Pre-Season Task: Get Real

Time to do the pre-season tasks for the next round. I think I did ok last round, but I definitely need to work on the mindset stuff, so here we go...

The first task is to write down all my excuses and my solutions. This is pretty common sense, the trick is remembering all this stuff "in the heat of the moment" and making the right choices. Think I might need to put this somewhere more easily accessible so I can keep referring back to it!

Internal Excuses I've worked out today so I can eat whatever I want If I eat too much I can throw it up I just can't be bothered sticking to my plan (eating or exercising) I'll start over again tomorrow		Solutions Change my thinking to: "I've worked out today so I'm on my way towards my goals and the scales will say I am lighter in the morning if I don't succumb to my cravings" Drink some water and wait a while to make sure I am actually hungry and not just wanting something Throwing up is SO bad for me, it makes me feel depressed and down about myself and is not something I want to continue doing Eating only gives me shot term momentary pleasure, but in the longer term I feel fat and gross and like I've let myself down Practise mindful eating - don't do anything else while I am eating, focus on the food and taste of it, and learn to recognise when I am getting full - sit at the table and ensure the TV is off and discuss the food or other things with Greg - need to work out how to do this at lunch time too. Tomorrow never comes - start now or risk never getting to my goals Pull out my plan for the week and stick to it! Get out my goal clothes, or look at a photo of me being fat or being thin and think about what I want Read through my goals and these excuses and solutions If all else fails, stop being useless, suck it up and JFDI! I will be so happy that I did!
External Excuses - In My Control I've got other things I could/should be doing which are more important (even though they are not) I'm too tired It's an event so I should eat and drink whatever I want otherwise I won't have fun and other people will think I'm a party pooper		Solutions Those other things can wait - I've planned for this and I do have time to do it if I get off my butt right now and JFDI I might be tired, but I will be even more so if I don't exercise and eat the right food Doing the right thing gives me a boost, and I'm going to be tired anyway, so may as well be tired and feel good about myself at the same time! Who cares what others think? Remember that I can have fun without drinking and I can say no Remember my goals, and that each thing I don't eat or drink now helps me get those goals and the rewards that go with them

Day 80 - Wow 80 days!

It's nearing the end, and I'm feeling a little flat. I've done pretty well, but have been sabotaging myself a little recently. I'm not sure why I do it, but every time I get a good result I go a bit backwards. Well, I think this time I've caught myself in the act, and I'm not going to give up! I need to celebrate my wins, and keep telling myself that it's not over - this is a lifestyle thing, and I've realised that I've got a bit more to go yet before this is my lifestyle.

I've lost 8kgs (11 if you count pre-season) and while it's not as much as I wanted to lose, I still feel pretty good! I feel so much better in my clothes, my fitness is coming back and I feel much more confident. Just need to keep at it, and imagine how good I will feel!

So this morning, I was debating going for my run. I dragged myself out of bed, and set about doing anything to procrastinate. I sorted out some papers, printed tonight's recipe, got the chicken out of the freezer, basically did a whole lot of stuff that needed to be done, but didn't need to be done right at that moment. Then I thought to myself "this is stupid" so I grabbed my headphones and set out. I only walked, but while I was out I listened to a whole heap of Michelle Bridge's videos and they hit home. There's plenty more left here for me. I can do this! Just need to stop making excuses in my head and JFDI!

One video in particular definitely gave me tips to keep in mind:

1. Get support
   For this one I do have an amazing family and friend network, but I think next round I should get more involved in the forums. I do lurk and read the forums, but I've hardly posted. there are groups in there and surely I can find one to join but I'm not quite sure how to go about it. Guess I need to spend some more time looking into it.
2. Become my own biggest fan
   I'm pretty good at doing this, but one issue I have is that I talk myself up too much in my head and think I am doing better than I am which then in turn some how lets me justify sabotaging myselg. I need to keep this realistic - definitely celebrate my wins, but then instead of giving in to temptation, think about my win again, and realise that it could be negated. Think about turning my being strong into yet another win!
3. Set SMART goals
   I have goals mostly, but need to keep them more in the front of my mind. Maybe stick them somewhere more obvious, like on my phone lock screen. The rewards should be healthy ones with emotion involved - the more emotion invested, the more it will mean to me. Mish suggested a holiday to climb a mountain. While that sounds like fun to me, its not realistic as it's not something Greg would do, and I only have so many holidays and would rather spend them with him. Perhaps I can investigate a girly heath retreat for a weekend or something. I'm actually looking forward to resetting my goals again in the next round preseason tasks (which I need to get on to).
4. Get organised!
   I can do the planning, it's just the follow through on the planning that I'm not so good at. I've been shopping for the first few days of the week recently, and figuring that I will shop again on Wed or Thu. The problem is it's gets to then and I can't be bothered, and then on Fri, Sat or Sun when we've run out of food and we're feeling tired or hung over we've been getting takeaways. Not good! This week I've shopped for the whole week. Hopefully it works and we don't end up throwing away food! The other issue is that I've been taking my lunch to work but not eating it. Instead I've been buying crap. Such waste on so many levels! Well, it's stopping today! I've got yummy left overs from yesterday, and I've also brought only enough cash for my coffee so I can't buy anything else
   .
5. Create supportive habits
   I need to get more into my rituals again. I was doing so well for a while, but then I crash a bit. If I stick to my plan, I will get back into the habit and then it will become easier.
6. JFDI!!!
   Seriously. Get shut up and get on with it! Sometimes, yes it hurts, and yes it's boring, and yes I can't be bothered, but just get on with it! I won't regret it, but I will regret not doing it!

So the action points from this:

1. Get into the forums
2. Don't listen to the justifications in my head
3. Find a reward I really want (and can't have or won't enjoy unless I do this)
4. Follow my plans - no excuses
5. JFDI!!!

Day 78 - First Day of the Last Week

Wow! We're down to the wire. It's the last week! Seems like the past 12 weeks have gone really fast, though it also feels like the day I signed up was a long time ago... I'm happy so far with my results, but want to give it my all over the next 7 days, and get rid of another couple of kgs before the end of the week. I can do this!

We had a lovely weekend. Greg's parents are here, and it was my niece's 1st birthday party. She is so super cute! Ate a bit much, and drank way too much! And no time for a workout as we had to be over there early to help get things organised, and had to go pick up our new golf clubs on the way. I must admit though I felt pretty good in myself at the party. Still overweight and a long way to go, but so much better than I was.

I'm so stoked with our new clubs. We got such a great deal on them, and they feel really good in your hands. We went and played with Greg's dad at Long View on Sunday. I started off amazingly, but then just got worse and worse! I think just a bit tired, hungover and too hot! I'm going to go buy a cooler shirt I think as my red one is too hot and heavy.

We were so tired when we got home after golf yesterday. I wanted to eat well, but there was no food at home and we just couldn't be bothered so we ordered Indian, and once again I proceeded to eat too much. However, getting on the scales today I was pleasantly surprised as I'm still in the low 83s. Maybe dehydrated, or maybe all that walking for golf yesterday. Either way it's given me even more motivation to keep at it!

I've done my planning for the week, and we have some yummy meals coming up, and plenty of exercise. I'm feeling determined today!

Week 12 Exercise & Meal Plan

Day 74 - Stay Strong

Watched the Surviving in the real world video by Michelle today and some of it rung true - especially about justifying the wrong decisions. I do that all the time! I think through little things like maybe I can have one little something cos I worked so hard today, or maybe I can exercise harder tomorrow if I don't today. I really need to change that around and think I worked so hard today so I don't want / need a little something as I already feel so good. And if I exercise today and tomorrow imagine how amazing I will feel.

I didn't much like the advice to not use food as fun. We love sharing meals out with friends, and the food is definitely part of the fun. I guess need to switch the focus somewhat, and make it more about the occasion and hanging out with friends than about the food. Although there will definitely be times where the focus will be 100% on the food. I'm not willing to let that go. It's too enjoyable to have an amazing meal and discuss all the different parts and which were the best. I just need to make the right choices around when and how often I do that, and even when I do, I can realise I don't need to eat it all, and I can even choose something healthier should I want to and that is just fine!

I need to stay strong!

I also watched the Taking Stock video and made myself an Action Plan, and also wrote a letter to myself to open in 6 months. Got me feeling quite motivated and organised. I've got my diary sorted and am looking forward to following through.

We picked up Greg's parents from the airport last night and had a lovely dinner at T&Cs with them. This morning we were planning on playing golf, but we've been sleeping so badly - I think cos it's been so hot - that we couldn't get up. The exact same thing happened yesterday.

Day 73 - Loo La Loo Rah!

Feeling pretty happy today as I'm down in the 82's. I've been here very briefly twice in the last month, but I feel like today I'm really here! I've been hovering around the 83 mark and slowly heading down. It feels really good, and sustainable. My BMI is coming down too. When I started it was over 28 which is near the top of the overweight range. It's dropped now to 26 - only a couple more to go before I'm in the healthy range. I can do this!

Had a good morning snack today - half a large wholemeal pita with hummus. Possibly a little high on the calorie side, but tasty, and hopefully it stops the afternoon cravings - we'll see!

Last night we made Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup. It was really yummy, mainly cos I think Greg spiced up the broth a bit with some chilli and other goodness. I've got the leftovers for lunch. It seems even when we make the Michelle Bridges portions we nearly always have some left over for lunch!

After dinner we went to the driving range and I was so much better than at Mona Vale. Really looking forward now to getting out there and playing again!

Also today we just committed to going to Canada with Grandpa next year. Pretty exciting! So much for last year being the last trip for him. Going to be so awesome to be able to share it with him and the rest of the family. We were planning on going to Japan early next year, but will now be Canada instead. Part of me is a little disappointed as we so wanted to do Japan, but this is our only chance to go with Grandpa, and it will be really good to take Greg to some of the places I so enjoyed going to before we met. It's awesome that we're going to Sun Peaks and Silver Star which are the two we went to last time I went over with the family. Will be great to see if it's like I remember it. I'm starting to look forward to it!

Week 11 Weigh In

Starting: 90.4kgs (pre-season: 93kgs)
Current: 82.3kgs

Since last weigh in: -0.8kgs
Since start: -8.1kgs (including pre-season: -10.7kgs)

I'm still heading down - Yay! Got a bit to go though if I want to be under 80 at the end. Just over a week to go - I can do this!

Day 72 - Feeling Fit & Strong on Tighten Up Tuesday

Really enjoyed Shockwave this morning. Can't believe I almost didn't get out of bed - so glad I did! I was fastest again on the rower, and also felt so strong for the rest of the workout, especially the abs which is awesome as that's always been my weakest. Still a long way to go, but feeling pretty chuffed with myself today!

We babysat for T&C last night and cooked there. We made the Garlic Prawns with Rice, Lentil & Green Bean Salad. It was pretty yummy, but needed a bit more flavour. Not sure what else you could add though. I enjoyed it regardless, and am looking forward to the left overs for lunch.

I think I need to sort out my morning snacks a bit better. I always do afternoons well, but struggle a bit on what to have in the morning. I sometimes do a coffee, but it's a bit unsatisfying, and also sometimes a mission to go get when I am busy and it's not nice outside. Might need to have a look through the recipes and see if there are any that jump out at me. It's a bit strange as there are loads in there, but some I just don't like the idea of in the morning.

I think we're heading to the driving range tonight after work. Looking forward to hitting some balls again and hopefully being better than I was at Mona Vale!

Week 11 Exercise & Meal Plan

Day 71 - 2 Weeks to Go!

Bring it on! Only two weeks to go. Was mostly pretty happy with my choices over the weekend. I didn't drink Friday or Saturday, and didn't overeat too much either. It was the Crows Nest Festival on Sunday, so had quite a bit of wine at the wine tasting stalls, but didn't have any extra when we got home, and also made the really yummy Chickpea, Ricotta and Tomato salad for dinner.

Ended up being a really fun weekend in the end. Friday we left work early and went to play at North Bridge. I played fairly well. Did some awesome shots, including getting on the green from my tee shot on #5. Stoked with that! Was so tired after we just chilled at home and Greg made us a pizza out of whatever he could find - it ended up being super yummy! It had mince, zucchini, feta, olives and other things.

Greg putting on #3 at Northbridge.
Check out the little ducklings on the right. So cute!

From the tee on #5 at Northbridge

Fuzzy fuzzy ducklings! All I can think of now is
"all the ducks are swimming in the water. La la la la la la..."

On the green (just) for one.
That little pink dot at the back of the green is my ball :)

On Saturday I got up early, did a tiny workout then got some work done. We then went to the driving range and then to Mona Vale for 18 holes. So much golf! I played terribly. I think I just freaked myself out. By the 15th hole I was so over it and just gave up. I said to myself I'm going to make myself finish this hole then go sit in the car and wait for Greg. I then hit my best drive of the day and continued to actually play quite well from then on. I'm pretty sure I was just over thinking it and trying too hard to begin with. I was topping almost every ball and miss hitting a lot. It was so frustrating. I also had a little tanty and threw my club! Not the best behaviour. Luckily Greg was super patient with me and was so nice. When we got home it was pretty late and we were exhausted so ordered take out. Was super average and didn't really enjoy it. At least that meant I didn't eat too much of it!

Mum stayed again last night after her conference and we got up and went for a lovely walk this morning. Was so peaceful and nice being out with her and chatting. I'm so glad I got up and did it! Wasn't the full workout it should have been, but we walked for an hour.

I said at the beginning of the weekend I still wanted to be in the 83's at the end of the weekend, and this morning I was! Very happy with that. Now to power through these next 2 weeks, and lost at least another 3 so I can finish under 80. I can do it!

Freaky red sun and eerie feeling due to all the bush fire smoke

Day 68 - Fire Fire Fire

Had a lovely evening on Wednesday, then day yesterday with my mum in town. Wednesday night we went to the Night Noodle Markets which were great! Actually was pretty restrained on the food, but not so much the wine... was pretty hung over on Thursday morning! I think the best thing we ate was the ramen burger - basically a burger patty with lettuce etc between ramen noodles baked into a cake on top and bottom for the bun. Yum! Also had lots of tasty dumplings and some delicious prawns.

On Thursday mum came into work with me and we had a lovely breakfast out, then went to the Body Balance class at lunch time. I so enjoy that class! It was the flexibility one so lots of stretching and balancing. There's also a strength one - I enjoy both. I think mum liked it too.

In the afternoon the light started turning all weird and eerie from all the bush fires. There's over 100 fires burning in NSW right now. Pretty crazy! It's so hazy and smoky smelling and tasting outside now, and the sunset yesterday was spectacular. Feel so sorry for all those people losing their homes. It's just been so dry and hot recently, and yesterday was so windy.

Mum had to get the ferry to Parramatta for her conference, but we missed one so had time for a lovely glass of wine down at Circular Quay. She took all these awesome photos of the smoke in the sky.

I also had basketball last night at 10pm. So late! We played awesomely though and won convincingly. Got 13 rebounds, and second highest efficiency. We have a new girl in our team who is really good, and is exactly what our team needed - she's quick and can shoot threes. I think our team is going to be hard to beat this season when we're all there and are playing well. Looking forward to the grand finals!

I was so tired this morning due to my late night, so didn't get up for my exercise this morning. I have my stuff for the gym, but not sure if I will make it. We're planning on leaving early to go play golf, so at least I will get some exercise walking around the golf course. I'm adamant that I'm going to lose another 3kgs and get below 80 before my 12 weeks end. To do that I'm going to need to keep exercising, but also need mostly to just eat clean, and not drink! We have nothing on this weekend, so should be easy enough, but next weekend is our niece's 1st birthday so I'm sure there will be lots of wine flowing! Just need to ensure I don't drink too much, and that I keep the eating under control. Then the following Friday is a friend from work's leaving do and I'm sure we will have a lot to drink there too... Just need to make sure those are the only two occasions I drink.

Week 10 Weigh In

Starting: 90.4kgs (pre-season: 93kgs)
Current: 83.0kgs

Since last weigh in: -0.6kgs
Since start: -7.4kgs (including pre-season: -10kgs)

Yay!  That's the 10kgs mark (including pre-season). Should be down more, but happy with that!

Day 66 - Running in the Morning Sunshine

View from Northbridge on my run this
morning - loving the sunshine

Good morning so far today. Got up and went for a 7km run and felt really good! Was pretty slow, especially to start with (I walked for the first 8mins to get warmed up), but I managed it in 55mins. It's such a beautiful day too, so nice to be outside in the morning.

We played golf again last night at Lane Cove and I did ok.  Definitely getting better.  And again it was a glorious evening. A little cooler so no flies luckily! I hit some absolute rubbish shots, but also probably the best drive I have ever done. Lost a few balls getting over the gully though as my slice made a reappearance! That's 4 golf rounds in 5 days! Really enjoying it, both the actual golf but (though that is rather frustrating at times), but also the just being out and about and doing lots of walking and spending time with Greg. The only problem is it's costing us a bit of money. We need to get our own clubs and sort out where we want to join.

My mum arrives today - so looking forward to seeing her. We're going to head to the Night Noodle Markets tonight with mum and some of the gang. Should be fun!

My ball is the pretty pink one. I was here for 2,
but then stuffed the next shot :(
Greg (white ball) was here on his drive!
It's hole #5 which is a par 4

About to tee off on hole #5 (in my new golf outfit).
This ended up being a pretty good drive!

Day 65 - Tighten Up Tuesday #2

Smashed my shockwave workout this morning. Was fastest on the rower again, and beat my best time - 16sec for 100m! Pretty happy with that. It was also on my second row at 100m, so I beat my first round. The instructor said she's never seen a girl do that fast in any of her classes, and most of the guys can't even go that fast. Maybe I should have taken that rowing scholorship when I was back at school...

Last night I didn't do my workout though. Was planning to, but we went to the supermarket and Greg decided he wanted to see Gravity movie. We almost went out for dinner, but I decided no, we had to at least eat at home seeing as we'd just been to the supermarket! We had the Chickpea, Tomato & Ricotta salad and it was super yummy! Then went to the movie which was pretty good, but not as great as it's been made out to be. The visuals were spectacular. I also had an ice cream at the movies... I enjoyed it, but not that much. I shouldn't have had it.

Am currently sitting at my desk starving and trying to decide what to do. It's Tighten up Tuesday, which means no coffee, but that's my usual morning snack so not sure what else to have. I guess seeing as it's decaf it might be ok?

Planning on golfing a bit tonight. Hopefully we'll get home early enough to head back to Lane Cove or Castle Cove, but if not it will be the driving range later. I really enjoy it, and Greg is obsessed! It's costing us a bit of money though.

Day 64 - Good Weekend, But Feeling Down Today

Mmmm... Grange!

Ouchies!

We had such a lovely weekend. Lots of friends time and even played 3 rounds of golf in 3 days! Friday twilight, Saturday morning and yesterday evening. I played pretty good on Friday, and even better on Sunday, but so rubbish on Saturday. Possibly due to being a more than a bit hungover and getting up so early in the morning!

On Friday night after our golf we went out for dinner with T&C to Cafe Giulia Hulia which is part of Urban Food Markets and has the most amazing meats. We were celebrating Chad's new job, and it was BYO so we had their bottle of Grange which he was given and told to save until it was 20 years old. It was awesome! Especially combined with the setting - lime green walls! The food was delicious - pork scratchings and tater tots with chipotle mayo to start, followed by various yummy meats. Definitely not Michelle Bridges approved! We went back to theirs afterwards (once the owners finally managed to kick us out as the restaurant was closing) and had a little more wine and borrowed their golf clubs.

Saturday morning we woke up so early and decided to go for a round of golf. We were so hung over, and I played terribly! Not sure it was the greatest idea, but it was lovely being out there so early in the morning.

After we played golf the girls became the "Lady's Who Lunch" at The Morrison. It was really nice to sit around and chat with all the girls while drinking lovely wine and eating yummy food. Another Michelle Bridges UN-approved event! After lunch we went and met up with the boys at T&Cs house where they were looking after the 2 bubbas and having their own boys event. It was such a nice afternoon just sitting round and relaxing with everyone. I tried to convince a few to come back to ours after, but I'm glad they didn't in the end as I was shattered when we got home, and just wanted bed!

I got up super early again on Sunday morning for my trail run, which was awesome! It was 6.5kms through Centennial Park and I did it in about 40mins. I felt pretty good, and like I should have gone faster, but it was so damn hot! At one stage I was running along and had managed to catch the girl in front of me as she slowed down to go over some rough bits. I powered past her and was running along thinking how awesome I was and how good at the rough bits I am when... I totally hit the deck. I managed to get myself a skinned knee and a lot of embarrassment. I got up pretty quick! I'm doing it again in November, so will be trying to beat my time, and hopefully no more skinned knees next time. It was so nice to be out and about again in the morning, and the park is such a lovely place to be. It was so still and peaceful.

The cutest fuzzy yellow gosling chilling in the park

Centennial Park - so still (and already so hot) at 7am 

Sunday afternoon we headed over the bridge to Fratelli Fresh to lunch with D&V. Was anotehr lovely lunch, but again, not Michelle Bridges approved. When we got home I was so tired I crashed on the couch. I couldn't stay awake to even read my book! Finally felt alive again a couple hours later and Greg convinced me to play more golf. I was so glad we went though as it was another lovely day and I played really well. I'm really enjoying the golf, and I am getting better.

Chicken & Leek Pie w Mushy Peas

We made the Chicken & Leek Pie with Mushy Peas last night for dinner (at least that was one good decision!) and it was really good. Definitely one to remember.

So, with all of that I obviously didn't eat so well over the weekend, and didn't finish my burpees challenge as was just too tired on Saturday and then forgot last night. I also didn't get up for my workout this morning, and work is sucking at the moment too. Was feeling pretty down in the dumps this morning, but feeling a little better this afternoon. I've just had a conversation with my boss about work, and made my plan for this week, and going to try be motivated enough to do my workout when I get home tonight. Here's to making this another great week so I can achieve my goals!

Lane Cove Green #1 on Saturday morning around 8am - yep that's my ball on the green after only 3 shots!
Ended up with a 1 putt to get 4 on the par 3. Happy :)

Week 10 Exercise & Meal Plan

Day 61 - Insane Bolt!

The oval I ran round and round in for Insane Bolt

I did the Insane Bolt SSS this morning, and yup, it was insane! It went a little something like this:

• 10 mins rolling intervals (1min 50%, 1min 80%, 1min 90%, 1min 100%, 1min recovery, repeat)
• 5 mins interval sprints (30secs 100%, 30secs recover, repeat)
• walking lunges and sumo pulses
• repeat 3 times!

I did it at the oval just down the road, running round and round in circles. Wonder how many times I went round? It was hard, especially as I got it wrong and ended up doing 10 mins of interval sprints the first two times! I wondered why it was taking me longer than expected! It was super hard to being with, and I nearly stopped a couple of times, but I persevered and got it done, and now feel so good! So tired, but so good!

I was so stuffed at the end, I wasn't going to do any burpees today, but I decided to do at least a few, and ended up doing 50. I'm making good progress. Only 270 left to go to get to my 800 challenge this week. Should easily be able to do those over the weekend.

It's a pretty gloomy day compared with yesterday (which ended up getting to 37). I just finished my workout and got into the car when it started pouring with rain. Good timing!

Was also in the 82's when I finished my workout - first time being that low! I'm happy with my progress this week, especially on the exercise front. Done a few really hard workouts and am proud of myself. Now just need to keep it up!

Went to the driving range again last night, and was good, but a bit frustrating. I didn't hit very many clean shots, but more went straight, so that's good I guess. Was pretty tired, and it was also still at least 30 degrees at 9pm, so was pretty warm. I'm looking forward to playing tomorrow. Just hope my legs hold out as they are so tired right now, and they need to be recovered enough for my trail run on Sunday.

Had yummy pizza last night too. They sound a bit boring when you read them, cos no real cheese or anything, but they are actually really tasty. We used pita bread as the base, then topped with ricotta, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, rocket and basil, and then added a little olive oil once cooked. Yummy! Forgot to take a photo unfortunately... 

Day 60 - That's a Lot of Days!

Wow - can't believe it's day 60. I actually haven't counted how many days there actually are, but 60 seems like a milestone somehow! Just calculated it now - 12 weeks = 84 days. Not many to go!

Had a great day so far today. Got up early and went to a golf lesson with Greg. It was really good. I've started a golf blog with my notes so I can remember what to try each time - it's here: Emma Plays Golf. It was such a beautiful morning, and has turned into a super hot day. The clouds have disappeared and it's so warm in the sun. As usual it's freezing in the office though. Just got back from lunch about 2mins ago and already need to put my cardi on!

Went to the gym at lunch and did my burpees. Funnily enough I am starting to hate them less. Thought I would be hating them more! Got through 180 today before going to Body Balance, which was awesome as always. I really love that class. I come out of it feeling like I've had a really good workout and stretch, and feel so relaxed.

Had an awesome chicken salad sorted for lunch today (last nights left overs) and when I went to eat it before the gym, it wasn't in my bag. Was so annoyed when I realised I left it in the car! Grrr! Went to the gym pretty hungry. Walking out of the gym though I passed a Vietnamese Roll place and got yummy rice paper rolls. Proud of myself for getting something healthy. And it was yummy. Ate in the park, in the shade today. Greg just told me the temp is rising - 37 degrees now! It was expected to get to 39 this morning! Wonder if it will? Wish we were at the beach!

Week 9 Weigh In

Starting: 90.4kgs (pre-season: 93kgs)
Current: 83.6kgs

Since last weigh in: -1.1kgs
Since start: -6.8kgs (including pre-season: -9.4kgs)

Updated Goals

Only 4 weeks left, and I don't think my original goals are doable, so I have reset them. I'm not happy I haven't met them, but know exactly why - I haven't given this my all! I've done ok, but not as well as I could have. Four weeks left, and I really want to do this. I want to be feeling amazing at the group workout at the end, not just "I'm better than what I was".

	TIME	DATE	WEIGHT	INCREMENTAL	TOTAL CHANGE
ACTUAL PROGRESS
Sign Up Weight		14 Jul 2013	92
Start 12WBT	4 Weeks	10 Aug 2013	90.4	-1.6	-1.6
End Week 8	8 Weeks	9 Oct 2013	83.6	-6.8	-8.4
FUTURE GOALS
End 12WBT	4 Weeks	3 Nov 2013	77	-6.6	-15
Before NZ for Xmas	7 Weeks	20 Dec 2013	72	-5	-20

Day 59 - I HATE BURPEES!!!

Had a great start this morning. Dragged myself out of bed, and went for a 6.5km run, through the bush by the train station. It was pretty slow, but felt so good! Thought I had better do it as my trail run is creeping up - it's on Sunday and I haven't been doing much running! When I got back I did my 150 burpees. Man I hate burpees! They are so tiring. I did them in sets of 10 which makes them not too bad. It's funny, I hate them at the time, but now I feel so good, and in fact felt really good as soon as I got my breath back. So glad I did them.

Was also my lowest weight yet this morning, despite the bit of a fail with the NZ trip. I think Tighten Up Tuesday really helped. Need to make sure I keep doing it every week.

Had a look at my calendar last night as we want to do a golf weekend away, and realised we don't have a completely free weekend until Nov 30! Going to be a struggle to get the weight loss going with all that happening. I guess I will just need to be as good as I can during the weekends, without making myself miserable, and maybe instead of just Tighten Up Tuesday, I should be doing Tighten Up on all mid-week days! Will see how I go.

Had a productive evening last night - went to the supermarket on the way home and stocked up on lots of fresh yummy food, then cooked Fabulous Japanese Prawn Noodles which were a winner! After dinner we went to the driving range which I really enjoyed. Think I am definitely getting better. We watched a couple of YouTube videos on how to fix my slice, and I practised a lot of things, and think I am improving! Looking forward to getting back out on the course again, and to our lesson tomorrow.

Day 58 - Tighten Up Tuesday!

Winding through the mangroves on
the way out to the harbour

Mmm... scallops anyone?

Ok, so lost about a week there... Went back to NZ for my Nana's funeral. Which while sad was so lovely. So many people turned up to send her off, and I got to see a lot of people I haven't seen in a very long time. Nana would have loved it! All the aunts, uncles and cousins went out to the farm and had dinner and drinks. She would have been there having a glass of wine (or three) with us, and enjoying everyone's company. It was so nice to all be together.

The next day I was feeling a little worse for wear! However, pulled my socks up and went out on the boat for scallops with Grandpa, two uncles and two cousins, and we got loads of scallops! Was such a special treat to be able to go out again with Grandpa. And he's so impressive - getting the old boat in and out and driving his car and backing the trailer. Not to mention driving the boat and sorting out the scallop dredge. He's amazing! And he reckons he's going back to Canada to ski again next year. I need to keep on with this Michelle Bridges and keeping healthy so at 86 I can still be doing everything he is!

Didn't do so well eating wise, or excising for that matter while I was away. Had a lovely afternoon at the Kumeu vineyards with the NZ gang, and then out for dinner and to see David Dallas that night. Then was just slack the rest of the time. Chocolate and BK on the plane, oh, and they have Georgie Pie back so had to have one for old times sake...

Got back on Sunday exhausted. Thankfully yesterday was a public holiday so we had a little sleep in then up to play gold. Went to Lane Cove golf club which is awesome - so quiet, and cheaper than anywhere else. There was even a man playing with his puppy following him along! I played pretty well. Obviously still making loads of mistakes, but definitely getting lots better. I have a slice that I can't work out how to get rid of. Pretty annoying as am hitting the ball cleanly. Have a lesson on Thursday, so will ask Ray then. Hopefully he will sort me out! Also can't wait to we get our own clubs, so can get used to them!

After golf went to the park with some of the Aussie gang for a bbq. Again ate to much. Then proceeded to go home and had a platter for dinner. Was yummy, but yet again too much!

Woke up this morning and nearly got into "paralysis by analysis" as Michelle Bridges calls it. Then decided JFDI and got up. So pleased I did. Shockwave was awesome, and I also managed a start on the weekly challenge of 800 burpees (!!!!!!). I did 150 this morning. Seems a blur now when I think back on it. So glad I did them!

On the way to the gym also watched a couple of Michelle's videos, including Tighten Up Tuesdays - all about making Tuesdays super clean eating and smashing our workouts. I like it! Been good so far today - oats and berries for breakfast, then a wrap for lunch. No coffee this morning, and have celery and hummus for afternoon snack. Just made the menu plan and shopping list for this week too, and we're having chicken salad for dinner. I put on 1.5kgs while in NZ. Determined to have that come back off!

I've also been thinking about my goals this morning. My original was to be down to 72 kgs by the end of my 12 weeks. Obviously as that is still over 12kgs from where I am, and I only have 4 weeks to go, that isn't going to happen! I've reset them, and am now aiming for 77. That will put be back at the lower end of where I was easily sitting a while back. It won't be where I want to get to, but will be a super good start! And I will keep working on it after 12wbt anyway. Considering signing up for another round...

Grandpa on his boat at the farm

Week Nine Challenge: Burpees!

I hate burpees! And this week's challenge is 800! When I first read that I thought it would be totally undoable. However this morning I managed 150, and that was after Shockwave! And so I have decided I can do this after all!

• Tue 8 Oct 7:45am: 150! In sets of 10 with last 20 together after shockwave
• Wed 9 Oct 7:30am: 150 in sets of 10 with last 20 together after run
• Thu 10 Oct 12:30pm: 180! In sets of 10 before body balance. Was only going to do 150 but finished too early before class so did more. That puts me over the half way mark :D
• Fri 11 Oct 7:30am: 50 in sets of 10 after Insane Bolt SSS

Done: 530

Left: 270

Week 9 Exercise & Meal Plan

Day 52 - Keep Going

Got up this morning and did my fitness test - man it was hard! Didn't do as well as I wanted, but still better mostly than last time. Pretty tired today, and over work. Just got to keep going - think about pay-offs and costs. I want this and I can do it!

Breakfast: Roast Tomatoes, Feta and Basil on Toast (was supposed to be Ricotta but we had none!)

Week 8 Weigh In and Mini Milestone

Week 8 Results

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

Since last weigh in: 0kgs
Since start: -5.9kgs (including pre-season: -9.2kgs)

Have been up and down a bit this week. Doesn't help being this time of the month...

Fitness test this morning was a little demoralising to being with, as I started with the 1km run and was slower than last time! I felt slow too - really lethargic and couldn't get going. My ankle was bothering me a bit. Thinking I may need to warm up a little more before next time.

It did get better though. I beat every other test, and also lost quite a few cms. Should have been better, but still can celebrate how far I've come! Just added up my cms - I've lost 22cm overall. Pretty happy with that! Still a long way to go, and no where near where my goals were, but I'm on my way, and I am feeling so much better! I think I need to reassess my goals, as is pretty unlikely I'm going to get to 70kgs in the next 4 weeks. I think I should aim for 78kgs. That's another 6, so still be hard, but I can do it!

Looking at the photos, there's quite a difference between the before and now, but not much between week 4 and week 8. Need to work hard so there is a bigger difference by week 12! Also need to make sure I get the lighting and which way I face more consistent!

Week 8

Week 4

Before

Day 51 - Sadness :(

Was doing my workout on Saturday and heard my phone go. I decided not to answer it as wanted to finish my workout, but listened to the message and it was my dad. My dad doesn't often call, so immediately I knew something was up. My Nana has been sick for quite some time so I figured that was it. I decided to finish my workout anyway as I knew once I spoke to him there would be no way I would go back to it. Did my last exercises with my Nana very much in my mind. After my workout I called my dad back, and yes, my Nana had passed away over night. She died peacefully in her sleep in her bed at home. I'm incredibly sad, but at the same time I am pleased she didn't have to move into a nursing home, and she and grandpa got to live out her last days together in their house. She was quite uncomfortable I think, and ready to go.

I've been ok over the last couple days. Went for my run yesterday morning thinking of my Nana and there were a few tears - it's hard to run when you are crying! Been eating ok too, and did my shockwave class this morning. We're going to NZ tomorrow for the funeral. Going to be very sad, but also so nice to be with my family.

Also managed to fit in two games of golf over the weekend - Cammeray on Saturday and Moore Park on Sunday, and a driving range session on both Sunday and Monday! It is such a frustrating game, but I'm getting better! I wish I had rung my Nana and told her I was learning to play.

So, very much up and down. Feeling good about myself at the moment, but also so much sadness. Just need to ensure I keep my exercise and eating up, and keep on top of things. Also gutted I am going to miss the basketball grand finals! Just realised I hadn't actually written about this! We won our finals game so now in the grand finals! And we weren't even supposed to make the playoffs. Our team is amazing!