tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41764339569670845812024-03-18T22:48:25.690-04:00Indianapolis Go Red BetterU Challengepresented by St.Vincent Heart Center of IndianaAmerican Heart Associationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14218756990396302138noreply@blogger.comBlogger167125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-25393673030445752982012-03-22T14:58:00.000-04:002012-03-22T14:58:01.135-04:00BetterU VideoWow! This 12 weeks has gone fast. Only one week to go. Here's the video that was shown at the Go Red For Women Luncheon in February.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/md4YjBnRvvg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>American Heart Associationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14218756990396302138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-44206087299161689402012-03-08T12:30:00.002-05:002012-03-08T12:30:58.717-05:00Newspaper ArticleMy local newspaper did a little story on me that was in today's edition. Feels kind of weird to see myself in print! Click below to read the story!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTdiojywTn3bA6JeJ0xVoF8PhAj-8Y4EDWKLXTZvT-TpQudInD7ZlBddMLea_4BkucvE2GdEFTtMovCsCbgvbnS0sNlUGLYXrSdbYp8rI3ptgvmrzymtj40SgtpHLfFprNvrAE1yiGZBpM/s1600/bilde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTdiojywTn3bA6JeJ0xVoF8PhAj-8Y4EDWKLXTZvT-TpQudInD7ZlBddMLea_4BkucvE2GdEFTtMovCsCbgvbnS0sNlUGLYXrSdbYp8rI3ptgvmrzymtj40SgtpHLfFprNvrAE1yiGZBpM/s320/bilde.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15px; text-align: left;">Molly Day works out with her personal trainer Amanda Kenney<br /> at the Yorktown YMCA on Feb. 24. / Ashley L. Conti / The Yorktown Press</span>
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<a href="http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20120308/YOURTOWNS01/203080302/Yorktown-woman-works-get-healthy?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Frontpage%20DontMiss|p">http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20120308/YOURTOWNS01/203080302/Yorktown-woman-works-get-healthy?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Frontpage%20DontMiss|p</a>
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<br />Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07057043409625147554noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-11992478019209046382012-03-03T15:04:00.004-05:002012-03-03T15:32:57.811-05:00Time of Reflection<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguPY8izaM8yXswH-tWA9AHrxM2JUJ8hrblZdawkU4u8ukIeML4Dri7ZfFaueaUtTl9GNNja4LjVw5Qe1iPoqy8r3OXV4xsuzQxkYESC4Gwe_Y7Zyimx59OtmUIP8aWLhBMBzZ8FX2nQrQM/s1600/404832_2877771862049_1192587476_32400852_1981906420_n.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 112px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguPY8izaM8yXswH-tWA9AHrxM2JUJ8hrblZdawkU4u8ukIeML4Dri7ZfFaueaUtTl9GNNja4LjVw5Qe1iPoqy8r3OXV4xsuzQxkYESC4Gwe_Y7Zyimx59OtmUIP8aWLhBMBzZ8FX2nQrQM/s200/404832_2877771862049_1192587476_32400852_1981906420_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715771359709673250" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5YuZdOKWnkaXWyqFiUVt0rUSP8zvaNqnvfpRUs1YNV9bJAJHh8HhMwl9iGeb7cXMHz66LqomPAJvD32BxHnF20Z_HA6-PbG1jd_LYIO12qRuXp4LFy4xaXoXsurXoNWoH6Dz7Ouh_RkWs/s1600/bildeCA4ILNIV.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 140px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5YuZdOKWnkaXWyqFiUVt0rUSP8zvaNqnvfpRUs1YNV9bJAJHh8HhMwl9iGeb7cXMHz66LqomPAJvD32BxHnF20Z_HA6-PbG1jd_LYIO12qRuXp4LFy4xaXoXsurXoNWoH6Dz7Ouh_RkWs/s200/bildeCA4ILNIV.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715771081858147106" /></a><br />It's been a whirlwind of knowledge, opportunities and craziness at times for me but I tell you one thing I wouldn't change a thing.<br /><br />The mere thought of putting myself out there and people following my progress freaks me out a little but if I can be an inspiration to someone else and reach someone to open up their eyes and ears and realize that this thing call HEART DISEASE can strike the healthiest of people and the simple changes you can do to protect your heart and get healthy then I've served my purpose!<br /><br />I'm not just on this journey for the 12 weeks they say in the program, I'm realistic in saying that its a lifestyle change I'm committed to for the LONG HAUL and I'm doing my darnest to get off this high blood pressure medicine and bonus if I lose the weight along the way that I've struggled with for most of my adult life.<br /><br />Seeing changes in myself physically (having to buy smaller clothes, yea!), emotionally (learning what my triggers are and how to best react or devert to situations),and my confidence level is rising.<br /><br />One of the coolest things was being able to be a part of the GoRedForWomen Luncheon that was held on Feb. 17th, in Downtown Indy at the beautiful JW Marriott.<br /><br />I was fortunate to have my dear friend an a breast cancer survivor, Tammy Culbertson came as my guest for the event. Never saw so many beautiful women, all shapes and sizes all decked out in their RED outfits all fired up and focused on the purpose to raise money and awareness of Heart Disease in women! <br /><br />There was many seminars to check out as well wide range of vendors, from hospitals, to grocery stores, handing out various samples of food, and paper work all focused on HEART Health. There was even mini screening area too. We even got a SWAG bag of free stuff too! Who doesn't LOVE FREE stuff!?! I enjoyed hearing from one of the CardioThrorasic Surgeons and how heart disease has affected his family.<br /><br />Even Tammy said how she even learned something about heart disease and how it relates to diabetes and overall health. <br /><br />The luncheon/program and fashion show was a whirlwind, it went by too fast!<br /><br />I was nervous wreck about changing into my fashion show clothes then sitting in them at the table and eating lunch!(for those who know, you know WHY! I managed to NOT get anything on me,that is a feat of its own!)Then, we had to head behind the curtain to as they started the program and it was weird to see myself up on the big screen talking in the presentation... (was told I was in it a "little bit" ha, ha!!! it was ALOT!, I didn't remember some of the questions that were asked back at the kick off breakfast but I did pretty good! <br /><br />Then it was "deer in headlights time",getting up on that stage, waiting for my queue then looking out into the audience going uh oh no everyone is looking at ME!!! don't fall, don't trip, smile, is there something in my teeth?? is your zipper up? is your shirt down, now what do I do with this purse??? random things like that.. I must say we all ROCKED the catwalk ladies!!! Laura we missed you dearly but so excited you kicked that smoking habit,oh yea!<br /><br />Did you know that this event is the largest one in the country??<br />They RAISED $594,000 at the event as well! How incredible is that??<br /><br />I can't thank the American Heart Association Midwest Affiliate staff enough for letting us be a part of this great event, it was truly an honor!<br /><br />Being in the Sunday paper was also a big honor. Renee, Ruthann and I were featured in the paper and the photoshoot was a blast wasn't sure what pics they'd choose lol.<br /><br />In case you missed it, here's the link: <br />http://www.indystar.com/article/20120219/LIVING01/202190307/3-women-take-up-Go-Red-BetterU-Challenge-improve-their-heart-health<br /><br />The response from the article along has been great!, I've had numerous coworkers come up to me asking for my autograph and encourage me and some have also said they've checked out the site to see if they are at risk and are making heart healthy choice. <br /><br />Are you worth it? YOU KNOW YOU ARE, There's only one you so do everything you can to live your life heart healthy!Pamelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08310714101733676629noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-56701399909348141892012-02-29T19:25:00.002-05:002012-02-29T19:27:28.730-05:00GO RED LUNCHEON<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2EzRiOz49b6ojA_G7XCvVf2QkBka3EncRGHO5N3pDxPxAXqyUtCk2VAKAAIdNJ20Sv_vZLqzUlvZ-PK8jm8b4fpf-tinep6bdZeg3sm3TVzqUp8dqlaWjRhate6qWmV89X7rt-p6cYOI/s1600/julie+and+jody+pic.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 98px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2EzRiOz49b6ojA_G7XCvVf2QkBka3EncRGHO5N3pDxPxAXqyUtCk2VAKAAIdNJ20Sv_vZLqzUlvZ-PK8jm8b4fpf-tinep6bdZeg3sm3TVzqUp8dqlaWjRhate6qWmV89X7rt-p6cYOI/s320/julie+and+jody+pic.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714718689972017538" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU23uNen75bWg4AY3qVT_zxTWxYdj1CNy1lYDkBKFMX_1yP_AEv2Im5JTz9AizCyAbnI9w11sUCHFXvXGmzmDoCig_CRt3_DNYvLDOV1LLSQI4Hb3Ri_f0mwYH70vK8gudkujYEkN0J1w/s1600/GO+RED+FREE+STUFF+006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU23uNen75bWg4AY3qVT_zxTWxYdj1CNy1lYDkBKFMX_1yP_AEv2Im5JTz9AizCyAbnI9w11sUCHFXvXGmzmDoCig_CRt3_DNYvLDOV1LLSQI4Hb3Ri_f0mwYH70vK8gudkujYEkN0J1w/s320/GO+RED+FREE+STUFF+006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714718685893032690" /></a><br />If you didn't attend the luncheon, you missed out! It was fabulous! It was a sea of red, and what a beautiful sight it was! It was so much fun. We did miss one of our fellow challengers, Laura, due to illness. My only complaint, the time went by too fast! I didn't get to do everything i wanted to. There was some fabulous art work on display, and time just didn't permit for me to browse and admire them all. <br /><br />I got my makeup done! Sweet! There were hair stylists there as well. My friend, Jody Lee, accompanied me to the luncheon. We were sure to hit up the photo booth in the Love Your Heart Lounge, and we love our pics! I posted the pics and included a photo of all the free stuff we received! I got a foot thing done, not exactly a massage, but the exact term is escaping me, but it was fabulous. My friend got a neck massage that she loved! I saw a belly dancer giving a demonstration! How cool! What a fun way to do your heart some good! And free stuff! We got some amazing free stuff! Pacer tickets for one thing! Can you believe that I've never been to a Pacer game? Well that's about to change! I got a really cool exercise band that can give you quite a workout. I was freaking out because I left my house without my hair brush. And what do you know, they were giving hair brushs away! The hair Gods had my back! <br /><br />I have to admit I was too nervous to eat my lunch, because we had to take the stage and strut our stuff on the catwalk. However, you best believe I ate the fabulous chocolate cake that I believe was only 250 calories and divine! Who says you can't have your cake and eat it too? lol Julie Schnieder of St. Vincent Center For Womens Health and Anne Marie Tiernon of WTHR did a fabulous job, and put us at ease. Though I felt very much out of my comfort zone being on stage in front of 1,000 people, but I made it thru without falling and even rocked a red feather boa with my Macys outfit and accessories. And I have to mention Brea Carlson, her story was so touching. And this my friend, is what it's all about. Saving lives, so that another young girl isn't left motherless due to a cardiovascular event that could possibly be prevented.<br /><br />Tim Harms and Julie Petr of The American Heart Assocation were on hand, and they are always so supportive and full of encouragment. Tims wife was kind enough to help us backstage and make sure we didn't miss our cue. <br /><br />I ran into one of my favorite people, Adrienne D'Angelo from St. Vincent Center For Womens Health. She is like a walking encyclopedia, full of knowledge I tell you! She explains things in a way that makes sense to even me! Now, if she could just explain one of my radiology classes to me, Radiation Physics, life would be good! <br /><br />Love your heart,<br />JulieJulie Burtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05921602327837116211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-26583757486360994872012-02-27T10:26:00.001-05:002012-02-27T10:29:49.921-05:00Sharing ProgressI sure missed seeing all of my fellow challengers and attending the annual event!!!! I hope someone took some pictures so that I can see each of you decked out for the fashion show. I saw Renee on TV and the beautiful spread in the Sunday Indianapolis Star -- each of you looked fabulous!!<br />
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Well -- a little update on my progress in this challenge. I have really cleared out my kitchen and have wonderfully healthy choices of food available (although I know there is some emergency pasta still tucked in there somewhere!!). Some big news from me -- I visited my physician for an annual exam last week, and here are my lipid panel results!!!!!!!!!<br />
2011 Cholesterol: 224 February 2012 Cholesterol: 129<br />
2011 Triglycerides: 236 February 2012 Triglycerides: 79<br />
2011 HDL: 45 February 2012 HDL: 47<br />
2011 LDL: 122 February 2012 LDL: 68<br />
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I am totally bowled over by the results!!!!! Just look at the difference in the triglycerides (that level can be deadly!!!), and the LDL!!!! All I can say is -- this is living proof that simple changes in food choices absolutely can make a dramatic difference in these critical lipid levels AND prevent killer coronary artery disease!!! I hope that this will be convincing proof for any of you out there who are trying to make changes in your lifestyle to prevent heart disease (and other major artery disease).<br />
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So what made the big difference in my levels?? Well -- I am convinced that because I cut out pasta and bread from my diet (yes -- these were all I ate day after day for years!!) -- my triglyceride levels took a dive. Remember that extra empty carbohydrates are stored as FAT. Otherwise -- I have followed the sage advice from Adrienne -- she is at the top of my list of one of my all time favorite people in life -- I learned so much from her about diet!!! I have been limiting fat intake to about 25 grams per day, and replacing any empty carbohydrates with more complex carbohydrates! That is it! By the way -- just can't rave enough about the St. Vincent Heart Center and the American Heart Association!!!! They are going above and beyond to help women change the course and current sad statistics about killer heart disease in this country!!! If any of you readers following along would like to know how to contact and set up consultation with Adrienne -- just respond to my blog!! Or for any information about St. Vincent Women's Health center!!!<br />
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I am really finding that taking small steps in choosing lifestyle changes to promote health result in immediate changes in how one feels and looks -- and I can't emphasize enough that as you begin to make changes -- your results will end up producing exceeding motivation to stay on the course longterm!!!!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03382720706776279436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-65508657648319362232012-02-20T09:27:00.001-05:002012-02-20T09:27:14.904-05:00Ladies ShineThe BetterU ladies looked amazing Friday at the annual Go Red For Women Luncheon. They really flourished in the spotlight and made a huge impact on the 1,000 women in attendance.<br />
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The media have also taken notice.<br />
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Three challengers were included in Sunday's <a href="http://www.indystar.com/article/20120219/LIVING01/202190307/3-women-take-up-Go-Red-BetterU-Challenge-improve-their-heart-health?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|IndyStar.com|p" target="_blank">Indianapolis Star</a>, and Renee Jones was part of a story on <a href="http://www.theindychannel.com/health/30476250/detail.html" target="_blank">WRTV-6</a>.American Heart Associationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14218756990396302138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-82974069246766702442012-02-18T11:59:00.000-05:002012-02-18T11:59:04.784-05:00LuncheonOh my goodness, what a fabulous time. If you weren't a part of the 2012 Go Red for Women Luncheon at the J.W. Marriott yesterday, you missed out. There were so many people giving out freebies!! (I am a freebie junkie!) Amazing people doing amazing things for women. The luncheon was emceed by Anne Marie Tiernon who is a beautiful individual! Six of the 7 challengers were there modeling (we missed poor Laura who was sick!) We modeled our fabulous clothes from Macys.<br />
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I'll share more details soon but thank you to all involved in the American Heart Association for treating us to that!Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07057043409625147554noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-84156690740082863562012-02-14T21:38:00.000-05:002012-02-14T21:39:21.279-05:00Meltdown Monday and Terrific Tuesday!Well, I'm not exactly proud of it, but i had a complete meltdown two Mondays ago. I did the Power Circuit Class and Rock Hard Ab Class at my gym. It was so hard to keep up with the group. I couldn't hold a candle to these women, and some of them had a good 15 years on me! However, they could not have been kinder to me. They were very encouraging and supportive. They told me to not give up and it will get easier in time, and they were impressed that I stuck it out. I've never felt so inadequate in my life! This leads me to my emotional feelings, I am beyond angry right now. Before being in the car accident, I would have been able to at least hold my own, no problem. However now, that is not my reality. Everything i do feels ten times harder. I get so frustrated. But its ok. Sometimes you just have to have a meltdown and let it out, then you can move on.<br /><br />Fast forward to today. I did 75 minutes on the treadmill walking at a good pace. Now for the fabulous part. I ran for 2 minutes of those 75 minutes! 2 whole minutes! I know you are probably thinking 2 minutes, what's the big freakin deal? As I've mentioned before, I was hit by a drunk driver. This is the first time since the accident, in nearly 14 years, that I have been able to run. Let me tell you, it felt like I won the lottery! If I ran 2 minutes today, then maybe I can run 3 tomorrow, and 4 the next. My back must be getting stronger, and hopefully the discs will hold up. I was advised by the back surgeon against running. But I am hopeful that things are taking a positive turn. I am taking steroids for my recent foot surgery, and it must be helping my back as well. I can't take much of the credit. I know God is right there pulling the strings. But what a great Valentines Day present to me!<br /><br />Love your ♥,<br /><br />JulieJulie Burtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05921602327837116211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-47437902170157063132012-02-09T17:52:00.002-05:002012-02-09T17:52:48.618-05:00Plugging alongJust checking in to share my progress. Over the last 4 weeks, I've lost about 8 pounds which I'm happy with. I have been doing my twice a week personal training sessions and then 3 days a week of either elliptical, cycling class, or treadmill. I also am doing an at home stability ball workout when I can work it in. I'm tracking my food on an amazing site called My Fitness Pal as well as tracking my calories burned via my Bodybugg (as seen on The Biggest Loser) I feel like a science experiment!<br />
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That's about all I know for now. Other than I'm sore. Really sore.Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07057043409625147554noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-34662896559178919172012-02-08T11:23:00.002-05:002012-02-08T11:59:16.915-05:00Slow and steady wins the race!I admit there have been days I've just wanted to throw my hands up and give up but no matter what to vent and get myself refocused on the bigger picture, and for that I THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart!! :0)<br /><br />With all the walking and excercise of volunteering, enjoying the everything that Indy provided in Superbowl Village, I know MORE than walked 10,000 steps a day there and kept my water intake and even found healthy choices to eat there too!<br />My workout schedule was modified with the schedules but I still found time to rest and recover, well sort of lol.<br /><br />I was so excited about meeting with Cheryl Kinsbury this past Monday!<br />We talked about what I wanted to get out of this whole experience and especially with my exercise plan. We did a all over body workout in 30 minutes! They were simple exercises and used stability ball and bands and a universal machine and its amazing how you can tweek a few positions and get more bang for your buck!<br /><br />I don't have to go to the extreme and put myself in harms way to accomplish the goal just got to make sure my exercise is CHALLENGING for me and add the variety so it causes your muscles to respond accordingly.(Cheryl you were right!, the next day I was thinking of you when certain parts of my body achy but it was in a GOOD way THANKS!)<br /><br />I'm looking forward to meeting Nancy @ Macy's this week to select clothes for the Fashion Show for the GoRedForWomenLuncheon coming up (gasp) NEXT WEEK!!! <br />(that should be fun, scary and exciting all in one for sure!)<br /><br />Here's something to think about , How much SALT do you consume in a day?<br />I know I've got friends and family that LOVE that SALT, I don't cook with it, don't season with it, I use Ms.Dash love the stuff!<br />Watch what you are eating, read those labels, and if you are cooking DON'T season the food with it! Your HEART will thank you for it!<br /><br />Here's link for more details on Salt... KNOWLEDGE is POWER!<br /><br />http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm61e0207a1.htm?s_cid=mm61e0207a1_e<br /><br /><br />Have a great week!Pamelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08310714101733676629noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-9449563336344469862012-02-06T10:18:00.000-05:002012-02-06T10:18:11.239-05:00Semi-Controlled Cheat MealWell, I must say, Superbowl Sunday has been one of my biggest challenges!! I ate a WHOLE pizza! Not sure I should be publicizing that fact! We made homemade pizza -- rolled out the crust superthin and topped with lowfat mozarella and feta, and lots of cauliflower, broccoli, mushrooms, chicken breast, carmelized onions, and homemade (no fat) pizza sauce. YUM! Oh, and sipped liberally on Bailey's. Okay, so that all probably falls right off the semi-controlled radar and into a totally uncontrolled cheat meal!<br />
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Okay -- well back on the path today! And here is some very positive news. When I saw Julie Schnieders and had my cholesterol checked on Jan. 13 -- I had a cholesterol of 220. I just donated blood last week on Feb. 1 -- when you donate blood, they automatically do a complementary cholesterol for you, and post it on their website. My cholesterol on Feb. 1 was 155!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sit up and take notice! Following a heart healthy diet can make a significant difference in cholesterol levels (and likely all other components of the lipid panel). These are results I am seeing by following Adrienne's recommendations for weight loss -- sticking to 25 grams of fat a day. Love it, love it, love it!!!!!!!!! I am going to be off cholesterol lowering medication in no time!!!!!!!!!!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03382720706776279436noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-90531142897291457182012-02-05T16:39:00.004-05:002012-02-05T17:04:24.766-05:00HAPPY SUPERBOWL DAY!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWlpr5y7p_4LqPZtQFgGsvkn5uOh_upNZsyomd8YPDtXDazDPbgM4ZfQ6G7CwQwvwdr5I5a688OUDI0u1ImlJZDxQxqQhfYJHt6aW9vHEfqWWlzW_ixorKSZ2hcJgHcGn7QHuTKtLH-eK/s1600/016.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWlpr5y7p_4LqPZtQFgGsvkn5uOh_upNZsyomd8YPDtXDazDPbgM4ZfQ6G7CwQwvwdr5I5a688OUDI0u1ImlJZDxQxqQhfYJHt6aW9vHEfqWWlzW_ixorKSZ2hcJgHcGn7QHuTKtLH-eK/s320/016.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5705774173474127778" /></a><br />HAPPY SUPERBOWL DAY! No heart stoppin, artery cloggin, kill ya & put ya 6 feet under and add 6 inches to your waistline food here! Only heart healthy, low-fat and FABULOUS! I made Skinny Potato Skins, Oven Baked Boneless Spicy Buffalo Chicken "Wings", Buffalo Chicken Hot Wing Dip, Baked Zucchini Sticks, with lite ranch dressing, celery and red peppers...YUM!<br /><br />Love your ♥,<br /><br />JulieJulie Burtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05921602327837116211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-34897146531351642552012-02-05T11:03:00.002-05:002012-02-05T11:03:33.170-05:00Pampering, party of 1One of the (many) benefits of being a Better U Challenger was that we all received a gift certificate for a facial with Davina and a massage with Pam at St. Vincent Women's Center in Fishers. I had never had a facial in my life. It was very different than what I expected. I thought it would be a solid hour of mind numbing luxury. And while there was some mind numbing luxury, there was also some pinching, scraping, and plucking. HOWEVER, it wasn't bad and it when it was over, my skin was never more smooth or clean! I must say I am not of the high maintenance skin care regimen mindset, instead usually just washing my face with water before I go to bed. (I use cleanser when I'm feeling particularly decadent) But Davina definitely changed my mind about that. She describes good skin care as prevention against skin cancer, wrinkles, and other issues in old age much like eating healthy and exercising as prevention against heart disease!! Although I don't know if my budget can handle the once every 28 days visit that Davina suggests, I definitely don't think that facial will be my last!<br />
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After my facial, I moved on to my massage. Wow. Apparently, I carry a lot of tension in my back and shoulders and Pam found it and got rid of it. She even told me to drink a lot of water afterwards because she was releasing so many toxins that I would need it. She had to have been on to something too because later that day, after not getting to drink much water yet, I was starting to feel a little less than well. I remembered what she said, got some water and within about 30 minutes, was feeling better! My only complaint about the massage was it wasn't nearly long enough!!! I could have stayed there all day. <br />
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After my morning of pampering, I headed to the Indianapolis Women's Center to meet with Cheryl Kingsbury for an exercise consultation. She is amazing. She had created an entire workout for me based on me telling her that I had a stability ball at my house. I had a great workout and learned A TON of things I can use to workout on my own. I don't even have to go anywhere to do it! I can do it right from the comfort of my own living room...while watching TV! How hard is that?!<br />
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Last but not least, I met with Kristen Welch, one of the amazing dieticians who had also taken us on a grocery store tour the night before. My mind is swimming with new and fabulous information and things I had never heard of or knew to pay attention to. Since this challenge began, I had been a little frustrated with how sloooooowly I was losing any real weight. I am confident I'm getting healthier, but I wanted to lose some poundage too!! Kristen said she knew the answer and gave me a plan of attack. I am confident it will work and I'm excited to see the results!<br />
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What an amazing day I had!Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07057043409625147554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-81548539203396323242012-02-01T08:57:00.002-05:002012-02-01T08:57:46.022-05:00BetterU Story in Today's Indy StarToday marks the start of American Heart Month. There's a special 8-page section in today's Indianapolis Star that includes a story about the BetterU Challenge. Be sure to pick up a copy to read that story and all of the other stories that will not only inspire you but give you tips and resources for better heart health.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyuH7HRc10UDnULodkyR5fEO_9lG-AEjSHSvDHPWbtpXnxO2M7lTUk6842Y62ayOGOzkIungLq49qSW4sc-c1FaOr9SgLiEtVV3Dr51Ns9rR1aXyEsMe8P-8IvKbd-wWJWGpvsIxtJ9II/s1600/Cover+photo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyuH7HRc10UDnULodkyR5fEO_9lG-AEjSHSvDHPWbtpXnxO2M7lTUk6842Y62ayOGOzkIungLq49qSW4sc-c1FaOr9SgLiEtVV3Dr51Ns9rR1aXyEsMe8P-8IvKbd-wWJWGpvsIxtJ9II/s320/Cover+photo.png" width="250" /></a></div>American Heart Associationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14218756990396302138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-6157002980767496202012-01-31T19:55:00.000-05:002012-01-31T19:55:33.567-05:00Moving Right AlongFinally made it out to the YMCA!! Can't meet with a wellness consultant for a couple weeks -- they are booked with appointments (that's a good thing, Indianapolis!!). Fitness centers sure have changed since I had a membership over 20 years ago!! Lots of really fancy equipment AND you can watch TV right on many of the machines! I did some interval programs on an incline elliptical-type machine for an hour and then attended a class called cardio circuit -- it was wonderful!!! I am really starting to feel those endorphins kick in now when I exercise!! Can't wait to meet with the wellness consultant to get a good work out plan going! Oh, and I just may jump in the pool for some deep water aerobics -- who would have thought??? I haven't been swimming in a long, long time -- but sure love it -- and I know I am going to try it!!!! (as long as NOBODY can see me in swimwear :-) oh -- and they also have a class in the water called "water zumba" -- now we are talking fun exercise!<br />
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I still can't believe I got chosen for this challenge!!!! I needed this desperately!!! I have gotten such a good start on healthier habits, and best of all -- every day sticking to wiser diet choices AND exercise is having an exponential effect on my positive motivation! Am feeling very confident that these will be LONG TERM lifestyle changes. I also want to get more involved in spreading this good news and all of the education we have received in this program!<br />
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One last very important event has occurred in my life. I QUIT SMOKING!!!! All I can say is -- thank you deeply and sincerely Julie Schnieders -- for reaching out to help me face this head on as the biggest priority -- and thank you, THANK YOU American Heart Association for creating Go Red for Women and the Better U program. Your persistence and confidence has changed my life where I was falling far short and would not have moved forward like this on my own without your much-needed the support.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03382720706776279436noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-71559270151120220162012-01-31T12:19:00.001-05:002012-01-31T12:19:27.210-05:00Wear Red on February 3!Did you know that this Friday, February 3 is the National Wear Red Day? By wearing red on Friday, you are helping to spread the word that Heart Disease is the number one killer of women. So plan ahead, make sure your favorite red sweater is clean...or break out your red velour jogging suit!! Either way, plan now to wear red on Friday and tell everyone you see to check out www.goredforwomen.org!Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07057043409625147554noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-18746305795944708922012-01-29T16:34:00.001-05:002012-01-29T16:34:36.760-05:00Getting focusedI took my exercise schedule up a notch by adding a new aerobics class on Wednesdays. Last Wednesday was the second week of the class and my body has not adjusted. ( I now have two - one hour exercise classes on Wednesdays.) No aches or pains, I'm just tired. Am I overdoing it? On Monday I will meet with the fitness consultant at the St. Vincent Women's Hospital. This should give me insight into what I need to change or add to my fitness program. Are my "random acts of kindness to my body" working?<br />
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After meeting with my primary care doctor last Thursday for a regular checkup, I am proud to have received a clean bill of health, with the ongoing exception of the bad cholesterol. It's improving but not fast enough. I'm using the meds now. <br />
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I'm sharing this with you because the exercise, healthy eating, and weight loss are all paying off. The journey has it's rewards and challenges. Last week I went shopping for a new pair of jeans. You know what a challenge that is. Well, I found a pair that had a nice fit and looked good on, but when I took the jeans off and looked at them as I held them up, I was surprised. The jeans looked too small. Could<strong> I </strong>really have fit into those jeans? The feeling was great and one of many discoveries on this journey. <br />
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There can be a tendency, however, that after one accomplishment you let down your guard - you can't. Staying focused is even more important. Last Saturday, (and I was wearing those new jeans) I let down my guard with an over the top "cheat treat" but my body let me know I had slipped. I had thought I "deserved" a award when the real award is the return to a healthy weight and life style. We slip but we must get back on the road.<br />
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Getting focused and staying focused are key components of the journey. Each day I have found it important to stop and reflect on the day's journey. One step at a time, one day at a time. <br />
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I too am a foodoholic but the healthy life style change is in the driver seat.<br />
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Renee Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08581145935447348054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-7180815058230291652012-01-26T12:55:00.001-05:002012-01-26T12:55:19.307-05:00Feel the burn!After 2 personal training sessions, I have to say I'm feeling the burn. Literally. <br />
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Every single part of my body hurts. I hurt in places I didn't know it was possible to hurt in. It is a good pain though because that means I'm doing something! My eating has been a lot healthier. I keep hearing Adrienne's words ringing through my ears "Eat for health first and taste second." That seems so strange. I've ALWAYS eaten for taste first. Amazingly, though, I've found many things that are both healthy AND tasty so my challenge has been figuring out how to incorporate them into my daily diet. I've noticed I can serve healthier choices at meals and my kids don't throw a fit. At last night's dinner, I didn't have a side dish to go with our main dish. Ordinarily I would have fixed a box mix of potatoes or macaroni and cheese or something equally as unhealthy. Instead, I served cut up vegetables with light ranch dressing. They loved it!! I was shocked!<br />
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Guess that's one more excuse I can't use anymore!!!!Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07057043409625147554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-5121197616100223882012-01-24T11:07:00.004-05:002012-01-25T16:00:27.016-05:00This is me!I guess since we are over two weeks into the challenge, I should give a little background on myself. My name is Julie, and I am 42, overweight, with high blood pressure & cholesterol. I have had high blood pressure since the age of 14. It was diagnosed when I went in for a physical for basketball. I wasn't overweight at the time, but both of my parents of high blood pressure so it was determined to be more of a hereditary issue. I've had high cholesterol for about a year. I was in denial when the test came back, and I actually had my Doctor run it again, but after 9 weeks of watching my food intake and exercise, it was still high.<br /><br />Fast forward to age 28. I was still in great shape at that point. But on Labor Day weekend, I was hit by a drunk driver. (Let me just say, seat belts save lives, I am living proof!) Up to that point, I hit the gym at least 3-4 times a week, did aerobics, and I would jog quite a bit and was very active. Then, after the car accident, I couldn't even brush my teeth without assistance, let alone go to the gym or run. Talk about a humbling experience! I would have sold my soul to the devil to make the pain go away or to go back in time and not have been on the road that day. Even saying that, I am one of the lucky ones. I wasn't paralyzed nor did I end up six feet under. I went through over 2 years of physical therapy. I'm fortunate to have recovered to the physical state that I am in today. I tried everything, acupuncture, yoga, steroids, spinal injections, different concoctions of cure all juices! (Yes, I said "cure all juice", I was that desperate.) In July of 2010 I finally had back surgery, and the pain is so much better than it was. However, during that 13 plus years of inactivity from an injured back and poor food choices, I packed on a hefty 100 pounds. I cringe when I verbalize that....100 POUNDS!<br /><br />Today, I choose to take control of my life and health back! You have to play the hand you've been dealt, no matter how unfair that hand seems. I can't change what happened to me, but I certainly have control of the choices I make today for my health. I would be lying if I said I just want to be healthy. I mean I want to be healthy, but lets keep this real...I want to look good too, and I mean real good! I want to find those long lost abs, lean and muscular body that once was.<br /><br />That's me in a nutshell! I am embracing this Go Red BetterU Challenge. It's truly a blessing!<br /><br />Love your ♥,<br />JulieJulie Burtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05921602327837116211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-89108976515314555412012-01-24T07:54:00.001-05:002012-01-24T07:54:20.091-05:00Keep up the good workLadies,<br />
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It's been so exciting to read all of your blog posts as you've started the challenge. Keep up the good work.American Heart Associationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14218756990396302138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-77747587405017337532012-01-23T20:27:00.002-05:002012-01-23T20:28:53.019-05:00OuchSo I (ouch) had my first ever (ow) personal training session tonight (ouch)! It was REALLY (ouch) COOL!<br />
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Oh sorry, it hurts when I blink.<br />
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Just kidding, it isn't QUITE that bad but close. It really was neat. I wore my heart rate monitor and I never dropped below 125 beats per minute even when not doing cardio. When doing serious cardio, I hit 170 a couple times. I mostly appreciated having someone watching me who wouldn't let me quit when I was getting tired. The most painful portion was when I had to do <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxiGxyswNsA" target="_blank">plyometric lunges</a> for 30 seconds followed by hopping on one leg twice, the other leg twice and then 2 plyo lunges for 30 seconds. It got to the point where when trying to hop on one leg, I literally could. not. get. my foot off the ground!!! I just kind of stood on one leg and moved my body up and down. I'm sure I looked ever so coordinated!!!<br />
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All in all, I'm really looking forward to the next session! My assignment for tomorrow (assuming I'm not in traction tomorrow morning) is to do 30 minutes on the elliptical to get my muscles warmed up and stretched out before Wednesdays next personal training session.Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07057043409625147554noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-26526638914083465962012-01-22T17:47:00.001-05:002012-01-22T17:47:48.469-05:002 weeks down...10 to goWell, I'm at the start of week 3 and I've seen some success and also had some setbacks. Let me start off with one thing...<br />
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Hello. My name is Molly and I am addicted to food.<br />
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I have always kind of known this to some extent. But, now that I have been consistently eating what I'm supposed to eat for 14 days, I realize how much I had relied on food up until now. I just flat out want to eat. all. of. the. time. Why is that?! Why would I want to eat when I'm not even hungry? What is it about getting in the car to go somewhere that makes me think I need to drive through and get something from somewhere like Pavlov's dogs and their bells? I may never know the answers to these questions but at least I know it about myself and knowledge is power!<br />
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Or ignorance is bliss. One or the other.<br />
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Either way, as I start week 3, I'm looking forward to beginning my first ever sessions with a personal trainer!!! Tomorrow afternoon, I will have my very first meeting and I am so very excited. My trainer is someone I already know so I'm already comfortable with her. I need her to hold me accountable to my exercise regimen and I know she will. Just having someone there who won't let me quit after 5 minutes is comforting.<br />
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I also assume it's going to be comforting to have a large bottle of ibuprofen on hand this time tomorrow night.Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07057043409625147554noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-57724538175361854272012-01-22T14:59:00.001-05:002012-01-22T15:01:45.763-05:00In the Midst of the ChallengeJust wondering how my fellow challengers are doing as we conclude Week 2 of this journey........ sure hope all of you are seeing and feeling some of the results of your efforts. I am feeling SO GOOD, with the dietary and exercise changes so far. All of my large skeletal muscles have "woken up" and realized that they are all being called on to strengthen and burn some fuel once they become increasingly toned!!! Hopefully, the muscles will start to draw off my load of excess fat, once they realize they are not going to get any extra calories from my diet!!!!!<br />
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Well, this week I blew up my oatmeal in the microwave one day before work. All over the top and bottom of the microwave. My nicely portioned allotment for the morning....... The next day, the VCR "ate" my most favorite exercise video -- one I have gone back to over and over in the last 20 years!! If I didn't know any better, I would think there is some kind of invading alien force plotting to interfere with my Better U efforts here........<br />
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Found an incredible snack or meal food that holds me from <u>any hunger</u> for hours and hours....and hours!!!! I have done this for a <b><u>meal</u></b> on a few different days this week: 1/2 cup Greek yogurt + 3/4 cup granola. I get an *ultimate* response from my metabolism to this combination. I have used the Trader Joe Greek yogurt (0% fat) -- has only 120 calories in a whole cup!!! Better yet: 22 grams protein and only 7 grams carbs. So I get some more carbs and fat from the granola -- but you see how well this balances carbs with the protein!!! I cannot recommend this combination enough -- try it and see!!<br />
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I find it difficult to find sources with enough grams of protein to equal the grams of carbs -- as was suggested by Adrienne -- but once you find that combo -- I know you will see the difference you can make in control of your appetite!!! Has anyone else found a good meal or snack plan that seems to provide this "perfect" feeling of fullness, and/or staves off any feelings of hunger indefinitely til the next meal/snack time??? Any of you readers out there?? PLEASE share!!!<br />
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My best thoughts and wishes to my fellow challengers out there, and to each of you readers following along on your own journey to better health!!! LauraLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03382720706776279436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-53040000783504697202012-01-20T09:25:00.002-05:002012-01-20T09:25:36.528-05:00Hi my friends
It has taken me 2 days to learn blogging 101..... Anyway I enjoyed meeting all of you .... What a group of motivated women.... Changes are already happening. I find myself making sure I remember my fish oil everyday!!!!! I even brought fish to eat today for work!!!!! The Better u challenge is a great program for anyone to try....check the website.... www.goredforwomen.org
Keep up the good work!!!!!
JulieJulie@3384herhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13430783664341610304noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4176433956967084581.post-43954204545462678232012-01-20T09:15:00.003-05:002012-01-20T09:15:52.714-05:00Willing myself to workoutIt is cold. There are 3-4 inches of snow on the ground. I'm sitting in my cozy clothes on the couch. My 4 year old is watching TV snuggled up in a blanket next to me. And I'm supposed to go work out? I'd much rather just go later. But, I know myself. If I don't go now, I won't go. *sigh* Maybe if I sit here a little longer I'll want to in a few more minutes.<br />
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Yeah, I doubt it too.<br />
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Ok, here I go. There is surely at least one more person going to work out right now who didn't want to as much as me! (Well, maybe not AS MUCH as me, but you understand)Mollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07057043409625147554noreply@blogger.com0