Eating!
One time (not just tracking) on SP per week

Then we'll eval after the month.

Happy Holidays!

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

CASSIES 12/11/2009 10:26PM

    Sounds like a plan!

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VXWALL1942 12/9/2009 3:39PM

    Sounds like a plan. I look forward to seeing results on 1/10 or thereabouts. Good luck! emoticon

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Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Perspective is hard to get. Especially after so many years of not having much.

If you had asked me 2 years ago how I would feel about weighing 198 pounds, I would have said I couldn't imagine it--that it would be mind boggling and wonderful. That even if weighed 198 forever it would be a change I would have taken in a heartbeat compared to the 260 I weighed then.

Flash forward to now.

I have weighed 198 for 2 bloody months (can you hear the ingratitude in my voice?). My lack of gratitude is only seconded by my feelings of self-pity and despising that I haven't moved the scale in 2 months).

Now, granted, I went on vacation and said to myself that if I could just maintain I would be happy. Well, I'm not happy.

That's not true. Most days I am still filled with wonder that I weigh in the 100s. In fact the other day I saw my weight on SP and thought--"oh that's wrong, but many I can't WAIT to weigh 198". I had to laugh at that.

Anyway, mostly I'm just whining. But I just saw right now that my last blog (celebrating my break into the 100s) was written on 9/2/09. It kind of got me down. Despite the fact that I did Turbo Jam today and kicked some serious bootie.
Despite the fact that I'm wearing a shirt that is a LARGE.
Despite the fact that at least several people every day ask me if I'm melting away.
Despite the fact that I feel better than ever.

It just goes to show me that although for years I imagined the smaller me as a different person, the 198 pound me is just the same (for better and for worse). And tonight that me was feeling a little down.

But better now.

Happy Wed. everyone.

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

CITABRIA 11/8/2009 12:08PM

    I know this isn't how you're looking at it, but I'm feeling reassured by the fact that, for 2 months, the 198 lb you has continued to be the same you. All the good and positive things about you are still there. Your friends and family are still there. The things that make your life what it is? They're all still there. Everything hasn't gone away because you broke that 200 lb barrier.

To me, that's a wonderful, wonderful thing to hear.

Now, for you -- a while ago my WW leader told me that she held in the 190s for a long, long time. My impression is that some was a plateau, but some was also her mentally adjusting to being in that new place. She reached deep and was patient with herself and is now ... I'd guess around 130, if that. I hope you're able to find that same patience so you can keep moving onward and downward!

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ROYALETBONE 10/29/2009 11:36PM

    Oh, best beloved- I think that learning to love and accept ourselves AS WE ARE- and know that being AS WE ARE is ok- is one of those things that we just need to keep working at. (Says Mare, who has plateaued for so long that I changed the mailing address... tee hee.)
Yeah- accept ourselves AS WE ARE- so we can keep changing.
Like that.
Over and over.
Great blog... holding you in the joyous light.

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198 is the most beautiful number I've ever seen

Wednesday, September 02, 2009

When I started all of this I would sit and read posts of people who had been successful. 30 pounds and counting, 40 pounds and counting, 100 pounds and counting.
I would just shake my head, hopeful but doubtful.

The doubts have crept away slowly as the confidence built, and I had my own milestones. 10% of my body weight lost felt good. 25% done felt great. 50% was magical.

But nothing I've ever experienced feels like this--crossing from 200 to the 100s has blown my mind. I could say the things that are true--I haven't weighed this since jr. high, that I feel better than ever, that I'm still a long way from the 'end'.

but what I really want to say is this.

i really, really didn't think i could come this far. i'm shocked at my own strength, and even more shocked that I believe in my own strength.
and for the first time ever, i feel almost normal.
for the first time ever, i can stand in the check out line or anywhere in public and not wonder about how freakish i look to everyone around me. for the first time ever i feel almost like i'm not on the outside of things; like i don't have to hide as much, or work so hard.

the only way i can say it is that i almost feel normal.

and it's good.
normal is good.

i still have a ways to go, but this feels so monumental to me.
i just think of myself at every single age i've ever been, wishing so hard that this would come true, but unable to make it happen.
i weep for all of those women, all of those me's who wanted this so badly.

and i thank god that another birthday won't come when i think to myself, well maybe this year.

when i turn 40 i will be at my goal weight.

i want to shout to myself at 20 and 30 that there is hope.

and i would not have done this, could not have, without SP. SP has been the difference.
tracking has been vital, but so has reading the stories of so many of the people on this site. to be surrounded by success. to be surrounded by positivity.
It changes you, you know?

I can't believe it.
I won't go back.
This is too good. Too sweet.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

CITABRIA 9/20/2009 8:08PM

    Wooooo! Sorry it's taken me to catch up with your blog and congratulate you on this!

I hope you're still revelling in this victory, and hope to join you in Onederland soon. :)

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ROYALETBONE 9/11/2009 12:27AM

    Woot, toot, hooray!

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LOVESLIFE48 9/3/2009 8:22AM

    Keep up the good work! I can't wait to leave the 200's. Seems like I never will!!

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CMORISAK 9/3/2009 6:58AM

    GREAT JOB!!! WAY TO GO!!! KEEP UP THE AWESOME WORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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ASANTOSO 9/3/2009 1:45AM

    What an inspiration!! Good on you!!

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    This is one of the most beautiful things I have ever read. Thank you thank you thank you for sharing such an exciting and awesome thing!!! You ROCK!

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    Wow! That is amazing. You should be so proud of yourself! I'm trying to picture myself at that stage. You must find it hard to sit still! I'd want the world to know! Thanks for sharing a part of you.

emoticon emoticon emoticon

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SEXYNAILS 9/2/2009 6:53PM

  Great job keep up the good work you are on your way. emoticon

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TRACYEH53 9/2/2009 6:49PM

    YOu should be so proud of yourself! Keep up the good work and you will be at your goal weight in no time! emoticon

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CHUCKLES0719 9/2/2009 6:46PM

    WOW THAT IS EXCITING! You are an inspiration! emoticon

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CATIEBELLE 9/2/2009 6:43PM

    Congratulations with your milestone and losing the weight. It is great to know that with Spark the feeling can last forever.

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SAVINGHANNAH 9/2/2009 6:31PM

    Way 2 Go!!

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Plateau 101

Saturday, August 22, 2009

After 17 months on SP with things going fairly well overall, I may have hit a plateau. I'm not really sure, but I am realizing that since June not much has happened.

Now there are good reasons for this that I won't bore you with, so I am tempted to say it's not a plateau. But does the label really matter? I think not.

I read a lot about others' experiences with plateaus here on SP, and here is what I learned and have been incorporating with some success (some success? I am 0.6 pounds away from 199 pounds! even to be this close is amazing to me. I think jr. high was the last time I was in the 100s).

1. dropping the calories doesn't seem like a good idea. That was my first instinct, and in fact what I did. But then I panicked. What if I hit another plateau, then another? Will I eventually be eating 500 calories a day? I didn't know what to think, which is why SP is so helpful. Lots of other people have already thought through this, and helped me to come up with some sanity, which is that dropping calories unhealthily will not help.

2. Be hard core for 2 weeks. Not crazy, but for 2 weeks eat smack in the middle of my range around 1600 calories a day, and measure everything and NO extras that seem to creep in so easily (little lick of the peanut butter spoon after I measured, few extra nuts, extra si8ps of wine, etc). So for these 2 weeks (one down), be hard core and precise.

3. Vary the workout. This one is hard for me, because I work out with my partner. We've been exclusively doing Turbo Jam for several months, and everything I read suggests that variety is not only the spice of life, but necessary to keep your body rising to the challenge. We also walk and jog some, but it seems like we need to do more of that each week.

4. Weight Training. Enough said. This has always been a weak (no pun intended) area for me.

5. Belief, belief, belief. I watched a Star Trek episode last night where the body of one of the characters was taken over by a malevolent being (I know I'm a nerd, you don't need to tell me). From deep within her own taken-over brain, she fought for control and just kept fighting within herself.
Instead of approaching this may-or-may-not-be a plateau in a whining "whaat's wroooooong" kind of way, I will reach deep in myself and see it as a battle. One I will win. One in which strength of character and belief are necessary.

6. Remember that 150 is my goal, but my life is now, and not to get too focused on the outcome, but that I am healthier now that I EVER have been. And that is what we're going for here. Remember

So that is the wisdom I've gained from all of the SP members who have traveled there before me. There are more words of wisdom, but these are the ones that seem particular to my journey.

In belief, strength, and precision,

did I mention that I'm freaking 0.6 pounds from 199??????

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

CASSIES 12/14/2009 11:19PM

    Thanks for putting so eloquently exactly how I feel.

aaaaaay for NORMAL! I am tasing what that feels like and it is sweet.

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PLATINUM755 8/22/2009 4:53PM

    Are Trekkers nerds?...If so, then I'm one! too emoticonso emoticonfellow Trekkie... emoticonon a job well done...and you summed up the battle correctly, it really is an internal battle, but sound like you're equip to handle it!

Changing up my workout has always helped me when I hit a plateau (my new plan changes every 4 weeks)...while I've never used Turbo Jam, it's working for you and I can understand not wanting to change to drastically, however, took a quick look at the program and I like the look of the sculpting gloves and, just a suggestion, perhaps along with light ankle weights may be all the change you need to make your workout more intense and get you where you want to go.

PS...you PS just made me emoticon emoticon emoticon

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ROYALETBONE 8/22/2009 12:04PM

    What a smart, simple, Spark laden plan you have devised. Perfect!
I'm down 106, 44 to go... and I know that I'm NOT doing what you are doing. I've been eating too much, going to parties, having fun, playing away... there are a few minutes where I think I need to get to work, but then I say, nah... and stay in my hiatus from losing. I should save this blog for me to look at again when I'm ready to tackle the last pounds. You've got it JUST RIGHT.
Woot, woot!

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FITGRL124 8/22/2009 11:32AM

    It's okay that you've hit a plateau and you will overcome it. I PROMISE!!! I was in a plateau for about 8 weeks and last week I finally bursted through and since then have lost 4.5lbs. You will make this happen. Just keep plugging through because one day you'll step on the scale and it will a 1 not a 0.6!!!

Have a good day and don't worry! :)

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Not off Track (except my negativity)

Sunday, July 19, 2009

How many times do I have to relearn that my negative voice is not accurate?

I was feeling really down today because I'd been off track, eating over my calorie range from tuesday until today. It made me want to rethink everything, b/c it feels like i'm starting to get one good week, then one bad week.

But Jenny and I went over the past week. I didn't track since tues, which led to 2 things:

1. I ate not a huge amount but in an uncontrolled way on friday, in a big way b/c not tracking causes my brain and heart to not be 'in the game', and it's easier to go off on my own.

2. I actually only went over my calorie range twice when we replayed every day, yet I had this strong sense of being out of control for 5 days. Not tracking makes me go immediately to failure thinking. How many times do I have to relearn this?

So back to tracking, and back to positive-ness.
I'm such an outgoing, positive person most of the time. That voice is powerful, though.

Hope everyone is having a good Sunday!

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

ROYALETBONE 7/20/2009 12:01AM

    How I love Spark... it gives us a place to put down these thoughts, and remember what works, and celebrate coming back to focus.
Woot, woot!
You are sooooooo doing this! This is a LIFESTYLE---- not a quick release button. So, slipping, getting back on track practically right away.... uff da, that rocks!

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CHICUELAGIRL 7/19/2009 3:33PM

    I feel the same way. It's been less than 2 weeks since that I decided to try to lose weight once and for all. I will recommend that you try to stay focus and motivated. It sounds like you easily get off track b/c of distraction. I know exactly what you're going through. For me the worst time are the weekends. I tend to eat like crazy. So, I decided to be good at least one day whether that be Saturday or Sunday. Then get back in control the following day. Yes, you'll have days where you go over your calories and eat things you are not suppose to. But knowing that you can always get back up after falling is BEST thing ever. Keep reminding yourself what your weaknesses are and avoid those pitfalls as much as you can, and even if you fall for them, GET back in your feet and try once more. Don't give up! emoticon

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TAMIKLUCAS   10,396
10,000-14,999 SparkPoints
TAMIKLUCAS's Recent Blog Entries

30 years, 30 pounds, 30 days - My Birthday!

Tuesday, March 01, 2011

30 30 30. That's the number for the day. Today I turn 30 years old. I set a goal months ago to weigh less than 150 pounds by the time I turn 30, and it was only a few weeks ago that I realized this would equal 30 pounds lost by my 30th birthday. Then I started P90X on Feb. 1st with my Stretch & Pray group at my church, and Itoday marks my 29th day (almost 30!)

So here's my stats:

Age: 30 years
Weight: 151 pounds
Weight Lost: 29 pounds
Days complete on P90X: 29 Days
Days without pop: 30 Days!

Highest jean size: 15/16
Current jean size: 10/11? - (Haven't tried on new jeans yet)

So thats 30 years, 29 pounds and 29 days. I'll consider that close enough!

Other accomplishments & positives:
Healthy eating! I eat at least 3 servings of fruits & veggies each day, most days I have 5.
My kids are eating more fruits & veggies, too!
Increased motivation and sense of accomplishment!
I bought a pair of Medium workout pants!
I need to buy a smaller sports bra!
People I know keep commenting on how good I look!
My husband is proud of my accomlishments!
I helped inspire & implement a Christian workout group at my church!
Thanks to Dave Ramsey, we are debt free (other than mortgage) and have a 6-month emergency fund! NO CREDIT CARDS!!

Goals for the upcoming year:
Learn to Simplify or lives
Begin running
Complte P90X
Run a mile in under minutes
Fina balance to get more time for myself
Increase reading tme with kids

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

CHERYLE51 3/2/2011 5:22PM

    Love Dave Ramsey. Miss his show. Way to go Congratulations! Happy Birthday. I love it when the numbers are just right. emoticon

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MOMFAN 3/2/2011 12:49AM

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PENNI68 3/1/2011 9:13AM

    Way to go!! Good for you and Happy Birthday!

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PEACE_ 3/1/2011 8:59AM

    Awesome! Congratulations on your many accomplishments!

And Happy Birthday to YOU emoticon

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Healthy Valentine's Day gifts

Friday, February 11, 2011

This year for Valentine's Day we are giving gifts to our parents from our kids. I ordered Leslie Sansone's Walk with Faith book and DVD for my mom and my in-laws. I'll also be giving them a small basket of heart healthy foods, hopefully most of them will be red.

My Dad passed away two years ago and it was devastating for my entire family. My father was diagnosed with lung cancer and only lived for 2 weeks after that. 6 weeks later, my husband deployed to the Middle East for a year. I'm not here to complaining, just to tell you all that those experiences changed my life.

What does this have to do with Valentine's Day? EVERYTHING! This is a day to celebrate LOVE. I love my family more than anything on this earth, and I want my family to live long, happy, healthy lives! I don't want my children to watch their grandparents suffer as they grow older and be limited in what they can do because of their fitness ability. I am so blessed that my children have 3 wonderful grandparents who truly LOVE their grandchildren. Now it's my turn to give back to them by encouraging them to make healthy choices so that they can enjoy their grandchildren for YEARS and YEARS to come!

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

DR1939 2/11/2011 9:56AM

    emoticon As a grandparent I find this very loving.

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TAMIKLUCAS 2/11/2011 9:36AM

    Thanks! I am envious of anyone who has farmer's markets nearby & year round!

I forgot to mention that I am also making dinner for the grandparents. Here's my menu plan, so far:

Dijon Salmon
Fresh Salad
wild rice blend

Fresh fruit parfaits

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JBJAKUBEK 2/11/2011 9:07AM

    I think a healthy Valentine's Day is a great idea. I think I'll take your lead. I'm thinking of a morning trip to the Farmer's market for fresh local food, followed by a special homecooked meal. Definitely better than all that candy that usually surrounds this holiday. Hope you have a great Valentine's Day. emoticon

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Focusing on remaining positive as I push towards my goal

Wednesday, February 09, 2011

My big goal: To weigh less than 150 pounds by the time I turn 30. I've been set on this goal for so long, but now I'm not sure if it will be possible to reach that (in a healthy way). My deadline is March 1st, so that's only 20 days away. As of my weigh-in this morning, I have 5.5 pounds left to lose.
I've made some changes in February that I thought would make reaching my goal weight easier:
*I've cut out all pop! - A huge deal for me, I never thought I'd accomplish this in my LIFE!
*I began P90X on Feb. 1st and have successfully completed all the workouts so far! I even threw in some extra elliptical time last night.
* The way I eat is so much healthier. I'm really limiting processed foods.
* No more fast foods, deep fried, junk.
*No cookies, candies, crappy empty calories. When my sweet tooth strikes, I choose a cup of tea, a peice of sugar-free gum, light yogurt or some fruit

So...lots of positive changes. I'm just growing very impatient waiting for the scale to show it.

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

THENEWCINDY 2/9/2011 8:47AM

    even if you dont get to your goal you are stronger and better than you were before

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January Recap

Wednesday, February 02, 2011

January began my refocus on my health. I will turn 30 on March first and I am determined to weigh less than 150 lbs by then. I started out the month at 161 and currently weigh 155.8. That's a weight loss of 6 pounds!

I have exercised 26 of 31 days in January!

I have drastically increased my fruits & veggies and decreased sweets, pop, and carbs.

I am focusing on including superfoods in my diet.

Now it's February and I have started P90X!

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

MOMFAN 2/5/2011 11:07PM

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SCHNEBL 2/2/2011 3:57PM

    Good for you!!! Keep at it...your momentum will carry you to your goal weight.

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P90X & Church

Friday, January 28, 2011

P90X & Church. Not usually 2 things that go together. Well, my church has been focusing on Positive Deviance. We have started a Stretch & Pray group that meets twice a week to work out. (I'll go into more detail about that later.) Our new idea for stretch & pray is to begin the P90X program. As of now we are planning to start on Feb. 1st. I don't know much about the program yet, especially the nutrition portion, but I'm going to learn!
Wow, I can't believe I'm going to do this. Holy Cow!

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Sunday, November 22, 2009

I have finally reached the point that I can no longer stand to keep in the 160's with my weight. I can't seen to get past that 160 mark over the last couple of years. I have been doing a challenge with some wonderful women in my church and it has been great, but for some reason I am not been totally motivated. Not that I haven't been trying...I have started out really well on board doing what I was supposed to do...then comes the fizzle that always comes. I love to start things I just hate to finish things....it is total lack of discipline in my life. Why do I do that? I am going to ponder that for awhile and get back here to blog about it. I know it is a roadblock in my life and I need to overcome that roadblock.

I did have a small victory yesterday...I walked 2.7 miles with my hubby and it felt great!!! Now, I just need to stick with it. Today, my back hurts so bad I had to put my tens unit on and lay down....I am hopeful tomorrow will be a better day.

I need to recommit to a healthier lifestyle period. My body just isn't what it used to be...darn it anyway. But I know with God's help i can make the changes that needs to be made in order to feel better, look better and serve Him better.

God Bless!
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

TLB1630 11/23/2009 12:23AM

    Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own:" 1 Corinthians 6:19

Hi Tammy,

Does that sound a bit familiar?? This is the Scripture that I keep in the back of my head when combating negative emoticon unhealthy choices.

I especially enjoyed reading of you're being "RECOMMITTED"! This is something I, myself would like to emoticon ~ daily!

May GOD bless you in HIS many glorious ways. emoticon

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DEBEDEE 11/22/2009 11:59PM

    Tammy I wish you lived in my community! I bet we would be best of friends, seriously. We are at the same place in life, with some very same issues. You inspired me today with setting your fitness Bucket List on Christian Women Putting God First! And...by re-committing to fitness! Great job! Your friend from W. Washington State. - Deb

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SHERREMAC 11/22/2009 7:38PM

    You can do it!

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15,000-19,999 SparkPoints
January Vlog

Monday, January 31, 2011

Randomness, as per usual. I discuss my best friend's upcoming wedding, the triumphant of wearing smaller clothes, and my fears about skin removal.
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

CAREGIRL1 2/7/2011 10:13AM

    Thanks for the blog. Have fun at the wedding.

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KLASSIE 2/6/2011 8:48PM

    Congratulations on your weight loss and for being selected as maid of honor. Just listening to your vlog leads me to believe that you'll be awesome. You're already being supportive to your friend and that's much of what maids of honor are. I hear you about the loose skin, but consider strength and weight training as a first alternative. It's the most natural way and you'll have less to worry about scars or doctor error. Keep up the good work and hope February is as successful as January was for you.

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RAINBOWMF 2/6/2011 7:54PM

    emoticon emoticon emoticon thanks for sharing

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BELLALUCIA 2/6/2011 5:37PM

    You rock!

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BARBARAROSE54 2/6/2011 4:09PM

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LOLAJO54 2/6/2011 3:34PM

    are you doing strength everyday... you should... each day do a different part of your body..
good luck with surgery ... but you should not need it for wings lol we all have that and you can get rid of that with lots of arm and leg strengths...now your tummy think that will be necessary ..

loved your real time blog

do not stop do not give up..

sparker Jo

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NEW-CAZ 2/5/2011 6:10AM

    Have fun in Vegas and enjoy the weddings, you'll be great as a brisesmaid. I think it's great that the celebrations are continuing into the honeymoon- neat idea!
Love that you're so supportive of you friend.

You are making amazing strides so you should be so proud of yourself!

Have a word with Sparker POOKIE who will be having surgery to remove excess skin here in the UK very soon- I'm sure you can support each other. Good luck with it

Have a great weekend emoticon emoticon

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HONEYMUFFIN1923 2/2/2011 9:58AM

    Have fun in Vegas. I don't have answers for the extra skin removal. I'm kind of worried about that myself. I'm praying my Hubby is right and with enough water and losing slooowly it will take care of itself. But each situation is different. Good luck!! YOU ARE DOING AN AMAZING JOB!!!

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    Keep up the good work, you look great and I know the feeling regarding the extra skin I have lost alot of weight 80 something from a 24 to a misses 14 . I need to drop the last 30 and get the extra skin removed right away not looking good around the belly and arms......

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THEAPPLESASS 2/1/2011 7:08AM

  the weddings sound really exciting! especially the honeymoon in vegas! have fun!

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    SARSPARKS25   31,734
30,000-39,999 SparkPoints
Staying Positive

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Sometimes I just need to scream. I need to rant and rave and vent about things just to get them out and then it is like a weight lifted off my shoulders. I firmly believe that letting things out is one of the best ways to stay positive. Sure, maybe during my vent I seem completely insane with negativity or "feeling sorry for myself", but think about it this way. I am only human...if I don't get those things out, then they will remain inside me and never go away! It is like throwing out the trash. Once it is full, if you don't get it out then it starts to completely stink up the house and that is ALL you can think about is that nasty trash!

I have to stay positive because no one else will do it for me. I have not been working out. My eating habits have been horrible. I am actually surprised I have NOT gained any of the weight back that I lost. However, my intentions are good to get back on track. I know what has been holding me back. I have been insanely busy lately, mostly because I have been picking up overtime at work for the past month. I have decided that once November is over, I will not pick up anymore OT this year. I want to instead work on my personal goals. Get back to eating healthy, working out daily...I need those to become habits that I cannot stop! I also want to have free time to enjoy my life. Spend time with family and friends, go to the movies, spend time on Spark and read again. I miss reading so much!

These are my goals and I am slowly but surely going to make them my reality. I have a very short work week coming up with only Monday and Tuesday so I think I can have some time to myself to really get a plan going. Right now I have a horrible cold. I am on meds for a ear infection. I can't breathe I am so congested and my neck is in so much pain that sleeping has really become difficult for me. I need to shake this! I will shake this and then get healthier and happier! :)
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

JOIE501 11/28/2011 10:15AM

    Now is a perfect time to get back on track....!! You can do it! =)

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    TORIAMAE   25,310
25,000-29,999 SparkPoints
Today's blessings

Thursday, March 08, 2012

I had a job interview today. It would be a big change if I go with it...but it sounds ideal, like something I would love and while it would likely mean leaving my current job eventually, I am liking the sound of it.

My interview was via skype, which meant looking at myself through the camera of my computer. And I noticed my face is looking thinner. And when I say that, what I mean is that I look more like myself and less like the bloated version of myself that I'd turned into.

To test skype for my job interview, I chatted with my very BFF...who has been undergoing some challenging times with PTSD after an accident with a drunk driver.

She said: "the worst part is that I haven't felt like myself." And she shared with me how God has blessed her in her adversity to become a more compassionate person and that she is growing through her trials.

And I wished I could be there to hug her, because I've been going through the same thing for the past few years. And seeing myself in the skype camera...feeling my body on the treadmill and waking up in the morning...singing in the choir at church...praying prayers that don't bounce off the ceiling....all of that makes me feel like me. It connects me with the person I am who I'd somehow lost track of.

And so I see another purpose to the pain of these years: I am able to stand a few steps ahead of my very dearest friend and promise her that she will get herself back. That God will restore that to her. And that I know because I have been there and seen it happen to me.
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

TORIAMAE 3/8/2012 8:10PM

    The interview went great! It would be an amazing opportunity and likely start part time at first, transitioning to full time over the course of several months. It's been an amazing couple of months...feeling like God is leading me by the hand in so many ways!

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LOTUSFLOWER 3/8/2012 3:18PM

    This is a beautiful blog! I love how you said that God can redeem anything, and "praying prayers that don't bounce off the ceiling", I love that. How did the interview go?

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    CATBEFIT   6,492
5,500-6,999 SparkPoints
Working to Get my Groove Back

Friday, October 19, 2012

It has been a tough two weeks -- emotionally and physically.

On the minus side, between travel, family, and returning to work extra hours to catch up for being gone, and not sleeping decently, I have pretty much only exercised three days out of the last two weeks. And not once doing any ST at the gym Sigh. And I stopped tracking food -- mainly because I just didn't have the energy to focus on my program in any way, shape or form. Yeah, and there was comfort food involved too . . .

So my lofty goals for October --- Like a flash in the pan! Poof!

On the plus side, I didn't go back the the 200's (damn close though). I did drag myself out to walk/jog yesterday (wow my cardio capability plummeted in a mere two weeks). And this morning, I wanted to ride my bike -- so that is a good sign. Maybe I can get back in the groove.

I think I need to get myself back to the basics I started with -- and keep it simple for the next couple of weeks. Water --exercise five-six days a week--start tracking my food again. I'm not going to beat up on myself for what I eat for awhile -- I'm just going to try to have a few successes and get my groove back.

And get back to Sparking and connecting and regular life again...

Thanks to everyone that left kind comments or goodies for me. It helped!

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

SAINTBETH 10/27/2012 11:10AM

    You know what to do. We can do this!

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MADAMES 10/20/2012 7:11PM

    Don't be too hard on yourself...it has been a very rough two weeks for you! I think you are doing an awesome job by just being able to focus and to begin anew. Your exercising will help you with the stress, as CHERIONE suggested. I am so glad to read that were able to exercise today.

Prayers and hugs for you in the loss of your mother!
emoticon emoticon

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CHERIONE 10/20/2012 5:35AM

    Sometimes you just need to step back and take a deep breath before you move on. You have had a tough two weeks. Use exercise to help relieve some of that stress and help you refocus. You can do it. (((Hugs)))

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KATYDID412 10/19/2012 9:43PM

    Glad to see you back!

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    WHATAGRL42   49,495
40,000-49,999 SparkPoints
This is EASY!

Saturday, October 27, 2012

I can do this!

I have always noted that my weight loss success depends on depriving myself of bread. I use the word "bread" as a loose category, as it also includes anything made with white, refined flours/sugars-- crackers, cereals, chips, pastries, baked goods, and so on. Even some gluten free products don't agree with me, if they are made with rice flours and other high carbohydrate ingredients. So in the past, I have always been able to lose weight if I avoid these foods that don't agree with me. But temptation always beckons, and I always, inevitably gain the weight back, when I give into my bread cravings.

Currently, I have struck a balance between deprivation and indulgence. The balance is working, insofar as being able to lose weight and keep it off. I don't feel so deprived, but I am not over-indulging.

The morning is the only time when I might allow myself a "bread cheat". This would be in the form of a whole grain bagel or english muffin, made by the Western Alternative Bagel company. Their "healthy 10" bagels and whole wheat english muffins are a little higher in protein than other brands. The protein inclusion seems to offset the amt. of carbs from flour and my glucose levels are stable after one of these treats, I have noticed (per my glucometer).

I treat myself to a protein-rich snack every 2 to 3 hours, so that I can satisify that noshing part of my personality that always seems to want to eat, and so that I am never getting to the point of feeling "starving". This also helps to keep my BG levels stable. I like zone bars (I look for protein/carb ratios that are nearly even), and QUEST bars, which I found online. I also find these soy protein bars from a store in my town that sells low carb products.

Now that the weather is cooling, Lunch is usually a soup (warm, satisfying, and filling, and loaded with veggies) that I either make homemade or buy, and is higher in protein and lower in carbs. I add a couple oz of tuna, chicken or fish on the side, to add protein. In the hotter months, I packed homemade salads with a 2 to 3 oz protein addition.

An afternoon snack is usually a protein shake, beef or turkey jerkey, or piece of fruit with a lowfat cheese or peanut/almond butter.

Dinner is any typical meal that isn't loaded with carbohydrate, especially from wheat. Pasta has been replaced by these AWESOME noodles I found called MIRACLE NOODLES. They take on the flavor of whatever you cook them in/with. I can make spaghetti and meatballs, for example, substituting miracle noodles for the pasta, and making my own marinara sauce and homemade, lean ground turkey or bison meatballs. Bread crumbs I substitute with ground oats, or crumbs made from spelt bread. Usually though, it's just a meat and a vegetable. If I make potatoes or rice, I only allow myself a very tiny "taste" portion. Just enough to satisfy, but not enough to send my BG levels rising and my insulin pumping out of control.

Dessert? Very DARK chocolate (the darkest I can find), organic fair trade, and maybe a small pour of my favorite accompanying wine.

It all comes out to be anywhere from 800 to 1300 calories a day.
Works for me. I'm not starving myself. The weight is coming off. My body comp (done by my PT) shows it's fat, not muscle. The higher consumption of protein prevents muscle wasting, something I experienced in the months I was bedridden prior to my back surgery.

I am less ambitious with my exercise these days, as I get older and have had major surgery on my spine. Walking, yoga, stationary bike, and swimming in the summer.... these are my staple forms of movement.

So I no longer dis-allow ALL bread and bread products, but I do limit them greatly. I no longer try to "fast" or drastically reduce calories every other or every few days (something I did when I tried to do Johnson's UP day DOWN day approach). I no longer limit meat/protein like I did when I was trying to support Santosh as a vegan, and I no longer feel HUNGRY all the time, thanks to allowing myself to EAT every 2 to 3 hours!

The result is something I can live with. It isn't hard.
I can do this! I got this!
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

XNANNY 11/7/2012 8:22PM

    emoticon emoticon emoticon

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ASPENHUGGER 10/28/2012 5:45PM

    That loose category "Bread" is my downfall also. But I haven't gotten as dedicated as you are. I'm trying now to stay away from white bread (crackers, etc.) and go with multigrains. Learning how to make bread in a bread machine so I can have more control about what goes into it. I'm a person who has t
o do these things gradually -- but I usually get there in the end. Just call me The Tortoise! emoticon

Comment edited on: 10/28/2012 5:46:19 PM

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CARINMARIE 10/28/2012 10:56AM

    It's working! You look fantastic!

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YOBOELI 10/27/2012 2:29PM

    Well when you find what works dtick with it. Keep Pushing Good Luck

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    KPETSCHE   118,980
100,000 or more SparkPoints
Days 468 & 469 - a temptation thwarted!

Friday, February 08, 2013

Yesterday I went for 15 minutes on my gazelle (as I was watching American Idol) and today I went for a 24 minute run/walk. My streak is still going and I've managed to do pretty good with my nutrition. My daughter came home for the weekend from College and wanted to go out to lunch with Grandma and myself so we went to Outback for lunch. My mom and I split a hamburger (they are 7-ounces worth of meat alone!!) and fries and I got a side salad. As it was, my half of the meal and salad with dressing (no cheese) was over 600 calories! Wow!
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

MJREIMERS 2/9/2013 4:00PM

    emoticon with the exercise and splitting of the meal. Just think if you'd at the entire thing, it would have been close to your daily total! Keep it up, but enjoy your daughter while she is home!

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MUSICMOMOF2 2/9/2013 7:57AM

    Sounds like a success to me! Have a great weekend!

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JESSIKA_56 2/9/2013 7:52AM

    Great job splitting your meal! very smart.

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MOMSFIVE1028 2/9/2013 12:30AM

    Keep up the great work! I think it's finally starting to warm up here in Nebraska.....finally.

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FEMISLIM 2/8/2013 11:51PM

    You are doing great!

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MIRAGE727 2/8/2013 11:33PM

    Dodge and weave, Kelly, dodge and weave! Stay strong!

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    VENISEW1   120,664
100,000 or more SparkPoints
"Courage is being scared to death and saddling up anyway." - John Wayne

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

This past weekend I had a great time skiing w/my girls at the Blue Hills. Fri-Sat we had a huge snowstorm that dumped between 26-30" snow. Thankfully my dh was home to snowblow the driveway and shovel the walkway. He was so sweet to do the neighbors as well. I am so lucky to have him as a husband. We celebrated Mardi Gras and Valentines day yesterday since we begin lent today. So trying to stay off the sweets and soda as usual and doing good so far. Have a great day and thanks for taking the time to read my little blog.
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

COOP9002 2/13/2013 10:55AM

    Glad you enjoyed some time skiing with your girls. Hope that you and your husband have a special Valentine's Day together.

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LIS193 2/13/2013 10:28AM

    Sounds like a great husband! Good idea celebrating Valentine's Day early so you can concentrate on Lent.

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FIT4MEIN2013 2/13/2013 10:08AM

    What a great blog and hubby. I, too, have been blessed by a wonderful man. Have a blessed Lenten season. emoticon

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SPIRALDOWN 2/13/2013 10:00AM

    Sounds like you have a great man. For lent i have decided to give up Sweets. 6 weeks will be a record for me

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    MEXGAL1   219,326
100,000 or more SparkPoints
Helicobacter Pylori

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

First of all with all the meds I am taking my tummy is calming down. My doctor proactively called me two times yesterday to check on me. She knows my husband is away so she checks with me. I think Mexican women can't believe that someone would stay alone in a big house on the mountain. It's funny, just a culture difference. It's perfectly safe here. Yes some robberies and very occasionally something more severe, but I have never felt unsafe. My gardener, maid and pool guy also know I am alone and they all check in with me and we own the house next door and rent it to friends and they too check in. So I don't feel alone at all....and actually when I am sick I like to be left alone.
Anyway the second time the doctor called she told me she got the results of the biopsy from the endoscopy and that I have a bad infection as well in my stomach. I have the H Pylori and a very high count which is most likely responsible for the gastritis and malabsorption. They want to get things calmed down in the lining of my stomach first but then it will be necessary to go on antibiotics to get rid of it. With the burning and pain I know I must have plenty of "critters" down there having a fiesta! So I think this is my current problem that needs to be addressed but I still believe my hormones are wacko and that is why I have the electrolyte problem. so I am happy that my main doctor is taking responsibility to help me attack both problems. She set up an appointment for me on Friday with a GI doctor. So that means I will have 4 doctors now working to help me figure out what is going on.
The good news is that I feel well enough to walk the dogs and will do so. Then I have to go to the immigration office. So I will get out a bit today.
I will be so happy to have all this medical stuff behind me. And I don't mean to bore all of you with such details but many have asked to be informed. And who knows if someone else out there might not have the same type problems and I can help them out.
Have a terrific day!
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

BUTEAFULL 4/21/2013 3:11PM

    H P that explains a lot and is totally treatable, thank goodness you found the answer at last

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GOANNA2 4/20/2013 5:58AM

    I had that a few years ago and had to have 2 lots of
antiobiotics. Glad to see the doctors are looking after
you and finding answers. I hope you feel better soon.

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NEW-CAZ 4/18/2013 6:52AM

    You must be so relieved something is being done!
Good luck at immigration. emoticon emoticon

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JANIEWWJD 4/18/2013 12:08AM

    At least things are looking better for you now. Take care of yourself and have a nice walk with your doggies. God bless you!!!
emoticon emoticon emoticon

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PMFISH 4/17/2013 6:57PM

    Hopefully the antibiotics will get rid of your stomach fiesta. Glad you got the information and relief.

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CIRANDELLA 4/17/2013 6:44PM

    Oh, Sallie...I'm sorry to learn of the H. pylori infection. It's a notorious cause of ulcers, and your doctor was practicing good medicine by taking a look for the cause of your gastritis. You'll be on the way to healing now. And once the endocrinologist has done his workup, I believe you'll also be able to correct the recurring dehydration problem as well. Hang in there; you have been an excellent patient! emoticon

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DENISEACK 4/17/2013 6:34PM

    My friend just got diagosed with H Pylori just last month. It's been horribly busy on this end and I wish I had seen your blog earlier to possibly give you a heads up. I'll try and get the details from her to let you know what's in store.

Keep smilin'!

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ALEXSGIRL1 4/17/2013 6:23PM

    i am happy you have people checking up on you and happy you now know what is wrong and on your way to be healed. hugs.

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SAM60SUMTHINK 4/17/2013 5:40PM

    Am glad you do share, because we all feel concern! Sounds like you're finally getting to the bottom of all the bouts of problems that have disrupted your life. May you soon be rid of those IV hook-ups that kept recurring!!

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1CRAZYDOG 4/17/2013 4:36PM

    Glad you have so many wonderful people checking in on you! Well, h pylori causes ulcers and those HURT! Hoping that the antibiotic clears that nasty critter up quickly.

Glad you're getting answers.

Hugs and peace.

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MIRAGE727 4/17/2013 3:53PM

    Glad you shared! Wishing you the best, Sallie. Hang in there.

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SLENDERELLA61 4/17/2013 3:40PM

    Sounds like you are really making progress with a diagnosis and feeling well enough to walk the dogs. It isn't boring at all; in fact, it is quite interesting. Primarily I just want you to get well so you can enjoy life in that great slim body you have earned.

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MEADSBAY 4/17/2013 2:24PM

    Our bodies are such delicate wonderfully complex systems!
Hope this latest trick solves the medical mystery that you have going on in your body, Peanut!

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PEGGYO 4/17/2013 1:42PM

    my neighbors daughter just had that too. I had never heard of it before.

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HAWTGRANNY2014 4/17/2013 1:38PM

    hubby just went through the infection thing. It was in his bloodstream. We did the antibiotic infusions at home...a simple thing.
So glad they found out what was wrong and can take care of it so that you can get back to normal. emoticon

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PHATPAT18 4/17/2013 1:32PM

    Hoping the best in the future for a healthy digestive tract.

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GAYEMC 4/17/2013 12:42PM

    So happy the doctors are finally getting to the bottom of your problems, and it doesn't sound too serious (I always hate the word biopsy!). Antibiotics can work wonders. Hope you can enjoy getting outside today.

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LKWQUILTER 4/17/2013 11:25AM

    It sure helps when you know what is going on, you know how to treat it. Hope they finally get it all straightened out and you get to feeling much better. ((HUGS))

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LIS193 4/17/2013 10:33AM

    At least you have a diagnosis now.
Good luck at the immigration office, hope ou won't have to wait too long. We did the fingerprinting in January, got our cards (temporal) 6 weeks later. In 2 years mine becomes a "permanente" and I'll have to change my Jeep over to a mexican plate.

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CALLIECURTIS4 4/17/2013 10:15AM

    Bless you, Sallie and may GOD heal you, soon. emoticon

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KATRINAKAT23 4/17/2013 10:02AM

  Glad that you are being looked after. You must feel relieved that something is being done.

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MSLZZY 4/17/2013 10:01AM

    You certainly have lots going on and I am so glad your doctor is on top of things. Do what is best for you and get back to feeling better. HUGS!

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    SBECKER526   156,669
100,000 or more SparkPoints

Sunday, April 28, 2013

Walking is great. Light chores are going better. Some Tai Chi moves work. Billy Banks stuff is too tough right now.

I am noticing more energy - especially if I sniff Essense of Peppermint. I am taking my naps most afternoons. I did grocery shop today. I got just what I needed and skipped a few things as the cart would be too heavy to push. I will get them another day.

I was just so active prior to surgery. It is hard to be changed so quickly.
I am adjusting to administering insulin in addition to doing Bob's dialysis. I have a set of protocols:
Blood pressure
Blood Sugar

The cleaning surfaces and blocking of the heat duct are next. Then the setup of the dialysis supplies. Priming and checking on the patient and drain line. Last night the drain bag clamp opened. Needless to say the solution was all over the Wagon (red). I cannot lift the bags so I bought a flyer wagon to transport them to the bathroom. I bailed out the wagon, took care of Bob and then got to church.

Hope to post again tomorrow.
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

ASH72461 4/29/2013 4:41AM

  just don't over do it
I won't have thought of the wagon
great idea

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LHLADY517 4/28/2013 10:05PM

    great idea on using the wagon.

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KERRYG155 4/28/2013 9:53PM

    I'm glad the wagon is working for you. Much better to leak in that than on the floor or furniture. Hope you get a good night's sleep.

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    MARGIERUTH2   1,220
1,000-2,499 SparkPoints
Spark People encourages me!

Thursday, November 07, 2013

I am gaining instead of losing. I quit smoking 8 weeks ago and have gained 6 pounds! I loved to eat before but food tastes so much better now. I am snacking when I use to smoke and I can't think of how to stop. It is getting better by degrees. I have cut down on the endless eating and now am only allowing myself 2 snacks a day but my intake at meals has gone up tremendously. I am very happy being a non-smoker and wouldn't go back to it for anything but this weight gain has got to stop and I have to reverse the gaining to losses. while it's hard to work on the quit and diet at the same time I just want to hold my weight at this point and go from here for now. But I know if I don't be careful I could be in for a big weight gain. That's why spark People is so important to me now. I am encouraged by seeing all you Spark people who are doing so well! I know that soon I'll be able to join your ranks and be successful at losing weight again.
  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

BOOKAPHILE 11/7/2013 6:22PM

    Congratulations on quitting smoking!
Tracking is KEY. You won't know where the problem areas are unless you record your intake. Taking a drink of water and a walk before allowing a snack has helped me.
Hang in there. We're your cheering section!

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MEEMOM33 11/7/2013 2:24PM

I had the same problem and refused to light up again. I snacked on crunchy veggies, mostly baby carrots because of the low calories. The trick is to not use dips, sauces, etc. Also, I counted every single thing that went in my mouth. One teaspoon of sugar, a piece of gum,,,everything!!! The other thing that helped me was exercise, just moderate exercise, sometimes up to three times a day I would get on my treadmill or just go for a one mile walk. I'm not sure if any of this will work for you because everybody is different, but it worked for me. I have been under my "smoking weight" by about 10 pounds. Good luck!!!

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    TSS818   6,010
5,500-6,999 SparkPoints
TSS818's Blog Entry Summary View

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LIFE-FAITH's Photo LIFE-FAITH Posts: 7,598
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Edited by: LIFE-FAITH at: 12/16/2012 (10:35)
Dad: BIBLE: Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth

Leader:Loving Our Kidneys
Kidney Failure is the 8th leading cause of death in USA

"Seventy years are given to us! Some may even reach eighty.
But even the best of these years are filled with pain and trouble;soon they disappear, and we are gone."(Psalms 90:10)

You cannot change your life until you change something
that you do every day.
~John C. Maxwell~

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13 Sugar-Free Dessert and Snack Ideas

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Sugar-Free Desserts and Snacks

Written by Melinda Hershey, Health Educator

Put down the ice cream pint! There are better ways to satisfy those pesky sugar cravings. Check out these sweet suggestions for fun, simple desserts and snacks that will leave you feeling satisfied without the sugar crash.

Soft-Serve Banana Ice Cream

Yes, you can make fat-free, sugar-free soft-serve at home! You only need two things: frozen bananas and a food processor. Sweet and simple on its own, you can also top with dark cocoa powder, nuts, or sugar-free caramel sauce before you devour it.

Sugar-Free Blueberry Muffins

These sugar-free muffins make quick, portion-controlled snacks that will bust your sugar craving without wreaking havoc on your waistline. You can easily tweak this simple recipe to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Don't like white flour? Use whole wheat pastry flour instead. Not crazy about blueberries? Substitute chopped apples, raspberries, or blackberries. The sky's the limit!

Microwaved Baked Apples

Apples are delicious raw, but warming them takes the texture and flavor up a notch and makes for a quick and easy comfort food.

Core an apple and put it in a microwave-safe bowl. Stuff the middle with dried fruit and nuts of your choice and pour a few tablespoons of water over the dried fruit to soften it. Dust the apple with cinnamon (and a sprinkle of artificial sweetener, if desired). Microwave on high until the apple is tender, about 5 minutes, and let it stand for 5 additional minutes before digging in.

Dried Fruit

Love gummy, chewy candies like licorice or gummy bears? Satisfy your cravings with dried fruit instead. It's a great way to get in some nutrients while quelling your sweet tooth. Just beware of portion sizes since dried fruit is highly concentrated, it contains more calories per ounce than fresh fruit. Additionally, make sure to select varieties that say "no sugar added" on the label, as many dried fruits are made with added sweeteners.

Faux Frosty

Skip the drive-thru and whip up a faux frosty at home for a satisfying dessert without the sugar crash later on.

Sugar-Free Candy and Gum

Sugar-free candy is a great way to get a taste of the sweetness you crave without the added sugar and calories. Keep a portion-controlled package of sugar-free sweets on hand to satisfy your cravings in a pinch.

Trail Mix

Trail mix is one of the easiest snacks to throw together. Simply mix up your favorite nuts, dried fruits, and sugar-free cereals and store in an airtight container. Try pretzels, nuts and raisins for a sweet and salty combination, or add in some plain shredded wheat for a boost of sugar-free fiber.

Crustless Pumpkin Pie

Love the taste of pumpkin pie but not all the calories? This crustless pumpkin pie recipe is a comforting, sugar-free, and low-fat way to enjoy the health benefits of pumpkin.

Apple Slices with Peanut Butter

A sliced crunchy apple mixed with smooth, creamy peanut butter is always a winning combination. Make sure to choose the natural variety of peanut butter, as conventional brands tend to be filled with hidden sugars. Sprinkle raisins on top for added chewiness!

Mock Kettle Corn

Who doesn't love the classic sweet-and-salty snack combination? Munch on this kettle corn for the crunch and flavor that you crave without all the added sugar and fat.

Luscious Fruit Dip

This dip tastes so decadent that you won't even realize it's sugar-free! It's a great vehicle for fruit, graham crackers, or pretzels. Try experimenting with different flavors of yogurt for even more variety.

Fruit Smoothies

When you make them right, smoothies can feel just as indulgent as milkshakes do--without all the calories. Experiment with your favorite sugar-free yogurts, frozen fruits, fruit juice and/or milks. Most fruit smoothies are so sweet and delicious that they don't even need any added sweetener.

Try this peanut butter-banana smoothie, which is sweetened with honey. To make it completely free of sweeteners, omit the honey and use plain or sugar-free yogurt.

Grilled Strawberry Sandwich

This recipe from Chef Meg makes for a sweet, creamy, and crispy afternoon snack, or a great alternative to sugary stuffed French toast.

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6/25/2012 3:43:45 PM

I use stevia instead of artificial sugar or real sugar. It's completely natural.

6/24/2012 12:55:59 PM

I'd forgotten that baked apples could be so good! I'm off to see if we have any raisins

6/21/2012 10:35:44 AM

Does anyone out there count the sugars in fruit in their daily allowance? I find myself eating lesss fruit than I should, only because if I have used up my amount for the day I don't want to add more. Fresh berries, pineapple and grapes seem so innocent but can they really be bad for you?

6/20/2012 10:47:17 PM

VXWALL1942's SparkPage
Whereas the recipes have a good deal of appeal, it is very important that a diabetic especially limit their fresh fruit because of the natural sugars. Now portion control with only one of these goodies might just cut it.

6/19/2012 7:29:24 PM

While these suggestions may have no added sugar, fruit has natural sugar---so your title is mis-leading.

6/19/2012 2:03:44 PM

lovely idea

6/19/2012 2:03:44 PM

lovely idea

6/19/2012 1:11:17 AM

I agree with DB. But I do have to say that even tho fruit has fiber and antioxidants and a whole host of other amazing stuff that's good for you it does fall under the "in moderation" catagory. So as much as I think I'd LOVE the banana ice cream or the strawberry queso I'd only do one serving as a snack. lol

6/18/2012 10:29:05 PM

Some of these ideas are fantastic, and some of them raise an eyebrow.

I love banana ice cream, but if you're looking for something really decadent, let me one-up it by saying add some avocado or some nut butter. It does raise calories, but it's so good and it's completely natural. I passed up homemade cupcakes at a party today because I would rather have my banana-avocado ice cream with lots of unsweetened cocoa powder mixed in and fresh berries chopped on top.

The ones with all the artificial sweeteners are the ones that make me hesitate. I'm not a fan of that stuff.

I do not understand the attitude that the fruit-based treats here are bad because fruit has sugar in it. Yeah, it has sugar in it, but it also has tons of fiber and doesn't spike insulin the way added sugar and processed desserts do. Besides, with all the vitamins available in fruit, are you really going to eschew fruit just because it has some natural sugar? Fruit is not the enemy --- overprocessing is.

6/18/2012 9:16:49 PM

ELBALL's SparkPage
I also have an intolerance to artificial sweeteners and would love to see more low-sugar or no-added-sugar recipe collections that do not call for artificial sweeteners.

6/18/2012 4:34:35 PM

I'd like to see good desserts with sugar. I can't have artificial sweeteners, and it blows my mind when I find one lurking on an ingredient list. Moderation wins the weight race, as far as I'm concerned!

6/18/2012 3:56:58 PM

I agree with the other folks who do not use artificial sweetners. I do use stevia, however. And bear in mind that dried fruit is very high in sugar and carbohydrates.

6/18/2012 2:53:18 PM

FROSTFOX's SparkPage
Some of these snacks, like dried fruit, are very sugary.

6/18/2012 2:03:19 PM

Thanks for sharing.

6/18/2012 12:06:31 PM

I'll have to take issue with this article being termed "Sugar Free" desserts and snacks. While most of these items are free of ADDED sugar, one is sweetened with honey. Sorry folks, but honey IS sugar!

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When trying to eat healthier, or learning to cook healthier, what helps me keep from thinking of "diet" is presentation. I go through the trouble of setting the table, plating the food and making everything beautiful! It helps remind me that I'm doing something special for myself!

The benefits are obvious, the effort you put into it and the final presentation are mini rewards to yourself. You aren't just getting healthier, eating better, but you're also pampering yourself!
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Originally Posted by happylittlestamper View Post
It is 11.05 Thursday morning, great time of day to sit and chat with the girls over coffee.
Perfect!! We're glad you could join us.
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Old 05-20-2009, 05:05 AM   #287
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I have phone calls I have to make
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Old 09-05-2010, 10:19 PM   #97
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Linda - I know I'm waaaaaaaay late in chiming in, but I never received the pm with your addy. Can you send it my way, pretty please? My ATC's are finished with a week to spare - I think that's a record for me! Woohoo!
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I'm in, I haven't even seen my first one yet but I'm hooked love this idea of sharing the workspace. Since I was spot #1 in my last one I'll take one spot in spots number #2, #3 & #4 I don't care what group they're in.
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Old 08-17-2012, 06:06 PM   #30
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Here is my card for this challenge: Thinking of You Silhouette.
I enjoyed using this technique which is new to me.
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Old 10-06-2012, 03:01 AM   #2
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Sorry, I have no idea, but I'm thinking it wouldn't be too difficult to find a similar font and do it on the computer if you can't track the stamp down. It is CUTE!

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Old 01-30-2013, 08:53 AM   #5
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Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
I'll come to the party,
And you should come, too!!

See you there!
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Old 03-15-2007, 08:44 PM   #35
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Hey! This is cool, I hope I get some time to try it out! Thanks for creating such fun challenges...
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May 7, 2011 in Nation/World

Rising waters prompt Memphis evacuations

Mississippi River tributaries back up
Adrian Sainz Associated Press
Associated Press photo

A tugboat heads under the Harahan Bridge in Memphis, Tenn., next to Tom Lee Park, which is beginning to be flooded by the Mississippi River, on Friday.
(Full-size photo)

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Children played in front yards and neighbors chatted under a cloudless sky Friday in a south Memphis neighborhood, yards away from the rising water of the Nonconnah Creek.

The unforgiving creek has soaked Johnny Harris’ house as the rest of Memphis awaits floodwaters from the Mississippi River. Harris estimated he had more than 3 feet of water in his small, rented house on a low-lying section of Hazelwood Street.

“It’s like an ocean,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Coast Guard closed a stretch of the swollen Mississippi to barge traffic upstream Friday, then reopened it later in the day. Any prolonged closure could cause a backup along the mighty river.

Farther south in Memphis police went door to door, warning thousands of people to leave before they get swamped.

Emergency workers in Memphis handed out bright yellow fliers in English and Spanish that read, “Evacuate!!! Your property is in danger right now.”

Near Nonconnah Creek, Jeanette Twillie and Shirley Woods waited anxiously, fearing the water will reach their homes.

“Hopefully, it don’t come up no more,” Twillie said.

All the way south into the Mississippi Delta, people faced the question of whether to stay or go as high water rolled down the river and backed up along its tributaries, breaking flood records that have stood since the Depression.

Because of levees and other flood defenses built over the years, engineers said it is unlikely any major metropolitan areas will be inundated as the water pushes downstream over the next week or two, but farms, small towns and even some urban areas could see extensive flooding.

“It’s going to be nasty,” said Bob Bea, a civil engineer at the University of California at Berkeley who investigated levee failures in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. How bad it gets depends on how well the flood protection systems have been built and maintained, he said.

More than 4 million people live in 63 counties and parishes adjacent to the Mississippi and Atchafalaya rivers from Cairo, Ill., south to the Gulf of Mexico, down from 4.1 million in 2000, according to a census analysis by the Associated Press.

It’s about twice as many as lived in the region before the 1927 and 1937 floods. In 1920, 2 million people lived in those counties, and in 1930, 2.3 million lived there.

Most of the increased population comes in Memphis, where the county has increased from 223,000 to just under 1 million. Other big population increases were in Ascension, East Baton Rouge and Jefferson parishes in Louisiana, which combined increased by nearly 900,000 people, and DeSoto County, Miss., which increased by 137,000 people.

© Copyright 2011 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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July 20, 2012 in Features

315 Martinis and Tapas - Greenbriar Inn, 315 E. Wallace Ave., Coeur d’Alene: tonight, Bill Bozly (variety), 6:30-9 p.m.; Saturday, Robby French (variety), 6:30-9 p.m.

A Club - 416 W. Sprague Ave.: Saturday, Vicci Martinez (variety), all ages, 7 p.m., $12; Sunday, Mike Pinto, Current Flow, Facedown (original), 7 p.m., $6; Monday, Diego’s Umbrella (original), 7 p.m., $10; Thursday, Mr. Dalo CD Release Party (original), all ages, 7 p.m., $10.

Black Pearl - 2014 N. Pines Road: Wednesday, Echo Elysium (electric soul), 7 p.m.

Bolo’s Bar and Grill - 116 S. Best Road: tonight and Saturday, Radioface (classic rock), 8:45 p.m.; Sunday, Echo Elysium (pop/rock), 3 p.m.

Carlin Bay Resort - 33917 S. Highway 97, Harrison: tonight and Saturday, Sucker Punch (classic rock/new pop), 7 p.m.

Carr’s Corner - 230 S. Washington St.: tonight, The Hague CD release show, with guests Drag Like Pull, Diamond Speedboat (original), 8 p.m., $5.

Chewelah Casino - 2555 Smith Road, Chewelah, Wash.: tonight and Saturday, Fire and Ice (variety duo), 7 p.m.

Coeur d’Alene Casino - 37914 S. Nukwalqw Road, Worley: tonight and Saturday, Riverboat Dave (acoustic variety), 8 p.m.

Coeur d’Alene Resort - 115 S. Second St., Coeur d’Alene: tonight and Saturday, Kosh (acoustic variety), 6 p.m.;

Conkling Marina - 20 W. Jerry Lane, Worley: tonight and Saturday, Simon Sez (classic rock), 6 p.m.

Cougar Crest Tasting Room - 8 N. Post St., Suite 6: July 20, Ken Davis (variety), 6-8 p.m.

Curley’s - 26443 W. Highway 53, Hauser: tonight and Saturday, Phoenix (classic rock), 9 p.m.

Fizzie Mulligan’s - 331 W. Hastings Road: tonight and Saturday, The Cruizers (classic rock), 9 p.m.

Goodtymes Bar and Grill - 9214 E. Mission Ave.: Monday, Bill Bozly (variety), 6 p.m.

Iron Horse Bar and Grill - 407 Sherman Ave., Coeur d’Alene: tonight and Saturday, Phoenix (classic rock), 9 p.m.; Sunday, On Tap (country), 8 p.m.

Mootsy’s - 406 W. Sprague Ave.: today, Coathangers! (original), 10 p.m., $7; Sunday, Shell Corps, The Loss, Mighty Fine (original), 9 p.m., $5; Monday, Belt of Vapor, Sleeping in Gethsemane, True F.O. (original), 10 p.m.

Pend d’Oreille Winery - 220 Cedar St., Sandpoint: tonight, Bridges Home (folk/Celtic), 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Pirate Soul (reggae/island/folk), 5-7 p.m.

Red Lion Inn at the Park - 303 W. North River Drive: tonight, Chris Rieser and Jay Rawley (variety), 5-7:30 p.m.

Rocket Market - 726 E. 43rd Ave.: Saturday, Sidhe (pop/classical/folk/world), 7:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Darin Hildebrand (acoustic/folk/rock), 7:30 p.m.

The Tailgater - 1221 N. Howard St.: tonight and Saturday at 9 p.m., Tuesday at 8 p.m., DJ D (variety/dance/karaoke); Sunday, open mic (variety), 8 p.m., no cover.

Tito’s Italian Grill - 210 E. Sherman Ave., Coeur d’Alene: tonight, Ron Greene (acoustic variety), 6 p.m.

Two Rivers Casino & Resort - 1010 Blake Ave., Building 222, Davenport, Wash.: tonight and Saturday, The Fat Tones (blues/rock), 7 p.m.

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September 12, 2012 in Obituaries

Obituary: Omlid, Marvin Charles “Chuck”

Age 61

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OMLID, Marvin Charles “Chuck”

Chuck passed away on September 2nd with his Melody by his side following a very short and private battle with pancreatic cancer. Chuck was born in Grand Forks, North Dakota on August 2nd, 1951 to Obe Marvin and Colleen Omlid. He was preceded in death by his mother Colleen (in February of this year). He leaves behind his fiancee Melody, his father Marvin, brothers Rod and Dwayne Omlid, sisters Cathy (Dean Hermanson, Tammy (Doug) Barnett, Joni (Lonnie) Johnson. He also leaves behind, his daughters Kristy LeClair, Kelsi Betanzo, and his grandchildren.
Chuck’s love of life, need for fun, and passion for anything aviation will be sorely missed by his loved ones, friends, colleagues, and his coworkers at Burton Construction. He loved his horses and dog Lillie, fishing, boating, duck/goose hunting and four wheeling and especially loved his trips to Kona, Hawaii with Melody
A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church 223 South Hallett St. in Medical Lake, WA on September 29th. at 2 pm.

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April 7, 2013 in Business, City

Frustrated by loitering crowds, building owners turn to technology

By The Spokesman-Review
Dan Pelle photoBuy this photo

Scott Ellsworth, of Phoenix Protective Corp., keeps smokers away from doorways and prevents people from clogging the middle of the sidewalk at the corner of Riverside Avenue and Post Street in downtown Spokane.
(Full-size photo)(All photos)

Take a listen
The Mosquito produces an irritating sound meant to send loiterers packing. Click here to hear what it sounds like.
The Mosquito

What is it? A small speaker that produces a high-frequency sound much like the buzzing of the insect it’s named after.

How it works: When set at 17 kilohertz, the Mosquito can be heard by people 13-25 years old. (At 8 kHz, it can be heard by all ages.) The frequency can reach 80 to 130 feet, depending on the volume setting.

Source: movingsoundtech.com

Young people loitering on downtown Spokane sidewalks have a new foe: the Mosquito.

Several building owners in the downtown core, fed up with swearing, spitting and unruly behavior on public sidewalks, have installed devices that emit a steady, high-pitched squeal that is, generally, audible only to young ears – people 30 and under.

Mosquito speakers are designed to annoy loiterers and coerce them to leave the area. They have been installed on the Symons, Peyton and Washington Trust buildings. The Washington Trust device was installed roughly five years ago, according to Kiemle & Hagood.

It’s a grating sound to ears young enough to hear it. Spike Fulton, a 22-year-old from Loon Lake, said the noise is “a real bother. It makes it hard for me to talk with someone else if we stay right here.”

The devices are part of a multipronged effort by downtown Spokane businesses to counter what they view as an increase in hooliganism and disorderly behavior.

The heightened concern is fueled in part by last fall’s widely publicized closure of a downtown restaurant, Beignets, whose owner blamed its demise on groups of young people loitering on Wall Street. Loiterers blamed for that closure were likely some of the people who regularly gathered at Spokane Transit Authority’s smoking area near the bus plaza. Spokane Transit closed the smoking section in August because of street improvements.

Now, as warmer weather nears, many downtown business owners say they’re concerned about a repeat that could harm their livelihoods.

Julie Katzer, owner of the Brews Bros. Espresso Lounge, said she’s losing customers because of crowds of young people hanging out on the sidewalk, blocking her door.

“It’s a regular topic of conversation with my customers. How they don’t like walking past the (loiterers) on the sidewalk,” Katzer said.

The problems include spitting, loud arguments, brawls, abusive language and panhandling, Katzer said. “Generally, the customers are just not feeling safe,” she said.

Closure of smoking area a catalyst

Katzer said hers and other businesses in the Peyton Building, on Post between Sprague and Riverside, are also being affected by the closing of the STA smoking area one block east, on Wall Street.

The problem eased this past week after Kiemle & Hagood, which manages the Peyton Building, hired security guards to walk the sidewalk and talk to people blocking pedestrians. The guards will work – during daylight hours – another two weeks, said Alison Bantz, Kiemle & Hagood’s Peyton Building manager.

But Katzer and others say they don’t want efforts that simply move the loitering problem from one downtown area to another.

Businesses in the Symons Block, between Sprague Avenue and First Avenue along Howard Street, dealt with sidewalk congestion and unruly gatherings last year after city officials chased off the groups who were disrupting businesses along Wall near Beignets.

Lisa Smith, owner of the Modern Apothecary shop in the Symons at 9 S. Howard, said building managers acted quickly, bringing in more security patrols and installing three of the Mosquito devices on the Symons’ exterior walls.

Even so, Smith is concerned Spokane officials don’t have a plan other than chasing off the street crowd. “As a city, we’re not trying to find activities or options for those kids. We should look at what Seattle is doing, such as providing music and art programs for free.”

Spokane Police Department statistics show that the number of crimes reported downtown has dropped 17 percent in the first three months of this year compared with the same period in 2012, noted Mark Richard, the new leader of the Downtown Spokane Partnership.

Those numbers support Richard’s view that downtown is not crime-prone. But many business district owners believe more aggressive law enforcement is needed to keep the downtown crime rate from growing, he said.

“There’s some anxiety out there, and we’re working on reducing that anxiety,” Richard said.

Susan Carmody, owner of Jigsaw, a fashion and clothing retailer on Main Avenue and Wall, argued that Spokane’s downtown safety problem has been exaggerated, based on her experiences. “We have fabulous security ambassadors here,” she said. “But any downtown area in any city worth its salt always has problematic populations.”

Carmody said civic officials need to pay attention to security concerns, but they should avoid overreacting and calling the problem worse than it is.

Several downtown groups agreed that Mayor David Condon and Spokane police Chief Frank Straub are actively involved in improving public safety, assigning more officers downtown.

Beyond the two patrol officers per shift working in the area a year ago, the department has added three more “neighborhood conditions officers” per morning shift and three more per evening shift.

The goal is not just stopping crime but building a stronger relationship with retail owners, with shoppers and with people visiting downtown, said Capt. Frank Scalise, who oversees those downtown officers.

Of all the antisocial practices that business owners find troublesome, the worst are spitting and smoking near doorways, said Bantz, the manager of the Peyton Building.

It might seem easier to tackle the smoking problem because Washington banned smoking within 25 feet of doorways in 2005. But Richard and others recently realized Spokane police don’t have the authority to cite offenders who smoke within 25 feet of a business or near public spaces. City police officers need a local ordinance that establishes the ability to cite and fine offenders, said Nancy Isserlis, Spokane’s city attorney.

Until that changes, the law only allows the health district to cite businesses that don’t comply. Richard said the City Council will likely approve that change in May.

Richard said he’s also been asked by some downtown property owners to consider buying more of the Mosquito anti-loitering devices, like the ones on the Symons building.

Two other buildings also have that device; one is on the northeast corner of the Washington Trust Bank building at Sprague and Wall; the other is above the entrance to the Peyton Building.

Bantz said she heard about the Mosquito from another property manager. The device emits a steady signal in a pattern ranging from 80 to 130 feet, depending on how the machine is set.

However, the Mosquito isn’t foolproof. Katzer, owner of Brews Bros., said it doesn’t seem to deter young people engaged in loud conversations. And it seems to have no effect on loiterers who wear earbuds, she said.

The devices are also expensive, priced around $1,300 without the added costs of a power transformer, a protective cage and the labor to install the unit.

Richard said he hasn’t been able to research the Mosquito units and respond to those looking to them as an anti-loitering tool.

Chris Mustard, general manager of Moving Sound Tech, the Mosquito’s Canadian distributor, said about 100 of the units have been sold across the U.S. Most are on the East Coast; eight to 10 have been sold in Washington but none in Idaho, he said.

Moving Sound also sells devices that play classical music as an anti-loitering tool, but Mustard said those are far less popular than the Mosquito.

Samuel Crosby, manager of Cougar Crest Winery tasting room in the Peyton Building, said he’s had younger customers complain to him about the Mosquito. They hear it when they leave or enter the tasting room.

“I understand their concern,” he said, “but frankly those younger customers are not our primary target audience.”

Solution will require collective effort

As businesses, law enforcement and downtown advocates search for a solution, they’re meeting regularly to define their goals and find ways to help each other, said Lynnelle Caudill, general manager of the Davenport Hotel Collection.

Caudill said she personally sees one solution: moving the downtown bus plaza, which she said has become a magnet for antisocial behavior.

“I think it should be relocated,” Caudill said.

She said the solution ultimately will require a collective effort.

“We have to do something,” Caudill said. “We’ve worked hard to have good things happening downtown. Now we have to manage it to keep it going.”

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