Week 8 Exercise & Meal Plan

Day 49 - Grrr! Annoyed at Myself!

After all that talk about payoffs and costs on Friday, and then I blew it anyway! Greg and I went out for drinks and dinner on Friday night which wasn't too bad. I ordered mainly the right choices, but I did eat to much. Was a lovely fun night though which ended up with Greg and I back at home quite early, a bit boozed and playing SingStar. Lots of fun!

Then yesterday - of course I was a little hungover and so tired, so I didn't do my SSS. Also told myself I'd done so well this week and my body was so sore that it was probably ok if I didn't do it, and maybe I'd do it in the afternoon. Wrong!! Should have just got up and done it!

Aside from that, the day did start off ok with me getting some work done, then we went to the golf shop and got all excited. Then the second wrong step - we went out for lunch to Ryos, which in itself isn't bad, but we ordered far too much food, and I proceeded to eat it all! It was so good, but I was far to full. The ramen probably wasn't too bad, but didn't need fried chicken or pork bun. I think I was just too hungry to decide well as only had a tiny breakfast and was starving! Need to make sure I eat more frequently so I'm not as tempted.

After lunch we went to play golf, which was so much fun! Can't wait until we get our own clubs and can just go whenever we like. I really enjoyed it, but was SO tired afterwards. We didn't get a cart so walked round the 9 holes. We played ok - some great hits and some crappy ones. At least we both had an awesome first drive off the first tee while everyone was watching! When we got home after a glass of wine at the club house, there was no way I was doing my SSS. We collapsed on the couch and made the third wrong choice - instead of cooking we ordered Indian. And again I ate way too much.

So annoyed at myself! I've undone some of my hard work and the scales are showing it. I was so proud of the number on them on Friday and now it's back up again. Ah well, no use feeling sorry for myself. And in all of that I still made some right choices - I didn't drink last night (except for the single glass at the club house), and we did walk for 2 hours around the golf course. Time to turn this annoyed feeling into determination and JFDI! Going to go do my SSS right now while Greg is still sleeping, and then enjoy my Sunday feeling good that at least my workout is done!

Pay Offs & Costs

One of this week's videos was around payoffs and costs. Michelle asked us 5 questions and asked us to honestly answer them. Then she talked through them. Quite amazing - all common sense, but never really consciously thought it through in quite this way...

1. What is my goal - why did I join?
To lose weight
To look good in a bikini over xmas
To look good standing next to my family
To feel better about myself
To prove I can
To be a fitter and better me
To be able to snowboard in powder snow in Japan next year
To prepare for having babies

2. What is the payoff for me if I achieve my goals?
Look good
Go shopping and fit into clothes
Feel amazing
Be a better and fitter me
Should be easier to get pregnant
Enjoy my life more

3. What is the cost to me in order to achieve my goals?
Say No
Eat responsibly and regularly
Less going out for dinner
Less drinking
Eat smaller portions
Not able to enjoy stuff with Greg and my friends as so much of it is focussed around food
Can't go away to luxury places as don't want the temptation
Get up early to exercise

4. What is my payoff if I don't strive for my goal?
Can eat anything whenever
Can drink whenever
Can go out lots
Can sleep in

5. What is my cost if I don't achieve my goal?
Feel fat and gross
Bad health
Always tired and sluggish
Feeling unhappy with my size
Always feeling like the biggest
Not fit and happy for my family
Early death

Which answers am I most fearful of? Consider questions 3 & 5... These scare me the most!
Costs for #3 are a lot less than #5 - all short term and little nos or decisions
Doing those things in the #3 costs are the "right" way anyway - will help us save money and feel so much better. #5 costs are CRAP!

Consider questions 2 & 4
Payoffs in #2 are SO MUCH BETTER! In #4 they are all short term benefits or fixes that will make me feel good in the short term - inner teen wants! #2 payoff are amazing and are for life!

Imagine how much my life will change when I achieve my goal! I can imagine the lottery - achieving my goal is so much more likely than that!

Consider the short term payoffs (#4) vs the long term costs (#5) - having a treat or going out for dinner, with the cost being feeling fat and gross forever and even early death? Not worth it! However, the short term costs (#3) against the long term payoffs (#2)? Absolutely worth it!

Saying no to the little things in the moment = achieving my goal and being amazing forever!

Day 46 - Down Down in the Loo La Loo Rah

Cooking the beef kebabs - right before the smoke alarm
went off! I thought they were really yummy

This morning's breakfast - oats, milk, berries.
Looks bigger than it is - that's a teaspoon!

Feeling great today! Well, tired, but happy. Weighed myself this morning and I'm in the 83s. Still a long way to go, but it's the lowest I've been since I got back from honeymoon. Is a little strange, as I've been pretty steady between 85 and 87 the past 3 weeks, and this week have suddenly dropped. It feels good, but I haven't really changed much. Been for two runs this week instead of doing the video on Monday, and my attack class yesterday so maybe that has helped? I think I might continue doing the running as I do enjoy it.

Babysat for T&C last night - little girl is so adorable, just walking and it's so cute and funny. Put her to bed for the first time and it was a success, so pretty happy. We set off the smoke alarm cooking dinner and she didn't even stir! Was a little worried so even went up to check on her cos the smoke alarm was so loud!

Had the Middle Eastern Beef Kebabs, and I thought they were really yummy, with the crunchy crisp veges. I really enjoyed it! Also didn't have any wine which I am quietly happy about.

Am feeling pretty tired at the moment. I haven't been sleeping very well - keep waking up around 3:30am. Felt good having a little sleep in this morning. Got up at 7:20 instead of 6 as no workout this morning. Intending to go to body balance at lunch time and then basketball tonight. Hopefully after basketball tonight I will sleep a little better!

Week 7 Weigh In

Starting: 90.4kgs (pre-season: 93kgs)
Current: 84.5kgs

Since last weigh in: -2.9kgs (was 87.4 last week, but forgot to post it!)
Since start: -5.9kgs (including pre-season: -9.2kgs)

Yay! Finally on the move down again. Great result this week! Need to keep it up.

Day 44 - I Love Shockwave!

Chicken Strips w Roasted Cherry Tomatoes,
Beans and Broccoli

Can't believe I almost didn't get up for shockwave this morning. So glad I did, as I love it. Well, it's hard at the time, but it feels so good once it's done. And it always helps when you are good at something - I'm consistently up there with the rowing. In fact, this morning I did 64secs for 350m, which was 9secs faster than everyone else! For the shorter distances I at least equaled the best.

Had a good day at work today to. Lots to do with the changeover of sprint.

Nice healthy dinner tonight, even if a little boring. I actually really enjoyed the crunchiness of the veges with the roasted tomatoes, but Greg thought it a little boring. I think if we do it again he will spice up th chicken a bit. Looks yummy, fresh and bright in the photo at least!

Week Seven Challenge - Celebrate the Positives

This week's challenge is to celebrate the good things in my life. Each day we're to identify and tell someone the worst thing and the best thing that happened each day. I think I will do this with Greg over dinner each night. Will give us another reason to sit at the dining table for dinner, and also spark more and different conversations. I'm looking forward to it!

Thought I might update during the week.

Mon 23 Sept
Today's worst is...
Having to get up and go to work :( I hate Mondays!

Today's best is...
Having lunch in the park - what a beautiful day!

Tues 24 Sept
Today's worst is...
An email from a guy at work I received this morning where I think he's trying to do some of the stuff I want to do. Feel a bit like he wants to take over. Bit frustrating not really knowing exactly what my role is.

And today's best is...
Well, I couldn't exactly decide on one as today was a good day and there are a number of contenders:

1. Getting up and going to Shockwave this morning - could be a worst too as was so hard, but so glad I went!
2. Buying a new sports bra - I've needed one for ages, and I'm actually looking forward to running in it this morning
3. Change over of sprint at work - busy day, but ran enjoyable and I think successful planning meetings

Day 43 - Starting Week 7 Off Right

Running around Berry Island this morning.
What a glorious day!

So tired this morning, and didn't want to get up, but made myself and super glad I did! Went for a run around Berry Island, and then did my sprints - it was really hard, and the sprints made me feel like throwing up. Then had to follow with squats for final blast, then abs. Felt so tired when it was done, but also happy and proud of myself for doing it!

Today at work is proving a bit of a challenge. I have a  busy day, with a couple sessions I have to run, and I just feel like falling asleep! Just had lunch in the sunshine in the park. It is such a beautiful day! Almost fell asleep in the sun, but managed to keep myself awake.

Lunch was a falafel salad - falafels, rocket, mushrooms, cucumber, green capsicum and hummus. So yummy! It's been a great eating day so far as well - had oats and berries for breakfast, and coffee at 10:30. I've got a boiled egg for afternoon tea - not sold on the idea, but I will eat it and see if I like it as a snack. Didn't have much choice this morning, as our cupboards are pretty bare! Got a good list prepared for the supermarket this afternoon though, and looking forward to the beetroot and lentil salad for dinner tonight!

Feel like I'm properly back on track and am looking forward to smashing the next 6 weeks!

Week 7 Exercise & Meal Plan

Day 42 - Hung Over at the Half Way Point!

What a way to end week 6 - hung over as! Had a great night last night out at dinner with the gang and Greg's cousin, then they all ended up back at ours for more drinks followed by singstar. We didn't get to bed until about 5am! Haven't done that in a while and boy am I paying for it today! Spent the whole day on the couch pretty much. Made the wrong decision and ordered pizza, but didn't eat too much (well not as much as normal), and also was mostly good for the rest of the day. Mostly.

So glad I did my SSS yesterday. It was really hard and I can feel my entire body hurting today. Not sure how much of that is from being hung over though - I'm sure it's making it worse!

I did manage to get some work done today too. Not necessarily as much as I should have, but as much as I could handle!

Definitely ready for bed now. So tired! Looking forward to smashing it next week. Just made the menu and exercise plan for this week and am really looking forward to my run in the morning! Going to make a shopping list now so we can go straight after work tomorrow (no way I was going today!), then bed.

I've got 6 weeks to go. I haven't done as well as I wanted to in the first 6, but I can definitely feel changes regardless. My body feels a lot tighter, I'm quite a bit stronger, and my clothes are fitting so much better. Need to put in more effort over the next 6 weeks - I can do this!

Day 41 - SSS

Got up this morning after a rubbish sleep and did my SSS - The Pyramid of Pain! And yes, it hurt! Pyramids of squats, push ups, step ups and triceps, followed up abs. Ouch! So glad I did it though my legs and arms are super tired.

Had yummy baked eggs again for breakfast. Well, not sure if you can call it breakfast as was about midday. Then wandered up to Crows Nest and strolled around with a coffee looking in the shops. Greg bought a record, we tasted some wine and bought some for dinner tonight, and then had pho for lunch. Yum! Wasn't going to have lunch out, but was so nice up there in the sun we decided to do it! Ate a little much, but at least pho is fairly healthy!

We're out for dinner tonight with Greg's cousin somewhere in Chinatown. Should be a fun night, though will need to be careful how much I eat. Feeling much better about being back on track again - need to stick to it! And also make sure that no matter what happens tonight, I get straight back into it tomorrow!

Day 40 - I'm Back & I'm NOT Giving Up!

Got up this morning and did my workout for the first time this week due to being sick, tired and just plain slack. Was hard but good! My arms now feel like they are going to fall off!

Going to make today a good day, and this weekend good too. I've been a little slack since Queenstown, but am pleased to say that this morning I was almost back to the weight I was before I went, which is good. Only a couple days away from half way, and I haven't done as well yet as I had hoped. Need to focus again and be strong. Need to make the right decisions so that after the next 6 weeks I am happy with what I have achieved. I can do this!

Day 39 - We're in the Semis!

Our team played an awesome game of basketball tonight and we're through to the semis - yay! Didn't even think we'd make the playoffs so I'm happy with that!

Had a pretty good day all round really. Spent some time researching both Austria and Japan. Also had a good talk with Greg and decided that Austria is probably off the cards as will be too expensive to go for the 4 months we want. But Japan is likely a go! The last big trip before we start trying for a baby. Exciting as I love planning holidays!

Looking forward to getting up in the morning and doing my workout as I'm feeling so much better today and hopefully will be even more so tomorrow.

Day 38 - Sick

Working from home today as I'm still a bit sick. Nothing too major, just a head cold making me feel miserable. Been a pretty lazy day. Had planned to go to the gym this morning, but felt too crap to get out of bed. At least I ate fairly well according to plan. Had one extra slice of bread with cheese, but otherwise was a good day.

So tired - it's only 8:30 but I'm shattered. Going to make my lunch and get sorted for tomorrow then bed. Be interesting to see whether I'm any lighter in the morning for eating well, even if I didn't exercise.

One other thing I can feel good about - managed my 50 push ups this morning! 100 down, and only 200 to go!

Week Six Challenge - Drop & Give Me 300

This week's challenge is 300 push ups. Am starting a little late considering it's already Tuesday evening, so will need to stay focused to get this done by the end of the week. Minimum 50 per day! Also going to be a bit harder than the wall sits and as I don't fancy doing these in the work bathroom...

Decided I will split these into normal and triceps push ups as triceps is one area I want to focus on, and not so much chest.

• 17/9 6pm: 25 normal + 25 triceps (triceps definitely harder!)
• 18/9 8am: 25 of each
• 18/9 9pm: 25 of each - did normal ones pretty easily with no breaks - triceps so much harder! already half way through :)
• 19/9 10pm: 25 of each - my arms are going to fall off!
• 21/9 11am: 25 of each (during SSS warmup)
• 22/9 10pm: 25 of each - jeepers that was hard, but I did it! 300 push ups in a week! Go me!!

Done: 300

Left: 0

Day 37 - Flexing my Will Power Muscle

Oops... missed a few days. No excuse except busy and so tired!

Had a fantastic last couple days in Queenstown. Well, fantastic fun wise, but not so great eating wise! Friday night we had a relaxed dinner at our accommodation. Was lovely but I ate FAR too much nibbles. I think I just need to cut out nibbles all together, and just ignore any that are provided, as I can never stop!

Saturday we went up Coronet again, and I'm happy to say once again I had a great day, and I now really like Coronet! The snow was fabulous for this time of the year, and I can see how amazing it would be if there was more snow. Was so exhausted at the end of the day. Could really feel my muscles and felt like I had snowboarded hard!

Was planning on doing my SSS on Sunday, but was still exhausted and just could not make myself do anything! Was even a bit grouchy with my niece and nephew, poor little things! They just wanted attention and to play. Luckily Greg was amazing with them. Sunday afternoon we finally got to play our round of golf, and although I was in a pretty average mood, we actually had loads of fun, and I didn't disgrace myself too badly. It definitely helped we had a couple drinks on the way round! After golf we had a lovely spa and then out to dinner at the Bunker with my sis and her husband. Was great food, but again ate too much. Almost like I totally gave up.

Woke up early on Monday morning to catch our flight home feeling terrible. Yep - I have Greg's cold. Slept most of the way home on the plane, and then hardly moved from the couch except to eat. So slack!

Got on the scales this morning, and I've put on over 2kgs in the week away. Bit disappointed in myself as I was doing so well I think in the first half, but then just gave up. So stupid. I did ok on the exercise front, with the couple days of hard boarding, and also 2 runs and 2 workouts. Just the eating did me in. Again!

Went to work this morning, but came home at lunch as still feeling lousy. And proceeded to overeat again! Back on track now though. Just did my plan for this week, and watched a Michelle Bridges video on will power. Need to start flexing my will power muscle again. I'm half way through and definitely haven't dropped half my weight. Interestingly enough though, the scales say my fat percent is down which is good. Let's hope that's accurate, and after a couple days of being good I will be back down and more! Here's to flexing my will power muscle and getting back on track!

Week 6 Exercise & Meal Plan

Day 33 - Wine Tasting

Had an awesome sleep in this morning then went for a 45 min run around the lake. Didn't want to get up and go but I did. Yay! Felt awesome.

The view on my run this morning

Had lunch at saffron in arrowtown with our friends and my sis. Was lovely but quite expensive. I went for a stirfry which was ok. Gregs curry was much better.

Then went wine tasting at peregrine and chard farm. Was good but I had to drive. Making up for it now with a cheeky bubbles around the outside fire. My back is freezing but my toes and legs are toasty.

Toasty toes - right before my slippers started to melt!

Had an amazing dinner last night.  Mums friend came over and we were her guinea pigs for her first wine education night. Was really good. She is so knowledgeable about wine. Had 8 wines with matched food. She didn't charge us anything and leftus all the opened bottles and left over food. Perfect! I reckon she would have a great business doing that down here. Was so relaxing to do at our place where we didn't have to drive and to sit around the fire and not even think about dinner. Such a treat!

Last night's wine line up

Having a fabulous holiday. Feels like such a decent time away. Not going to want to go back to work!

Day 32 - Awesome Day Snowboarding!

Perfect spot for writing and
drinking a cheeky vodka

Had the best day snowboarding today up Coronet Peak. Crazy to say as I've never really liked it up there, but today was fabulous! The weather last night was miserable and we were thinking we might not even get to go at all. But woke up this morning to clearing skies and the snow report at Coronet sounded the best with 7cm of new snow - so off we went. And it was great! Some of it was a bit wind blown, but we managed to find some awesome little pockets and gullies full of powder and had a blast! So exhausted now! Actually feel like we worked hard today, as opposed to the last few days of boarding where we've had a lovely time but it's been pretty cruisy with the kids.

We mostly played on the big six seater chair (I forget what it's called), and it would be incredible over there with more snow. Lots of fun and interesting terrain. The snow condition was great - just wish there was more of it.

Did a tiny bit of my workout when I got back - not much just a little triceps, and some stretching. My body is too tired from the boarding to do much more!

We're staying in an awesome place up on Fern Hill. Has the most lovely master bedroom with a huge spa bath - just had one and was so relaxing! Almost fell asleep! And now sitting in the comfiest chair with an amazing view over the lake. Perfect!

Was pretty good with my eating today. Bacon and eggs for breakfast, but not too much, and soup for lunch. Had a couple drinks though - one awesome apple and feijoa hot toddy at Haidi's Hut up on the hill, and then a glass of bubbles for lunch. Been pretty good really! Going to be interesting tonight as mum's friend who is planning on setting up a business down here in Queenstown is doing a "practice" on us. She's bringing over wine and matched food, and is going to take us on a journey around Otago. Should be pretty good. And all we need to do for it is to give her feedback and let her practice on us.

Last night we had Ferg Burger for dinner. Pretty tasty, though definitely not in the diet! At least made the right choice for lunch with a filled baguette instead of  pie!

So nice having our friends here. Sill have a baby around, but is a totally different vibe to being with the family. So lucky to be able to get both! Feels like a decent holiday already and we still have lots to go! Love it.

Taking a well deserved break at Heidi's Hut with my Hot Toddy. What a view!

Day 31 - Today is a Good Day

Breakfast with a view

Had a lovely and much needed sleep in this morning, then went for a run. Accidentally went the wrong way and ended up running much further than I meant to. Ah well. Felt really good and so glad I went! Made greg a bacon and egg sammy for breakfast but I just had a small bowl of oats with banana. Yay for making the right choices!

Had a lovely night last night. Greg and I made the leek and chorizo pot roast chicken. Pretty yummy. And I think everyone appreciated it. Nice to be able to help out!

Had some whisky with dad greg and mark last night after dinner. Was good fun.

Had an amazing time with the family. Mum and dad are off home today and our friends arrive so we off to sta with them for a few days. Going to get harder to be good as there will likely be loads of drinking and eating. Just have to do my best!

Day 30 - Restarting Week 5

Had a lazy morning today. Sleep in only disrupted by toddlers insisting "they're not still sleeping" outside our door. Too cute to be angry.

Had yummy baked eggs for brekky then down to the driving range. The weather was horrendous! Sideways rain and so windy. And most likely too warm for snow. Got a bit damp but found the heaters. Who ever heard of heaters at the driving range?!

Went to the gym and felt so good for doing my workout. Then a spa and lunch in arrowtown. So nice.

Made yummy cider pot roast chicken for dinner which everyone enjoyed I think.

In all a good day. Got my exercise done and not too bad with eating. Maybe I can keep this going and not be much heavier when I get home. Not maybe. Definitely!

Day 29 - Dinner at Rata

The Bites at Rata - Smoked Fish Croquettes,
Duck Tongue & Cheese Rolls.
Not that healthy but SO YUMMY!

Another good day today. Sleep in which was very much required. Then headed up Remarkables again. Was pretty windy but still enjoyable. Grandpa is amazing.  87 and still skiing so well on the second day in a row and looking so stylish. Impressive!

Shoulda done a workout today but didn't.  No excuse except I didn't feel like it. So tired both mind and body. I did snowboard, but pretty easy and not many runs.

Didn't eat that well either. Started off good with breakfast and then a wrap for lunch, but ate quite a few of the kids chips and then cheese etc when I got back to my sisters and no one was looking.

Just been out for a an awesome dinner with Greg. Time out from my wonderful but hard work family. Love them to bits but its nice for some down time. Not used to being around toddlers! Greg and I went to Rata. Wad pretty good except for the beef Wellington main. That was disappointing. The bites were good - especially duck tongue. Never had that before. Was a bit pork tasting. Which equals goodness!

I managed to get poor Hugo lost today. Took his skis off and sent him up to meet his mum in the cafe. Don't know what I was thinking! He's 4! Found him after my next run crying in the corner. Poor little guy. It's so easy to forget he's just a little boy as he's so big and smart. Felt really bad!

Think easy day tomorrow so will get some exercise in somehow.  Need to make myself! And need to be better with eating too.

Day 28 - End of Week 4

Walking though Millbrook to Arrowtown

Having another lovely day. Slept in a little bit which was nice then got up and went for a walk to arrowtown with the kids on their bikes. They are growing up so quickly!

Came up for an afternoon half day at coronet with the whole family including grandpa. Four generations together on the snow! My grandpa is amazing! 87 and still going strong! Been so lovely and special.

Ate ok. Maybe a bit much Indian take out for dinner. Nice to have a rest day as feeling yesterday's SSS. Sure, we snowboarded, but was pretty cruisy as was with the kids mostly. Had a couple fun runs with mum, dad and Greg at the end of the day which was enjoyable.

Four generations on the snow

Day 27 - Snowboarding with the Family and SSS

Had an awesome day today. Went up remarkables with the family. Me and greg, my sis her husband and 2 kids and my parents. Such a lovely day! Was pretty easy going ski wise due to the kids but that was perfect for greg and I as we were so tired and first day back on our boards since honeymoon. Loved it. The kids are 3 and 4 and are amazing! Hugo is going completely by himself and totally in control and loves it. Was hard to get him to wait at the top long enough for greg amd I to strap in. And Tilly was going great guns too. So good by herself when she felt comfortable. And they are so cute! Had such a good time.

When we got down I was so tired. Didn't get to bed til after midnight last night and I woke up at 5 (nz time which is 3 our time!).  Wasn't going to do any exercise session as so tired and had snowboarded, even if was an easy day. But my sis got me going and I did it! The crazy cards SSS. Was good and quite challenging. Had to do burpees every time we turned a royal. I hate burpees! Did them all though. And final blast was 10mins of stairs. I did that, then added another 10 up and down for good measure. I think my legs might be a little sore tomorrow but super glad I did it.

Had a lovely dinner with the family, including grandpa who arrived today. Must be so hard for him as he can't hear much but I think he's pretty happy to be here. So hope we get up the hill tomorrow.  Its raining pretty hard right now so might be crap. Hopefully we will get an afternoon half day. Will be 4 generations on the snow together!

Looking forward to a sleep in tomorrow. The boys are still up watching rugby and drinking whisky.

Last night went to la rumbla in arrowtown for dinner which was great.  Perfect for a group. And I made all the right decisions. Ate a little of everything. Didn't overeat. And didn't touch anything sweet even though others had dessert and offered me some. Pretty happy with that! Was a little useless with the platter today. Ate a bit much but at least all healthy veges and hummus etc. Dinner was healthy too and I choose right at lunch as well. Been drinking a lot but that aside been doing well. Happy :)

One cat slept with us all night last night, and I have the other purring on my arm now. So nice! I really miss having a pet.

Cuddels with Ses

Day 26 - Queenstown Bound

A glimpse of the snow through the clouds

Watching the clouds go by

On holiday.  Yay! So happy with myself this morning.  Got up at 5! So I would have time to exercise before going to the airport. So glad I did though a little tired now. Did the JFDI Bootcamp video. It was really good. Worked up a massive sweat. Hard work but really enjoyed it.

Made it to the airport in loads of time. Got my mac makeup (yay!) and some duty free of course. So proud of myself too as greg had mcds but I had breakfast at home so didn't have any. And didn't really want any either! Also got a wholemeal sammich and salad for lunch on the plane instead of more mcds or buying crap jetstar food which is what we would normally have done. Making the right decisions so far! Well, mostly. Must admit to the couple glasses of wine. Can't go on an airplane at the beginning of a holiday without that!

Played bball last night. Parts were really good and I did a couple awesome moves and even got a couple shots. But parts were crap and we lost. the stats ladies weren't there so I wasn't able to add to my rebounds numbers. Im currently top in the league! Pretty happy bout that. Just hope I can keep the standing even though I can't play next week as will still be in QT. I hope we make the play offs but unlikely.  We were sitting 4th but depending on the other games, last night's loss may have stuffed it for us. And next week likely a loss as we are playing the top team. Ah well.  I play cos I love it. Not cos I have to win. Though winning is always good too!

Was lightest so far this morning. 85.0! Still a long way to go, but it feels good to be down there. That makes 8kgs in 8 weeks. And first 4 were preseason. Here's hoping... no. Here's committing to making the next 8 weeks great and losing at least another 8 and the rest.

First though got to get through QT. Just need to keep making the right decisions and I will be fine.  Need to remember how good I feel today for doing my exercise and making the right food choices.

I CAN DO THIS!

Landing in Queenstown

Day 25 - Can't Wait - On Holiday in 2 Hours!

Last day of work today before a whole 7 days off work! Yay! Just need to get through today.

Got up and did my fitness test and measurements this morning. Initially was disappointed with my measurements as I thought they would be a lot less as my clothes are fitting so much better and I've gone in at least 3 holes on my belt. Thought through it some more though and realise that 3cm of my waist and 5cm off my hips is actually pretty good! I also took some more photos and can definitely see the difference. I'm really far behind my goals though - think they were a bit optimistic and need a bit of revision...

We had T&C over for dinner last night. I had the best intentions, but the second Greg brought out the platter they disappeared. I had planned to not drink at all and no platter foods. Complete fail! Ate lots of trout, hummus, bread, cheese. Had about 5 glasses of wine I think. And also had seconds for dinner. Though, my firsts was really small, and my seconds even smaller. I guess all in all no where near as bad as normal, but still not as good as I could have been. Getting a bit worried about Queenstown now, as if I can't even control myself for one single dinner at home how am I going to survive 10 days? Will just have to do my best and keep flexing my will power.

Just had about an hour relaxing in the park with my book. It's so nice out. Going to be a bit of a shock to get to QT I think! Spoke to the family this morning and they are skiing in 15cm of powder today. A little bit jealous - hope there is still some good snow when we get there, and that the weather is ok. I think there is another front on the way...

Week Four Weigh In & Mini Milestone

Week 4 Fitness Test Results

Starting: 90.4kgs (pre-season: 93kgs)
Current: 86.4kgs

Since last weigh in: -0.2kgs
Since start: -4.0kgs (including pre-season: -6.6kgs)

Feels like the week since the last weigh in went so fast! Was still making bad decisions end of last week and had a couple blow outs over the weekend but am back on track. So glad I went down from last week. Should have gone down more, but at least it's moving in the right direction! Now just need to keep that happening while I am in Queenstown. Going to be a challenge!

Did the weigh in on Wednesday as usual, but the rest of the fitness test and measurements on Thurs. Happy with the fitness test results, but thought the measurements would have been better. Still, total 11cm lost in 4 weeks is pretty good I guess! If you average all the percents out, it's 42%. Not sure what that means, but it's good right? Photo looks better too. Still lots to go, but making progress!

Week 4

Day 24 - Attack!

Gym done! Sitting in the sun with my breakfast
(Oats, grated apple & milk) and my kindle,
waiting for the train - perfect start to the day!

Had an awesome workout this morning at attack. I worked so hard and felt so good. Every time I felt like slacking off I decided to keep going and keep pushing. For the first time I think it helped having the heart rate monitor on as I could see my heart rate between tracks and see how hard I was working and how many calories I was losing. Still not sure how to get the calorie count up - I worked so hard for 40mins, and still only 350 calories. I don't think I should need to do more exercise than that in a day surely! If I did I would be so exhausted!

Also finding it so much easier this week to "bounce" out of bed in the mornings. This morning I even woke up before my alarm. Might be the weather being so awesome and it being lighter when I get up has something to do with it. Regardless of the reason I'm loving it.

Enjoyed my 10 mins with breakfast in the sun at the station again. And stole another 10 mins with my coffee earlier. It's such a beautiful day! Can't believe we're going snowboarding on Friday - seems bizarre with the weather so good here. Spoke to my sis this morning and she said it's snowing hard out in Queenstown. Hopefully it stays like that, and they don't lose it all before we get there. The weather forecast looks atrocious though! Ah well, will be nice just being there with everyone regardless! Need to keep up this mindset somehow. Make sure I make the right food decisions, and the days when we're not snowboarding need to get up and get my exercise done.

Greg is on his way in to join me for lunch and then go shopping for some new clothes. He needs new pants, and I figure I can get a couple small things - my jeans are way too big now. Still got a LONG way to go, but jeans are not too expensive, and I would like ones that fit for Queenstown!

Had yummy nachos again for dinner last night. So good to have comfort food which tastes awesome, but doesn't make me feel bad for eating it!

Day 23 - I'm Back!

Had a kind of up and down start to this morning. Woke up to an email from a club re some errors from the upgrade last night. Was stressing that I would be late, but somehow managed to get that sorted, get my lunch made and get out the door and to the gym only a couple mins late for my class. And my class was awesome! I worked really hard and really enjoyed it. I smashed everyone on the rower, and even got my personal bests! 25s over 150m, 105 over 350m and 17s for 100m! Felt pretty good, and so glad I was able to get there.

I've got myself into a nice little routine on the mornings I go to the gym. Pack my breakfast of oats, grated apple and milk into a container, and then treat myself to a few minutes in the sun at the train station eating my breakfast and reading my book while waiting for the train. I used to do this, but with something from the bakery, or if I was feeling naughty then possibly even something from McDs. Funny thing is I actually enjoy my home-made breakfast eaten out of a container so much more!

Just had lunch in the park - falafel and cucumber salad box. So tasty! Found some falafels at Thomas Dux and they are really good, especially with the cucumber, hummus and tomato. Also had pita with them and while that was nice, I think next time I will just go for more hummus or falafels instead as the pita was a little plain.

We went to the driving range last night and I totally nailed it. Hit some beautiful long straight shots, including a couple with the driver. Was fun, just hope I can hit a couple shots like that when we're playing next time as I was so rubbish on the course! Greg wants to go again tonight, and I am kind of keen, but my hands are a bit sore. Also I rally need another early night as I am so tired! And we've got a lot to do this week to get sorted for Queenstown and also get our house tidy so T&C can move in! Would be good to go though.

So glad I am feeling better this week. Was worried after last week! I'm going to say was just cos the time of the month. Will try and watch for it next month, and see if I can be aware of it coming and do better!

Day 22 - Ready to Smash Week Four!

Feeling so much better today - ready to get back into it despite having a late night last night and being so tired this morning. I actually reset my alarm to get another hour's sleep before getting up, and so nearly didn't do any exercise. Made myself go out for a run and really enjoyed it! Started off pretty slow and felt like it was going to be horrible, but once I got going it was great! Had planned to do the intervals (2min jog, 1:30 power walk), followed by power walking. Felt so good I ran a couple of the off intervals, and also ran at the end! Then came back inside and finished the final blast (squat jumps and push ups) and the ab section. Even did some of the push ups on my toes! So glad I did it, even though I was pretty rushed getting out the door this morning, and ended up being super late to work. Oops! Pretty lucky that my job is so flexible.

Had a nice afternoon yesterday - Greg and I went and played our first couple of holes of golf. I was useless! Was a bit frustrating at times. At the second hole you have to hit over a really big lake! Let's just say we both lost some balls... I think it's quite a hard course, with lots of skinny fairways. The longer bigger open ones were better for us - although it took a lot more hits to get there at least we didn't lose so many balls! I can see us spending quite a bit of money on balls for the next little while! It was such a lovely evening and I really enjoyed walking round with Greg. Looking forward to the next time, but a bit nervous about playing in Queenstown with my sis. I think my problem mostly was just I tried to hard. Need to relax and remember my technique.

Were so tired afterwards, and had to go to the supermarket. Really didn't want to, but we did! Although we went out to dinner first - just local Mexican. And I'm proud of myself. I just got a salad. A super yummy, super big salad with loads of ingredients. But I only ate half. Was happy with that as every other time we've had Mexican I've always overeaten so much as the portions are huge!

Just had the left over Mexican for lunch lying in the park in the sun. So nice! Started reading my book, but so sleepy! Had to put it down and slept for a half hour! Was so good.

Week Four Challenge - Train with a Buddy

So, the challenge this week is to train with a buddy. That's going to be a little hard with me as Greg will not get out of bed in the mornings. I think I should have it covered though with Basketball, and also once I get to Queenstown can hopefully so the SSS with the whole family.

Seeing as I failed so miserably with last weeks challenge (to give up a vice), I'm going to continue with that this week, although I will tweak it a little...

So, my three challenges this week are to:

• Eat only whats in my plan
• Log EVERYTHING that goes into my mouth
• No alcohol until we get to Queenstown on Friday

I haven't been logging my food this past week, and hoping that by starting to log again I will bring a bit more accountability to it, and feel more like making the right choices!

Updated Tues 17/9:
Managed the train with a buddy - did my SSS with mum and my sister, and it was great!
Didn't do so well on the other challenges though as had a whisky tasting part way through the week... Think I managed to log most everything though.

Week 4 Exercise & Meal Plan

Day 21 - Week Three Over - Start Again Now!

Shabu Shabu with the girls.
Veges, meats and dumplings cooked in
seaweed flavoured water.
Was delicious!

What a pathetic week :( Have been really useless with my eating. I've been pretty busy with work, and we've just been too tired and lazy to cook properly.  So stupid! I've been exercising properly, but have still gone backwards big time.

In the good news - my team won the foundry event at work. Was a really great experience, though there were so many lollies and chips and soft drinks around which just did NOT help! Wasn't quite ready to face that just yet. Also went out on Friday with the team to celebrate and had a few drinks. Then last night the boys had whisky at my house, and the girls were at T&Cs for bubbles and shabu shabu. Was good fun, but again - too much eating and drinking!  At least the shabu shabu was healthy!

We go to Queenstown on Friday - need to eat super clean between now and then and try get back to at least where I was. I have 5 days. This is not going to be easy, but I can do it! Need to get back on track and I know I will feel much better about myself.

Just reminded myself of the week three challenge - to give up a vice. I was not going to buy any food midweek and was also going to have 6 alcohol free days.  Complete failure on both fronts! The week four challenge is to find a workout buddy. I think I will have that covered once I get to Queenstown, and will see if I can rope Greg into a couple with me.  But I also think I will try the give up a vice challenge over again, and also start logging my food again.

So, starting right now - first things first - I have freezing toes, so need to find some socks! Then I'm going to make breakfast of oats with grated apple, then I'm going to come back to my desk and get on top of some work. Hopefully I can get it done quickly, then when Greg gets up we can go enjoy this gorgeous day.