Indianapolis Go Red BetterU Challenge

Plugging along

2012-02-09T17:52:00.002-05:00

Just 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!

That's about all I know for now. Other than I'm sore. Really sore.

Slow and steady wins the race!

2012-02-08T11:23:00.002-05:00

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)

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!
My workout schedule was modified with the schedules but I still found time to rest and recover, well sort of lol.

I was so excited about meeting with Cheryl Kinsbury this past Monday!
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!

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!)

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!!!
(that should be fun, scary and exciting all in one for sure!)

Here's something to think about , How much SALT do you consume in a day?
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!
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!

Here's link for more details on Salt... KNOWLEDGE is POWER!

http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm61e0207a1.htm?s_cid=mm61e0207a1_e

Have a great week!

Semi-Controlled Cheat Meal

2012-02-06T10:18:00.000-05:00

Well, 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!

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!!!!!!!!!!

HAPPY SUPERBOWL DAY!

2012-02-05T16:39:00.004-05:00

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!

Love your ♥,

Julie

Pampering, party of 1

2012-02-05T11:03:00.002-05:00

One 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!

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.

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?!

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!

What an amazing day I had!

BetterU Story in Today's Indy Star

2012-02-01T08:57:00.002-05:00

Today 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.

Moving Right Along

2012-01-31T19:55:00.000-05:00

Finally 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!

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!

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.

Wear Red on February 3!

2012-01-31T12:19:00.001-05:00

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!

Getting focused

2012-01-29T16:34:00.001-05:00

I 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?

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.

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 I really have fit into those jeans? The feeling was great and one of many discoveries on this journey.

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.

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.

I too am a foodoholic but the healthy life style change is in the driver seat.

Renee

Feel the burn!

2012-01-26T12:55:00.001-05:00

After 2 personal training sessions, I have to say I'm feeling the burn. Literally.

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!

Guess that's one more excuse I can't use anymore!!!!

This is me!

2012-01-24T11:07:00.004-05:00

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.

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!

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.

That's me in a nutshell! I am embracing this Go Red BetterU Challenge. It's truly a blessing!

Love your ♥,
Julie

Keep up the good work

2012-01-24T07:54:00.001-05:00

Ladies,

It's been so exciting to read all of your blog posts as you've started the challenge. Keep up the good work.

Ouch

2012-01-23T20:27:00.002-05:00

So I (ouch) had my first ever (ow) personal training session tonight (ouch)! It was REALLY (ouch) COOL!

Oh sorry, it hurts when I blink.

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 plyometric lunges 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!!!

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.

2 weeks down...10 to go

2012-01-22T17:47:00.001-05:00

Well, 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...

Hello. My name is Molly and I am addicted to food.

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!

Or ignorance is bliss. One or the other.

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.

I also assume it's going to be comforting to have a large bottle of ibuprofen on hand this time tomorrow night.

In the Midst of the Challenge

2012-01-22T14:59:00.001-05:00

Just 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!!!!!

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........

Found an incredible snack or meal food that holds me from any hunger for hours and hours....and hours!!!! I have done this for a meal 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!!

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!!!

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!!! Laura

2012-01-20T09:25:00.002-05:00

Hi my friendsIt 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.orgKeep up the good work!!!!! Julie

Willing myself to workout

2012-01-20T09:15:00.003-05:00

It 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.

Yeah, I doubt it too.

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)

On the Path in Week 2

2012-01-18T17:48:00.000-05:00

      Time for a little progress report here while working on this new path. I am truly experiencing a positive difference in overall well-being at this point with the changes in diet and exercise. I met with a Greenfield Reporter (my local hometown newspaper) last week, and they had the article about me on the front page of the paper yesterday (you can go to the Greenfield Reporter and look at the archive for Jan. 17). Wow -- never thought I would appear on the front page of a newspaper -- feels really funny.
   The opportunity to meet with two women's health specialists from St. Vincent's has been a very special experience for me and my life -- I have simply never spent any time in my life in consulting a doctor about my health, because there has never been any issues to discuss (knock on wood). I have gotten a few 20 second pieces of advice on eating more fruit and fresh vegetables, but that's about it. We could not have been in the hands of any other people as phenomenal as Adrienne and Julie -- both personally and as dedicated health professionals. I am so touched by their personal attention -- they both really give it their all and go above and beyond in extending their care and knowledge. I was fairly astounded by what I learned from Adrienne -- I have been learning and teaching nutrition for the last 35 years as a nurse. I have been very active in many exercise programs, dance classes, hiking excursions, and sports the majority of my life. BUT -- I sure learned some new tricks and every minute spent with Adrienne was a gift!
   Julie did some serious work with me!! She met me right where I am at, and worked with me on a plan of attack. My cholesterol is a bit high, and my LDL is (YIKES) frightfully high --- they are a good reflection of what my eating patterns had been prior to embarking on the journey!! I could easily eat 100 grams of fat (and not the good kind) at *every* meal -- not kidding!!! Was not concerned about anything I was eating! Now I am sticking to Adrienne's suggestion of 25 grams a day. More than anything, both Julie and I did a dead focus on my smoking habit -- as being the number one priority above diet and exercise. My chances of becoming a serious women's heart statistic are very good right now. That's what I'm going to be -- just another sad statistic if I don't face this issue NOW! Well, after some discussion, Julie has started me on Chantix, and I took my first one today! That is a HUGE accomplishment for me -- because I do not take any medication unless I am dying, and it is very difficult to convince me otherwise. But I rightfully admit that I need HELP -- and I am going to give this a chance, even though I do feel bad about resorting to chemical help!!!!!
   Anyways, and again -- all of us challengers have been so blessed to be in the hands of these phenomenal health care providers!! They really have treated us so special -- and they have made a difference in my life -- not just for this three month challenge -- but for my entire journey ahead!! That's the path I am carving out on this walk, and I really look forward to reaching out and touching others' lives with some inspiration and new knowledge!

Week Two Results are in...

2012-01-17T20:05:00.002-05:00

With much nervousness, I met with Julie today to discuss my blood work results.

For starters, I knew it was going to happen sometime, I had to hop on the scale
to see that dreaded #. Much to my surprise, I saw a loss of 9 pounds since I last weighed myself. WOO HOO! Do the cabbage patch dance now ya'll lol

The results were actually pretty good too!
Triglycerides are in the normal range
Cholesterol is in the normal range
DHDL-(the GOOD HDL) is low so I gotta get that bumped up a bit.
LDL-(the BAD LDL) is high so gotta get that one down a bit.
Glucose(sugars) was little high.

Let me tell you Julie Schnieder is one AWESOME lady!
I was so thankful to know where I stand knowing that with all the information given, increasing my exercise and continuing on my journey of making better eating choices, more heart healthy all these results can be changed for the better! (Planning on getting retested after 6 months to compare).

I was then off to meet with Kristen one of the coolest dietitians to look over my results and help me tweek what I've already been doing on my own and see if that is the right path or not.

Glad I made a one on one appt with Kristen, lots of homework to go thru and help me tweek some things. Very thankful for her insight and assistance. Now I don't feel like I may be spinning my wheels so to speak.

Looking forward to our group "fieldtrip" to the grocery store and learn more!

I've been little tempted with wanting some fast food the last couple of days, certain it's due to the stress I'm feeling from work, been swamped the last couple days. But, I think I handled it well didn't totally give in went to the "golden arches" and ordered me a small fry. They didn't taste as nearly as delicious as I had in my mind they would or had before.

I'm making a grocery list of things I need to get this week and looking forward to trying the Zesty Pecan-Crusted Tilapia & Mediterranean Veggie Medley recipes that came in my packet. Will have to post pics later!

Will be hitting the gym in the morning, really makes a difference for me getting the blood pumping and shaking the sleepiness off.
If weather is decent I will be doing some walking outside.

I'm going to be breaking out my pedometer I'm curious to know how many steps I do in a day, hoping its close to 10,000 steps. If not, it's something I can work towards. The more active I am the better I will feel!

Here's some motivation that I found on the website and struck a cord with me, it's so true!

Each Woman's body is unique and each has their own health concerns.
Don't compare yourself to others, aim for your BEST HEALTH!

Pam

Sail away with me....

2012-01-17T18:05:00.001-05:00

A lot of people say their weight loss journey is like a long, overseas flight to the destination of their goal weight. I’ve decided that my weight loss journey is really more like a cruise that makes various stops on its way to the destination of my goal weight. I get on the boat and think “I’m staying on the boat, I don’t care how long it takes” and I cruise right along. Until we stop at the first port! As soon as I see the fabulous surroundings at that port, I’m off that boat and indulging faster than you can say “daily calorie allotment.” After I’ve been at the port for a while, I get tired of being that person again and climb back onto the boat, head hung in shame, vowing to do my best once again. And I do! For a while. Until I don’t want to anymore.

Lather. Rinse. Repeat.

I’ve heard it said many times that the journey is more important than the destination. I agree with that when speaking about life. However, when it comes to my weight loss journey, I’m just saying “let me be the judge!” Tell you what, I’ll just go ahead and get to my goal weight in a week or two and then let you know which I enjoyed more… the journey or the destination. I’m betting I’ll enjoy the destination a little more than I enjoyed the journey. I also bet no one who has been through it successfully would bet against me.

Having said all of that, though, something about THIS time is just different. Maybe it is the way Adrienne talked to us last week about changing our mindset. She told us that instead of worrying about calories in/calories out, think more about "what benefit will eating this _____ give me?" For example, if it is a healthy protein or a complex carbohydrate, it will benefit me by providing me longer lasting fullness and more energy. If it is a fruit or a vegetable, it will benefit me by providing my body essential nutrients to aid in digestion. If it is a big ole' honkin' bag of potato chips, it will benefit me by adding padding to my rear end in case I fall on the ice this winter. (Yeah, probably not where she was going with that) Whatever the reason, I'm appreciating my newfound ability to stay on the cruise ship and not be tempted by the ports we pass.

I'm just praying it doesn't turn out to be that cruise ship that just sunk in Italy.

Eating out made easy-plan ahead

2012-01-17T13:41:00.000-05:00

I love to cook, but I love to eat out also. Here's what is working for me; prior planning prevents poor "choices". Any given Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, following my aerobics class, the next stop is Cracker Barrel. I know what you are thinking, but it's all in the choices you make. My 81 year old exercise partner and I order from the kids menus. ( The menu states, kids of all ages.) Our order is always the country vegetable plate - two vegetables, but I always skip the biscuits and corn bread. My plate consists of a toss salad (without cheese) and green beans. The portions are large and the meal with a tip was only $5.13 including the ice tea. Sometimes I change-up and order the greens or the corn. A friend was with us today and commented, " How can you eat that without any meat"? I wanted to say to her, "It's all in what your goals are".

Tonight I'm eating out again with girlfriends for a birthday celebration. The trick here is, I chose the restaurant. I knew what health choices would be on the menu. ( When you can, take the lead and recommend places that will benefit you in term of healthy food choices.)

Last Saturday my daughter and her girlfriend took me to lunch. I planned ahead by going online to look at the menu at the restaurant. When we ordered I already know what to choose. I was mentally ready. It worked and I enjoyed every bite of my healthy choices.

I've had to work to get to this point. But this is what works for me. As we heard in class on Friday, you have to have a "cheat meal" occasionally. I was glad to hear that. I'm on the right track and it has worked for me, but I keep my eye on the prize-my goals.

Eat out, but eat smart.

Renee

Who's your "Coach Green"

2012-01-16T10:13:00.005-05:00

It's funny, the places that I'm drawing inspiration from during my Go Red BetterU Challenge. I was fortunate to be a student at Marion High School during the glory days of phenom basketball Coach Bill Green, who coached the Giants to 85, 86 & 87 state titles. He was an Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame coach with 6 state titles. He was such a great motivator and an amazing person. He gave me a piece of advice back in the day... "Never ride the wave of something great that you did yesterday, because I've slept since then. What I want to know is, what are you going to do TODAY that is great and amazing? Now show me!!"

I often hear those words of his echoing in my head. What am I going to do TODAY to fight heart disease? Just because I ate healthy and exercised yesterday, doesn't give me a free pass for today, tomorrow, and the rest of the week. Sadly, Coach Bill Green passed away recently, but his words of wisdom will live on forever. I hope that everyone has a "Coach Green" in their life, giving them inspiration and motivation! Thank you Coach Green! You will be missed.

What are you doing TODAY to improve your heart health and fight heart disease??

Love your ♥,
Julie

Keep on truckin'

2012-01-14T14:20:00.001-05:00

Well, I'm now to my first weekend on my new Better U lifestyle and last night was the first time I've had a dinner out with friends since I started. I was so very proud of my choices. One thing Adrienne discussed with us on Thursday was having a "controlled cheat" meal once a week and I did just that. We went to Applebee's and I was pleasantly surprised with the number of very healthy choices they have!!!! Nachos were ordered for the entire table and those were my "controlled cheat." Whereas, I could have very easily scarfed down the whole platter myself, I had my husband serve me out a tiny plate. We estimated that I ate about 1/4 of them (and that is probably being over-generous...it was BIG PLATE!) After I had the taste of those yummy nachos, I then had the Paradise Chicken Salad with no dressing. It is only 250 calories and I couldn't even finish the whole thing! It was delicious!

I've been keeping up with my workouts every day and tracking every single thing that goes into my body. That makes me feel like I have more control over it all.

So, nothing new or profound to add today. Just checking in with my small victories! Since this is a 3 day weekend for my kids AND my husband, it is going to be challenging to continue to eat well all weekend but I'm up for the challenge! I've already had my ONE controlled cheat meal, so from here until NEXT weekend, I'm eating well like it's my job!!

How are all of you doing??? Any restaurant favorites? Check in...especially if you aren't a challenger!!!!

We're all in this together!!!!

~Molly

I say a CHANGE will do ya good...

2012-01-13T20:01:00.003-05:00

Since my last post I've traveled back home and getting settled back into the routine of being home.

Still focused on the big picture...healthier food choices, exercise and getting sleep is key for me.

I'm trucking along with my food logs and exercise, it's finding time to make sure I get my 7pm no eating cut off that is becoming a challenge, but the final cut off for me is 8pm. Getting my mind to shut down at a decent hour so I can get a good nights sleep is too. I'm sure eventually it will work itself out too.

Oh yea, did I mention... hello my name is Pamela and I'm a chocoholic?
I've not been hankering for it but I have made it reasonable for me to have it if I want it. (mini snickers are only 45 calories, just don't eat 20 of them at a time!! LOL)

The vending machines are NO issue at work heck the only time I see them is when I go into that area to fill up my bottle for water or make a cup of hot tea.

I did get my blood drawn this morning after a 12hr fast, curious to see what Julie tells me on the results on Tuesday morning.

One highlight today was going to Seasons52 Fresh/Grill by work.
I've heard great things about it decided to check it out for lunch.

Great choices on there but darn pricey so won't be making that a regular hang out anytime soon! Highly recommend the Fish Tacos for lunch they were delicious in fact you get 3 of them and I could only finish two, go the doggie box for the third.

I'm realizing eating fresh food, not processed or fried I feel better and I don't feel like junk after I eat... WHAT A CONCEPT!?

The true test may be on Sunday afternoon when I meet with a coworker to watch some football games at a restaurant. I'm already looking over the menu and trying to plot my best strategy on that so I don't fall prey to things I shouldn't eat.

Going to end this on a high note, a co worker that hadn't seen me since me doing all this traveling since November came up to me an said " dang girlie, you have lost alot of weight since I last saw you" That took me back for a second because I haven't seen it much since November, but did thank him for noticing and told him what I'm doing and to follow my blog an the rest of the challengers too.

So I do believe a change will do ya good, slowly but surely it will fall into place.

Staying the course!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Love
Pam

Facing the facts-work harder

2012-01-13T19:01:00.001-05:00

Friday was a day for facing reality. The data was in. As part of the BetterU Challenge a base line screening of cholesterol/triglycerides and blood sugar was conducted on Jan. 5, 2012. As I sat with Julie, the nurse practitioner at St Vincent Women's Hospital, I came face to face with the real truth. We looked at my test results from September, 2011, and January 5, 2012 and saw very good improvement in both the good and bad cholesterol and blood sugar. Although I have lost 47 pounds over the last year, walk a minimum of three miles five days a week, attend exercise classes three days a week, and have made a major life style change in eating healthy foods, the bad cholesterol has not improved to the point that it is in the normal range. Both my doctor and Julie said the same thing we hear on the television commercial, "you have tried exercise, and diet and the cholesterol is still not where it should be, it's time for medication". It hurts because I thought I could do it alone without medication. ( There go the tears again. Sorry Peggy!)

Again, I want to give a very special thank you to Julie. Having a female nurse practitioner who explained the test results, listened to my question, offered sincere support and most important, raised my awareness and understanding of what is going on in my body, was a wonderful gift. She was another blessing that will help move me forward on my journey.

Facing the facts is hard, but it's reality. As they say, "the truth will set you free" - Free to make healthier choices and to work harder.

Renee

Information Overload!

2012-01-12T16:13:00.003-05:00

I just returned home from our Weight Management session with Adrienne D'Angelo and my personal consultation with St. Vincent Women's Health Center practitioner Julie Schneiders and boy is my brain tired! I have received more useful information in the last 3 hours than I have in 15 years of trying to lose and manage my weight!!!! I am so excited to put all of this into practice and eat for health! I could go on and on and on about all of the things we covered today and I'm sure what we covered was only the tip of the ice berg. (I honestly wish I could just carry Adrienne around in my pocket and have her tell me what to eat all the time!! She could just about fit right in my pocket too!)

I'm so grateful for both of these women and that they took the time out of their busy days to meet with all of us Better U Challengers! THANK YOU ADRIENNE AND JULIE!!!

**in case you're wondering, you can hear what they have to say too! Check out their blog at http://www.3384her.com/category/4-her-blog/ There are even several videos!!**

Day 3 of the Challenge......

2012-01-11T18:52:00.001-05:00

Okay -- I have eaten enough beans and fresh produce in the last few days, that I expect the public health department will be at my front door in the next couple days, to banish me to a deserted island in order to improve environmental air quality in this community..... if you get my drift (and you may want to remain upwind of me so that you don't get my drift.....). HA! But I know that one day in the very near future, I will be able to bend over and tie my shoes without cutting off my entire air supply. Yay!!!!

I am so much appreciating my fellow challengers' blogs -- I am actually burning a lot of calories just trying to keep up with the blogs!! I can really sympathize with those of you who are talking about emotional eating..... although I really don't have too much trouble adopting a diet and sticking to it, or starting to exercise more frequently. My big obstacle is to quit smoking!!! I am really in need of all the help and support I can possibly get on that account!!!

I know we all keep talking about the journey we are taking over these three months...... I am hoping that we all can start to gain some serious insight here! We are ALL attempting to go down a new path in life.....a path that we have not taken AND stayed on before in our lives. We are blazing a new trail, and I know there is a lot of undergrowth to cut through right now!! I hear some familiar sentiments coming through from my fellow challengers as we get into our travels here -- and that is trying to visualize life without things that we seem to be convinced make us very happy (lots of all the wrong kinds of food, for example). Do you believe it is possible that we could cut out a new path where we discover that different choices in life actually lead to much greater satisfaction than the current habits we persist in holding onto -- actually under some false belief that our life will seem like it has less quality if we let go of them????

I don't know about you, but I don't want to just go down a better path for three months -- I would like to know and experience what it is like to live at my maximum potential - to really know what it feels like to experience the best of physical, mental, and spiritual health. I fear that as a human race we all have veered so far off the path that we don't even give ourselves a chance to feel our bodies as they were meant to be (before processed foods -- full of chemicals, salt, refined sugar, refined flour). I think with this challenge -- it is dangling right in front of us -- to reach out and grab. LOOK at all of the support we are getting to do this!!!!

This journey is going to be a lot more than a physical/mental challenge. We are going to have to dig deeper than we ever imagined to get at the root of destructive habits -- and keep walking down a better path -- and never look back to go down the same old paths! The question is -- are we willing to do that??? I am slowly but surely feeling a growing faith and belief that this can be a reality -- not just a possibility. It's not about big drastic changes -- it's going to be a lot of letting go and burying some issues along this path we are traveling!!!

Don't you want to keep going down this path we are taking!!! There are a lot of us challengers to help each other, if we trip over something on the way.........!!! It is so very nice to know that I am not walking alone, in the dark on this one, because I want this to be one of the biggest journeys I have taken in life!!!! And it is so comforting to know there are others on this path!!

P.S. -- I have this most WONDERFUL article on why we eat what we eat -- I will give each of you a copy when I see you at our next meeting -- has a lot of ideas that you may never have considered -- and may really give you some much needed help in the days to come!!!

Let's keep moving forward, even if it's only an inch at a time!!!!!! Laura

Keep on trucking...

2012-01-10T21:52:00.003-05:00

Winding down on day 2 and feeling pretty good.
I'm thankful I managed to get thru today with few fall backs.

I forgot my water bottle at the hotel today but went to the cafeteria
and got a big bottle of water to make sure I got it in.

My logging of what I eat is still a reality check of sorts and makes me pause
and think do I really want that? do I really need that? ,how am I feeling right now?

I'm trying to cut back on bread, doing just fine for breakfast but its the lunch and dinner times that have been little harder today. I had two cheddar biscuits at lunch but drank so much water to flush it out because after eating. Sure, it was yummy but dang it was soo salty, not good for me.

Ate more salad today than I thought possible. I find myself craving more healthier food is that even possible??? I'm surprised.

I'm getting my blood drawn Friday morning was really hoping for it to happen tomorrow afternoon but, I'm rolling with the punches on that.

I got a call tonight to schedule meeting with Julie about the results of the test, that excites me, scares me a bit of the unknown but I know no matter what the results are I will be ok.

Looking forward to hearing from the YMCA people and getting all that in order, looking for one with a pool so I can do water aerobics or just do my water therapy on my own.

Once I get the testing out of the way an meet with dieticians and have a food plan I will feel more confident and comfortable.

I'm excited about flying home for work and getting to sleep in my own bed for more than weekend at a time to spend time with friends and family.

It's so hard to have X amount of hours that you are home before you leave again, and try to figure how you are going to share your time with friends,family,and heck make time for yourself,let alone your pet that has to be going thru seperation anxiety by now because mommy isn't around to snuggle with. LOL But, I'm committed to this great job project opportunity and know its only temporary this craziness of flying back and forth and I'm taking full advantage of experiencing life to the fullest. I can sleep later!

Looking forward to getting some grocery shopping done tomorrow, fresh fruits and some veggies and being able to experiment with cooking up some healthier dishes or trying even trying to make some of my favorite meals more healthier.

I hear my hotel bed calling, and faintly hear my bed at home calling my name, so on that note, I bid you all a good night, sweet dreams and let's make some small steps to better heart healthy food choices.

Love ya my fellow challengers!
Pam

Emotional Eating Strikes Again

2012-01-10T20:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's post was I'm still standing. Today's is "I'm still....in a seated position." I woke up SUPER sore from yesterday. Who knew 30 minutes on the elliptical could make even your eyelids hurt? Not me! My eating went well and my exercise went well. Today, however, the newness has worn off and I'm starting to feel the full effects of my emotional eating. I know that because I'm very irritable and upset that I can't go eat whatever I want as I've been doing for so long....and that has gotten me in this position of being overweight. I'm proud of myself for sticking to a plan and following my goals for 2 days but then I think I have a lifetime ahead of me to do this and it is more enjoyable to eat the things that make me "happy." Just thought I'd share my struggles today and see if anyone else is experiencing this or has experienced it.

Having said all of that, I'm super grateful for this amazing opportunity! I just scheduled my appointment with one of the nurse practitioners who we challengers will be meeting with. We also have a weight management counseling session coming up. Both of those meetings will be on Thursday and I'm excited to learn something new. We are also supposed to be meeting with some personal trainers soon from the YMCA and I'm really excited to get started with them to learn how to exercise more efficiently!!!

Be sure to let me know how you're doing on your journey!!!

Until tomorrow,

Molly

They don't call it a "CHALLENGE" for nothing!

2012-01-10T20:20:00.004-05:00

I'm going to keep this blog real....not negative....just real! It's not always sunshine and kittens...and so today I'm feeling a little frustrated. Still trying to get the issues of the gym membership worked out, so as of yet I haven't been to the gym. It may be me and my Gunnar Peterson DVD. Am I being tested? I guess they don't call it a "CHALLENGE" for nothing! Special shout out to my friend Shari for talking me off the ledge, or rather talking me out of the bag of double stuffed oreos to drown my frustrations in! That's right...I'm an emotional eater! There...I said it! My name is Julie and I am an emotional eater! Kind of feels cathartic to put it out there for God and everybody to see. (Not that God wasn't already aware!) This emotional eating will be something that I will be working on.

So who out there has gone to the website and signed up to do their own BetterU Challenge??

Love your ♥!
Julie

Day 1 Better U Challenge!!!!

2012-01-10T19:29:00.000-05:00

Now that I may have finally figured out how to join this blog --> Greetings! Making my official debut as a Challenger in the American Heart Association's Go Red For Women Better U Program!!! It was such an honor to meet my fellow Challengers at our kick-off breakfast a few days ago. When arriving at this "kick-off" breakfast, I entered a room full of AHA administrators from the Indy area and many healthcare professionals from St. Vincent Hospital. I initially thought they were all present to have a meeting with each other, BUT -- they were actually all there for us -- the seven new Challengers in the Go Red Better U Challenge!!!!! What a humbling experience for me -- meeting all of these professionals who scheduled time out of their own busy schedules to meet with us - with me!!! I am not one to seek the spotlight, and if there is a spotlight in the area, I will usually hide from it. Besides getting a firsthand overview and amazing realization of all the individuals who are standing by to support my fellow challengers and myself on our three-month journey, one of the most profound messages I took away from this breakfast meeting was that it is OKAY for us to take care of ourselves and to put ourselves first as we embark on this journey. It's like I needed permission to value myself above everything else in life!!!

Can we take a look at this idea a little further?? Take a look at your "to do" list, or your list of priorities........ are YOU at the top of the list right now??? I certainly was not at the top of my list -- I wasn't even on MY list!!!! Okay, so think about this........ if you are not even on your list of priorities, what will even happen to those priorities if you are not even around to address them????

As women, we could not be more blessed to live in this age and time in the history of all womankind!!!! Do you realize that women's health has simply not been addressed equally with men's, on a national and global level, until the last two decades of history???? I have been in the nursing profession since the early 1970's, and all of my learning about diseases and disorders was based on the white male medical model (weighing approximately 70 kg -- yes -- that specific!!!!). All of the decisions to treat or not treat a human being have been made based on the white male health research. Any attention to women's health came mostly from women who had gained entry into the medical and nursing professions, but progress was slow!!! Anyways -- as a result of research in the last few decades, we have come to learn that disease in women presents with different signs and symptoms, DOES NOT necessarily respond to the same treatment given to males, and the results are different, and even the prognosis for the outcome of the disease/disorder!!! Many medical research studies being done on major debilitating diseases in the last two decades have started to include equal numbers of women in the studies. As a result, we have the blessed chance of being healthier than women throughout all history. Just take a look at how many women's health centers AND women's hospitals that have opened nationally in the last decade!!!!! Imagine -- hospitals just for women!!

Lo and behold -- just LOOK where we are today, ladies. Our own American Heart Association, which has been around since 1924, cared enough in 2004 to develop an entire cause devoted to women -- The Go Red for Women movement. For those of you who haven't done so, I challenge you to visit the AHA website (http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/) and their Go Red for Women movement (http://www.goredforwomen.org/). I am so confident that you will develop some passion and inspiration to take a look at caring for yourself -- simply reading about all the work being done to prevent heart disease and stroke, and getting an idea of the help and support and encouragement that is available from these two websites alone.

So for now, as I begin day one of this three month challenge with my fellow Challengers, I am trying to come to terms with the fact that I can be my first priority, and take care of myself before I get to other things on my "to do" list. I will share much more about myself in the coming weeks. I just wanted to inspire others of you to really want to do something for yourself, because as women all over the world, we play a priority role in the health of our families and society. With all we are blessed to know about our health today, we can all make an impact on the lives of those around us -- IF -- we are healthy enough and actually here because we made time to take care of our own health. One last beautiful nugget I came away with from our kick-off breakfast. I know that you have all likely heard of the saying "random acts of kindness". Well, Renee, one of my fellow challengers, shared with me the idea that she decided to start doing random acts of kindness for herself. I think it would be a lovely thing for all of us to put that on our "to do" list every day.

Okay fellow Challengers -- let's do this!!!!!

Keep moving!

2012-01-10T09:57:00.003-05:00

During the past year I have found that once you start moving and exercising the more you will want to continue exercising. Yesterday I did my daily three mile walk followed by a one hour aerobics class. But this was not how I started over a year ago. Back then, my prep for my aerobics class was to down two Tylenols with water. I hurt! Yes, no pain, no gain. Today, I can say I don't need the Tylenol.

This morning I was at the gym at 8:00 a.m. with Peggy who was a BetterU challenger last year. She is my BetterU support partner this year. We walked and talked for almost an hour. Time does go fast when you're having fun. It really helps to have support during your journey. At 11:00 a.m. I will pickup my 81 year old friend and go to our Yoga class. Seeing her doing Yoga in a chair lets you know you are never too old to get up and MOVE.

There is one problem for me with the continued exercising. Well, it's really not a problem. I now had so much more energy that I have had to find new way to use this energy. Walking three miles a day, five days a week is my gift to my heart.

They say to lead by example. I hope I am an example that a 63 year old young person, who has had a heart attack, can get back in the saddle and make major lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of future heart attacks.

Choose to be a BetterU at GoRedForWomen.org. Learn how to make heart-healthy choices every day. It's in your court.

Keep moving,
Renee

Day1, Bring It!

2012-01-09T21:57:00.003-05:00

Who says getting up early is for the birds?!

I flew into Maryland for work Sunday night and focused on the journey I'm about to begin with jumping in with both feet!

I woke up at 5:30am to hit the hotel gym, very excited to see no one in there and got my treadmill and bike time in 45minutes then it was off to the room to shower, get ready for work and get something healthy to eat for breakfast.

My Goals today were: write down everything I eat, drink a gallon of water, no eating after 7pm.

I had yummy oatmeal, blueberry yogurt and a sausage patty and skim milk.

Stressful or emotional eating can be an issue for me and with Monday's being hectic and busy at work, I want to be prepared. (peanuts, nutrigrain bar, and pineapples were my choices)

Who would've thought a petite Alaskan salmon,broccoli & green beans would be enough
to satisify the hunger for lunch. (nothing fried or salty, score!) Houlihan's was the great place I found this, I highly recommend it!

It's humbling and enlightening seeing your own handwriting when you write down everything you eat in a day.

Did YOU know how many ounces are in a gallon of water?
The answer: 128 ounces... to break that down easier, with the 32oz water bottle I use I only have to drink four 32 ounces and I managed to get 3 of the 4 in before 5pm. WOOT WOOT! (its easier than it sounds!)

I will keep this up the entire journey, it's good for you and I love water, may need to throw in some lemon or lime to mix it up.

I went to dinner w/a coworker tonite and didn't finish until 7:30ish so that's not too bad. The dinner had grilled shrimp and crabcake over linguini. Loved the shrimp, the linguini, not so much nor the crabcake. It was the seasoning and sodium I'm sure. I'm drinking more water over my gallon goal tonight because I don't like the way the meal made me feel afterwards.

Will be sure to look more closely and ask question on the meal choices for sodium next time.

I'm confident I can do this it's small, simple choices that anyone can make!

Did you know that the #1 killer of women is HEART DISEASE??
1 in 3 odds, 2 will live , 1 will die from HEART DISEASE!!
(I remember hearing this long ago but chose to "block it out" because I felt it couldn't happen to me, well I can tell you it can happen to ANYONE!)

If you have high blood pressure like me, you are AT RISK for HEART DISEASE!!

80% of heart disease may be prevented if we choose to act NOW and start living heart-healthy!

You've got NOTHING to lose by checking out the site:

http://www.goredforwomen.org/betteru/

Sign up for the 12 week challenge, tell your best friend, your sister, your mother, grandmother,your coworker,your neighbor. KNOWLEDGE is POWER!!!

I'd love to hear from you and let me know if you are up for the challenge and let's do this journey together! We can do it! I believe in you and me!

Ready for Day 2 and beyond!
Loving myself and my heart one day at time!

Pam

I'm still standing

2012-01-09T18:59:00.001-05:00

Well, today was day 1 and I’m still standing. I’m sore….but I’m still standing. I’m a little hungry…but I’m stillstanding. I actually took pride in myhealthy meals. I even took a picture ofmy lunch before I ate it because I have never before voluntarily eaten such ahealthy meal and enjoyed it! (I’llinclude a picture and the recipe later if you’re interested!) I decided my goals for the week would be#1 tonot eat in front of the television because it’s just too easy to hork down mymeal in a hurry and not even enjoy it and #2 I decided I would work out for at least 30 minutes every day, no matterwhat. I’m blessed to have a YMCA lessthan a mile from my house so I took advantage of that and used the ellipticalfor 30 minutes. Now, I need to qualifythat statement because the elliptical and I are not exactly friends. We’ve had our ups and downs, the ellipticaland I (pun totally intended) I try it every few weeks thinkingthat surely this time I’ll enjoy it more than I have in the past and then Ialways hear myself mutter as I get off “whydo I keep trying this instrument of torture?!” Today, however, was really not so bad. I didn’t even mutter as I got off! I don’t think I’ve mentioned yet that I’ve been participating in a couchto 5K program over the last 5 weeks and apparently all of that walking andjogging has helped. Go figure….exercisemakes a difference?! Alert the media!

My original plan was to go back to the Y this evening andwalk/jog on the treadmill for 30 minutes while my husband was in spin class.(Which, by the way, while we’re discussing instruments of torture, let’s talkabout how a 45 minute long spin class could possibly be a really effective meansof getting information out of prisoners!!) Anyway, an unexpected work meeting came up that I had to be at duringthe time I was going to go back so I am rolling with the punches and chalkingup my 30 minutes of exercise as a success. Why am I telling you this? Well, because as we all know, sometimes lifegets in the way and we have to figure out how to roll with the punches. The old me may have said “I can’t work outtonight so I’ll just stay home and eat bon-bons” but the new me says “Thankgoodness I had time to work out this morning instead!”

And then the new me asked if it was time for bed yet because that elliptical made her tired!

I’m optimistic and ready for day 2! I pray every day goes as smoothly as todaydid!

Molly

*********************************************************************************

OK, if you made it through all of that and still want my healthy lunch here it is:

Chicken Spinach Salad with Feta and Strawberries

1 cup washed spinach

1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries

1/4 cup reduced fat feta cheese

1/2 cup diced, baked chicken breast

2 TB fat free balsamic vinaigrette

(isn't it preeeety?!)

It's up to you...no one else

2012-01-09T17:33:00.002-05:00

I heard it over and over again..."get moving/exercise, eat healthy, lose weight". But until it all clicked for me, nothing changed. I said to myself (and I know you have said it too), "I know what to do. I have read hundreds of articles, watched hundreds of programs and seen the impact that exercise, healthy eating and weight loss has on the lives of people". Why did I wait so long to begin this journey? I guess I just was not ready. But then one day a little over a year ago something happened that started my journey to a better me. I can't say there was an event; it just happened. I believe it may have been that I was just tired of having problems breathing and moving, avoiding looking in a mirror at myself, and just not enjoying life. Also, I feared I wouldn't be around to enjoy my grandchildren. ( I'm glad no one is here in the room with me as I compose this blog because I don't want anyone to see my tears.)

Well, here I am over a year into my life style change journey and the BetterU Challenge has come into my life. Its resources, tools, support, and my new partners are valuable gifts. I have always had a supportive husband and children, but now they are especially proud to see "a better me that will get even better".

Yes, it's up to you. Join me. It's not always easy, but life never promised us a rose garden. We have to work for a goal worth achieving. Your it!! Join us.

Renee

Did I really just tell the world what I weigh?

2012-01-08T14:05:00.006-05:00

Well, the 12 week challenge officially starts tomorrow. I am anxious to get started and thought if I’m going to be bearing my soul here for the next 12 weeks, perhaps I should tell you a little more about me than just what is in that little blurb over there. --------->

I could make it really short and say “My name is Molly and I am tired of being fat…..the end” but I suppose I should include a little more than that. I grew up one of those people that I hate now. You know, the kind that can eat anything and not gain a pound. Yep…that was me. *raises hand timidly* I was relatively active and I participated in a lot of sports and activities in high school but I never exercised just to be exercising or ever think about my weight, let alone my heart health, at all.

Around the time I got my driver’s license and was able to go get whatever food I wanted whenever I wanted, I began to develop some really horrible eating habits. But, I still didn’t gain any weight. (I know, I know….I hate me too) I graduated high school at around 120 pounds (I’m 5’4”) It wasn’t until my freshman year of college that I began working on my obligatory freshman 15. Really, I blame society for telling me I had to do that! (Just kidding) My freshman year of college is also when I met my husband. Of course, that meant a lot of dinner dates and pizzas at midnight. (Honestly, Papa John’s breadsticks at 2 a.m. is a religious experience) By the time we got married 4 years later, I was 30 pounds heavier.

The next 14 years were kind of a blur in terms of my weight. I’d be up quite a bit and get serious about losing, lose about 20 pounds and then fall off the proverbial wagon. I also used each of my 3 pregnancies as an oasis from dieting and really ballooned up during each of them, never quite losing all the weight I’d gained from the previous pregnancy. (Really, can you still call it baby weight when the "baby" is 4?)

By the time my youngest was born 4 years ago, I weighed 240 pounds and was completely. And utterly. Miserable.

Another interesting thing happened during my pregnancy with him that I had never experienced before: High blood pressure. I actually got admitted to the hospital for a total of 12 days before, during and after his delivery. I was told I had to get the weight off to make sure it wasn’t something that I had to deal with the rest of my life. I got serious yet again and made my way down to 170 pounds with diet alone. No real exercise to speak of. When I hit the 170 pound mark, however, the pounds were a lot harder to get off. It was time to start exercising. I joined the YMCA and began working out quite a bit. I even trained for and completed a sprint triathlon in 2010. (In case you don’t know, a sprint triathlon is a quarter of a mile swim, a 20 mile bike, and a 3.1 mile run.) Even with training for that, though, I didn’t get back down to where I wanted to be... Since then, life has gotten in the way yet again, and I find myself back up about 35 pounds.

I applied for the BetterU Challenge after seeing it on the news one evening. Women who want to get more heart healthy by losing weight were asked to send in an application. I immediately applied and I am so thrilled that I did. The 7 Challengers all have very different stories. Some of the ladies have a strong family history of heart disease, some have had heart attacks, high blood pressure, stents placed, etc. Maybe you can relate to my story. Maybe you relate better to one of the other challengers. We are all at different stages in our lives and different places in our journey but the one thing that binds us all together is that we are taking this step for our health. I hope you will join us too.

Here's to a BetterU and a Better Me in 2012!

Molly

Truth or dare??

2012-01-08T07:47:00.004-05:00

Let's start with truth....the truth is, writing this blog is way out of my comfort zone. It feels like you are jumping up and down saying "look at me," and like you are bragging. Who wants to be the center of attention when you are physically at your worst, when your BMI indicates you are obese, you are on 3 different high blood pressure meds and a cholesterol medication, and you are in denial about the size of clothing that you wear? But the truth is, this blog, really has nothing to do with me. Its about saving lives and bringing attention to womens heart health. I am just one example of the many women that haven't made the best choices in their daily lives. So I will put myself out there, with my insecurities and all, and I will blog!

Now, since I have put myself out there, I am going to ask something of you...here comes the "dare!" I dare you to find out your numbers....your BMI, your cholesterol level, your blood pressure, your weight. I dare you to find out where you stand in your heart health. Believe me, I know...I know its easier to walk past the scale and not weigh yourself...ignorance is bliss, but it can also kill you! I encourage you to have a face to face with your doctor to discuss your heart health. If you aren't ready for that, most pharmacies have free blood pressure monitors that you can check your BP at, so you could start there! Take baby steps if you have to! Don't forget, you can do the challenge right along with the seven of us, with the online version, just click the link below to register. " https://www.goredforwomen.org/Registration.aspx"

Love your ♥!
Julie

The Journey begins with the first step

2012-01-07T14:17:00.005-05:00

In October of 2011 I was watching Channel 13 and heard about the Go Red For Women BetterU Program. "Interesting", I said to myself. So I submitted my essay describing why I wanted to participate in the Go Red For Women BetterU Challenge and to my surprise I was selected. What A blessing! With a family history of heart disease and having had a heart attack and with 3 stents implanted, the BetterU Challenge will be a support as I continue on my healthy life style journey.

Just yesterday we had our first meeting of the new seven BetterU Challengers at a kickoff breakfast. The bonding was immediate because we all had so much in common. What a delight to also meet the professional support staff that will assist us on this part of our journey. But the seven of us who are this years Challengers are not the only ones that can embark on learning how to become heart healthy. You too can take the first step and sign up for the 12 week online BetterU Program challenge. Register at https://www.goredforwomen.org/Registration.aspx There are a range of resources and tools provided online, in additon to the blogs. Share with us your challenges and successes. Most important remember, the journey begins with the first step.

Renee

Kickoff breakfast.....GO RED!

2012-01-07T04:05:00.005-05:00

We had a great kickoff breakfast yesterday at St. Vincent Heart Center! The official start is Monday the 9th, but we are getting things rolling! I met my 6 fellow challengers who are committed to making their health a priority. I was blown away by the amount of people at the kickoff, people that are there for us to give guidance and support. People were there from the American Heart Association, Staff from St. Vincent Heart Center, previous Go Red BetterU Challengers, i could go on and on! I can tell you, they didn't just show up to make an appearance....they believe in this heart and soul! I feel so fortunate and blessed to be given this opportunity.

I am learning so much already. Did you know that 80% of cardiac events in women are linked to poor choices, involving diet, exercise and smoking? The numbers are staggering...but the good news is that we can do something about this! Lets all love our hearts and commit ourselves to making better choices. Are you ready to get started yourself? You can take the 12 week challenge too online, just go to "https://www.goredforwomen.org/Registration.aspx". There are some great tools that you will also find to help you out. If you sign up, leave a comment and let me know, I want to hear of your progress too!

Love your ♥!
Julie

What have I signed up for??

2012-01-06T15:40:00.002-05:00

Hello new friends, old friends, and fellow challengers!

As you've already read, today was the kick off breakfast for the 2012 Go Red Better U Challenge! I must admit, I really had no idea what to expect. Now that the Challenge’s Official Start date of January 9 is only 3 short days away, reality is starting to sink in. As I was looking around the room listening to people speak about nutrition and exercise and heart healthy practices, I was hit by the thought that “Oh my gosh. What have I signed up for?? I have to completely change my lifestyle!” That thought was quickly followed by “I better eat everything in sight this weekend!!!” Of course, I’m kidding.

Kind of.

After the breakfast, the first thing I did was stop at the grocery to get lots of healthy foods to have on hand. With 3 small children and a rather picky eater of a husband, I have my work cut out for me in finding meals we can all eat together without quickly becoming a short order cook.

If you are reading this and you haven’t already signed up to take part in the 12 week challenge with us….do it now! It’s easy! Go to this link and register. https://www.goredforwomen.org/Registration.aspx There is an amazing tool for your computer that even syncs with your calendar to send you helpful hints and reminders. When it asks, put your start date as January 9 so that you can participate right along with the 7 of us challengers!! Be sure to leave a comment when you’ve signed up so we know who all is participating with us…then continue to share your challenges with us.

There is strength in numbers, my friends. Join us. Your heart will thank you!!

Molly

And the Journey begins !!

2012-01-06T12:48:00.003-05:00

I feel so blessed to have been chosen along with six other lovely ladies to participate in this journey of knowledge of learning how to be more heart healthy.

We met with the committee and you can already "feel the love" and support from everyone there and the encouragement to step out of our "comfort zones" and learn,grow and make a change.

Who would've thought we would be doing interviews and talking to the media already!?
(Not sure if I was ready for my close up just yet, but got thru it just fine, no hair, makeup or lipstick issues lol ) Be sure to check out WTHR today at 5:20 segment!

Here's what I'm hoping to get out of this 12 week program.
*Better understanding on what is heart healthy lifestyle
*Focus on exercise and nutrition and what is best for my mind, body and soul!
*Lose some of this weight that is holding me back.
*Get off my high blood pressure medicine.

Some of you are probably wondering what is this 2012 Better U challenge and what all does it entail??? Here's a link to check out what we'll be doing and YOU can do it too! It's FREE!! (who doesn't LOVE FREE?!) http://www.goredforwomen.org/BetterU/

Here's a quote that is rescinating heart for this opportunity:
“Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.”

A New Year-A New Me-A New Us!

2012-01-06T12:28:00.003-05:00

After attending the kick off breakfast for the Go Red for Women gathering this morning, I come away with a new focus....a focus that not only involves getting myself healthier for 2012 and beyond, but reaching out to others to help them commit to a better, healthier year as well. I know that to many, heart disease is thought to be a "man's disease." But, as I learned this morning, 1 in 30 American women die of breast cancer and 1 in 3 die from cardiovascular disease. In fact, more women die of cardiovascular disease than the next five causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer. So, my message to my friends, family, acquaintances, co-workers, and other participants of the Go Red BetterU Makeover Challenge is that with each others help, support, camaraderie and prayers we will all make a difference to be a better, healthier population. Stay tuned for details as I give my all to this challenge. And, help to challenge yourself and others in your inner circle to become involved in a challenge that could help to save your life and theirs as well.

Kick Off Breakfast

2012-01-06T11:46:00.000-05:00

What a way to start the 2012 BetterU Challenge. For the first time, all seven challengers got together for a kickoff breakfast at St.Vincent Heart Center. They got a chance to meet the BetterU committee members who will be supporting them as well as the St.Vincent medical team that will be providing professional guidance.

At the end of the meeting, we taped a news segment with Anne Marie Tiernon from WTHR and posed for a group photo.

Getting Started

2012-01-05T16:28:00.002-05:00

The new 12-week challenge is almost here. Officially it starts Monday, but our seven new Challengers have already taken the first steps. Over the last two days, they've visited St.Vincent for a lipid panel screening, and they've scheduled visits with Julie Schnieders, the nurse practitioner who is going to meet with them and offer a personal consultation.

Friday morning we'll all meet for the first time for an orientation breakfast at St.Vincent Heart Center, and then it will be full steam ahead.

We're looking forward to reading all about their journey right here.

New BetterU Challenge starts Jan. 9, 2012

2011-12-21T09:20:00.000-05:00

Beginning at September's Indianapolis Heart Walk, we made a call out for a new round of BetterU Challengers. More than 60 people applied in just four weeks. Our BetterU committee narrowed it down to seven challengers, who will start the 12-week program on Jan. 9.

Stay tuned over the next few weeks as we introduce the challengers.

It Can’t be Over!

2011-06-08T00:07:00.000-04:00

It ain’t over ‘til the fat lady sings and I haven’t sung yet! I don’t want the 2011 BetterU program to end yet. I’ve enjoyed getting to know each one of the Challengers (aka The Fab Four) so much and I’m truly going to miss sharing the journey with you. I hope you all come to the wrap-up party next Monday. We’ll have to talk about keeping in touch. Maybe we can go another round of the BetterU program. That sounds like fun to me. Are you up for it? You all have inspired me tremendously by sharing your stories publicly with all of us. Your little lights are shining and I am so proud of you, Annette, Carla, Natale & Peggy! Sandy F.

Melancholy Baby

2011-05-24T19:50:00.002-04:00

While I'm so happy to have participated in the 2011 Indianapolis BetterU challenge, tonight my heart is not only healthier, it is heavy. I'm simply sad to have this wonderful program end. I've learned so much from the St. Vincent dietitians and received words of encouragement from the medical staff. I've learned the power of strength training from Cody at Lifetime Fitness. I've made friends with Peggy, Natale and Carla as we've made this journey together. I've come to know and respect the American Heart Association staff for all that they do every day! Terrific tips, wonderful people and a purposeful cause will be a part of my heart forever.

Final Week

2011-05-24T13:28:00.000-04:00

It's amazing how quickly 12 weeks can pass. We kicked off the BetterU Challenge in early March on the heels of the Go Red For Women Luncheon.

The ladies have been very dedicated in making the most of the challenge. They started with a visit with Dr. Nancy Branyas, a cardiologist who gave them an idea of what to prioritize in their journey to better health.

They've also met with dietician Melissa Wrin, and you've read numerous posts about their visits to LifeTime Fitness.

The challengers are looking better on the outside and feeling better on the inside. The next time you see them they'll be looking even better on the outside. Thanks to Nicole Bryan Salon each of our challengers is going to get a complimentary cut and color treatment.

A heartfelt thanks to the salon and everyone else who has supported the BetterU program this year.

Week 12: Pledge for a Healthy Future

2011-05-22T14:45:00.001-04:00

Can you believe that we’re in the final week of our BetterU program? Time flies when you’re having fun and I had a blast. I truly enjoyed getting to know the Fab Four -- Annette, Carla, Natale and Peggy. And I truly enjoyed getting to know the BetterU Committee -- Amy, Bobbi, Kim, Margie, Marla, Michelle, Nancy, Pam and Tim. I don’t want it to end. Hopefully, we can all stay in touch.

Annette, Carla, Natale and Peggy: Over the past 12 weeks, you have taken meaningful steps to makeover your hearts. You should feel good about the progress you made and celebrate your successes. Please do not beat yourself about any setbacks you may have experienced. That is just being human. No one is perfect. Two steps forward -- one step back. It’s a journey and we’re all in this together.

In the last week of the program, we are reminded that, as we continue our journey to lifelong heart health, we should stop if we’re tempted to make a choice that may not support our commitment to an active lifestyle and healthy eating habits. We should think about our progress during the Go Red BetterU program and the personal benefits we are enjoying from new healthy habits. We should remind ourselves why our eating and physical activity choices are important to us. We should choose the best solutions after weighing the benefits and barriers for our options.

I am sure that not all the skills and strategies in the BetterU program were beneficial to you. You should identify the ones that were and use them to form your heart healthy habits. Now that you’re on the path toward a heart-healthy lifestyle, the real fun begins. It’s time for you to reach out and help others do the same. Share your successes and struggles and reach out to others so they can start their path toward a heart-healthy lifestyle. It’s time to let your little light shine!!! I love you guys!!! Sandy F.

oops I did it again...

2011-05-20T21:50:00.002-04:00

Well ladies, I have to admit I am disappointed with my behavior lately. (First off that I have not taken the time to post!) I apologize in my lack of blogging as of late! I would think every night, I need to post, oohh that would be good, etc etc.

So oops I did it again...I have had a difficult time keeping up at the gym. I have been working a lot of extra hours at work, traveling, working in the yard, therefore, I have seemed to come up with a million excuses to not make it to my workouts! Furthermore, I haven't seen my trainer for 2 WEEKS due to both of our schedules! My stress level is thru the roof right now, and my favorite med is FOOD! Not healthy food either, JUNK! So I eat it and feel like JUNK! So the I did it again refers to falling off the band wagon yet again!

I am starting to absolve that this being healthy thing will be a challenge for me the rest of my life. I have always KNOWN this, but in my heart I am starting to accept that reality. And my mental health about myself is improving because of this realization. I don't progress anymore to be a size 2 or have the tightest abs. I want to progress to continue to prepare my body for a baby, and to be a healthy me. That's it. I am liking this person in the mirror a little more each day, which has made me more encouraging to others to do the same!

So for a funny...
I have been changing the red mulch and garden beds around with new flowers and black mulch for several weeks now. I get a good workout from all the digging out of bushes, lifting mulch bags and such. I have a little hornet friend who likes to pester me. I have ANXIETY issues with bugs, all bugs, esp ones that inflict pain. So while I mulch I have to monitor what this little booger is doing. Well he (of course it is a HE) was flying close to me and I would sprint to the front door! EVVERYTIME, I would sprint! SO, not only did I get a few miles in of interval training, before my workouts and this program I probably wouldn't have been able to run so fast!

Week 11: Live Smoke Free

2011-05-16T19:36:00.000-04:00

I am so grateful that I never picked up the habit of smoking. With my addictive personality, I’m sure I’d be smoking at least five packs per day. Thank you, God! I did try when I was 20 years old because I always heard that when people stop smoking, they gain weight. I assumed that if you start smoking, you’d lose weight. I just could not get the hang of it. I tried three cigarettes and I was coughing and choking like an idiot. I gave away the rest of the cigarettes and never smoked again. Now, if I cold only do that with chocolate and ice cream. Wow, life would be so easy.

I had a blast at our Get Active event at the U of Indy. We got quite the workout by doing Jazzercise. And boy, did we work out, thanks to our vivacious leader, Latesha. I loved it and I can’t wait to try it again. I’ve done almost every kind of exercise out there, but somehow I skipped Jazzercise. Now I can add that to my repertoire and I plan to really get into it soon. Latesha owns the Jazzercise located at the Performing Arts Center, 575 W. Carmel Drive, Carmel, Indiana. You will have so much fun working out that you won’t realize you’re working out. Try it, you’ll like it. Thank you soooo much, Latesha!!!!

Kudos to our very own Dr. Peggy Averitte. I cut out the article from yesterday’s Indianapolis Star and it’s hanging on my bulletin board. You are my inspiration. Way to go, Peggy!!!

I hope to see everyone at our walking event at the White River Park Visitors Center, 801 W. Washington Street on Saturday, May 21st at 10:00 a.m. Be there or be square! Sandy F.

Week 10: It’s All in the Family (History)

2011-05-11T22:26:00.000-04:00

We can’t control our G’s (genes), but we sure can control our H’s (habits). We can make choices for a healthy future for ourselves and our families. In this week’s program, it suggests that we put our own health first. Many women put the needs of their family first without realizing that they cannot take care of others without taking care of themselves. We should all be role models. This week, my goal is to be an American Heart Association BetterU role model. Everyone who knows me knows that I’m taking the BetterU Challenge right along with the Fab Four and they also know that I have not been as successful as I would like. Well, I just had my AHA moment. I saw that on a commercial and I really thought they were talking about the American Heart Association until I realized that they were talking about “the moment of clarity” or “the moment a solution to a problem becomes crystal clear.” I like using it as my American Heart Association moment – the moment I decided that I will become healthier and stop farting around with all my millions of excuses. In my quest to become a BetterMe, I am going to involve my family and friends so they can each become a BetterU. We’re all in this together. I am also very interested in helping the AHA in their efforts to combat childhood obesity. I plan to learn more about the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and the EmpowerME program to help kids and families get healthy. Sandy F.

I'm back!

2011-05-09T22:37:00.002-04:00

Sorry, I've been away for awhile. Positive things are afoot! I fear I am behind my schedule for weight loss. But that's okay. For the first time in 16 years, I ran! Mind you, in my eight years of track and field running was never my forte. Nevertheless, I picked one foot up and then the other in rapid secession. It was quite a breakthrough as up to this point, my legs felt like molten lead.

I was sorry to miss the fitness demonstration but was attending Becoming an Outdoor Woman (BOW). It's a great program to introduce women to outdoor activities. My most eventful session was the canoe. My adventures there resulted in me being crowned Ms. Tippecanoe...

To B12 or Not to B12? That is the question....

2011-05-05T12:40:00.002-04:00

OK, so I've had a hard time getting my mojo on since this challenge started...fatigue, lethargy, getting lightheaded while working out...just general blahs. Having a history of anemia, I asked the doctor for a general blood workup. Well, my hemoglobin count was OK, so no anemia there. But my B12 levels were way deficient! Symptoms include light headedness, fatigue, inability to concentrate....Wow, that's me!
Sources of B12 include meat, fish, eggs, dairy...all things I was trying to watch for my cholesterol count....ugh!
So I'm hoping my mojo returns now that I'm getting B12 again.
By the way, mania and psychoses are also effects of low B12....so watch out for my mood swings!

A New Attitude!

2011-04-29T11:50:00.002-04:00

This week, as you know, LifeTime Fitness was closed due to remodeling. Who would have suspected that I would have missed not going to the gym; especially with the cost of gas being over $4.00 a gallon? While I am working out I feel like I won't survive. I often ask myself if I'm having fun. Now that I haven't been there for a week I guess I will have to admit that I do miss it and maybe even enjoy it. Alright now I've said it...I enjoy going to the gym. Maybe I enjoy it because I have accepted the fact that it is a necessary evil. Surprisingly I am looking forward to the fitness event this Saturday. Hopefully I'll see many of you there!

Week 8: De-stress and Be Blood Pressure Smart

2011-04-25T19:46:00.001-04:00

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often called the “silent killer” because many people have it for years without knowing it. And the good old American Heart Association has a BetterU course to help us lower our blood pressure to the optimal level of 120/80 mmHg or below. We can’t control some factors, such as race, heredity and age; but we can make heart healthy choices to control other factors that influence our blood pressure, such as obesity, eating too much salt, drinking too much alcohol, lack of physical activity and stress.

I often react very badly to stress and I like the tips in this week’s program –Fuel your body with healthy foods and drink plenty of water! Get plenty of sleep on a regular basis! Practice deep breathing and relaxation exercises! Unplug and take a break from technology! Positive self-talk! Finding pleasure! And the one I love the most – KEEP MOVING! Our fitness event at the Schwitzer Center at the University of Indianapolis this Saturday is a perfect way to ward off stress (and perfect timing, too). I am so looking forward to seeing you all again. I can’t wait! Please spread the word. We want as many people as possible there to join us as we do fitness dancing, kickboxing, yoga & Pilates. We want to spread the word about BetterU and our wonderful BetterU Challengers. Also, if we’re not too tired after the two-hour workout (yikes), maybe we can go out to eat for a nice heart-healthy salad. Just a thought!

BTW, did you notice the ad on page 19 of the Indianapolis Woman Magazine? It’s a half-page ad in my favorite magazine for my favorite organization (AHA) telling everyone about the Get Fit – Free Fitness Event on Saturday and the Get Moving – Free Walking Event on Saturday, May 21st. Check it out. The ad is wonderful!

Hey Annette, I went to your nephew and niece-in-law’s blogsite and I loved it. I was excited to find out how to make perfect hard boiled eggs. Too bad I learned too late for Easter, but I’m definitely going to try their method the next time I make hard-boiled eggs. I never knew that older eggs peel better than fresh ones (living proof that you can teach an old dog new tricks). I think it’s wonderful that they donate any ad revenue to the Good Shepherd Community Center. I’d love to meet them!

CU all Saturday at Schwitzer Center at the University of Indianapolis from 10:00 – noon. Be there or be square! Sandy F.

A Blog Within a Blog

2011-04-25T08:47:00.001-04:00

So, I may not be setting the world on fire by losing weight during this program....but I have already learned a lot through the healthy cooking demonstration and by meeting with the dietitian at St. Vincent's. A few of the key things I've learned: not all meat is bad; not all poultry is good; look at fiber intake; I might be drinking too much iced tea as it affects iron absorption...etc. etc.

Learning about food is an ongoing education. I'm learning from my nephew and his wife who are foodies who support buying and eating local, natural foods. They have a beautiful blog, take all their own photos, and any ad revenue they generate is donated to the Good Shepherd Community Center. View it and you may find some key learnings for yourself!

Feel free to share the site with others!

http://www.acouplecooks.com

Week 7: Learn the Truth about Cholesterol

2011-04-20T21:55:00.001-04:00

I’ll use any little helpful hint or tip to help me remember things, like when I was in grade school and I was having trouble with dessert and desert. My teacher told me to remember that you always want at least two desserts, so remember the two s’s for something that tastes good and the one s for the dry desert (plus too many desserts will make you big in the middle – too many s’s in the middle). That’s probably not a good example to use when you’re trying to eat healthy, now is it? Actually, right now I’m thinking of the heart-healthy dessert that Executive Chef Scott Reifenberger made for us at the cooking demonstration (chocolate-chipotle crepes w/strawberries, pistachios and a vanilla bean anglaise). Ooh-la-la, my mouth still waters for that one. Now, where was I? Oh yes, to make a short story long – this week’s theme is learning about cholesterol. Margie Fougeron gave us some great helpful tips at the cooking demo to help us remember about the bad and good fats. MONOUNSATURATED, POLYUNSATURATED and SATURATED fats are called the family of fats. We should use MORE of the MONOUNSATURATED oils – canola, peanut and olive oils, and foods high in monounsaturated oils - nuts and avocadoes. These oils and foods help reduce bad blood cholesterol levels. POLYUNSATURATED oils are PRETTY good oils - corn, safflower, soybean and cottonseed oils. SHY away from SATURATED fats because they increase bad blood cholesterol levels. Trans fats are made through the process of hydrogenation that solidifies liquid oils to solid at room temperature. Trans fats act like saturated fat and are found in vegetable shortenings, some margarine, coffee creamers, crackers, cookies, cereals and other snack foods. Check the food labels for the trans fats contents. We should limit trans fatty acids to no more than 2 gm per day.

Thanks to the BetterU program, I now know that LDL “Bad” cholesterol carries cholesterol to the tissues, including the arteries; if too much circulates in your blood, it can clog arteries and form plaque, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke. I learned that my optimal LDL should be less than 100 mg/dL. LDL is LOUSY and should be LOW (baaaad). I also know that HDL “Good” cholesterol carries cholesterol away from the arteries, where it is passed from the body. 60 mg/dL and above gives some protection against heart disease. HDL is HAPPY and should be HIGH (gooood).

Speaking of Happy – HAPPY EASTER, EVERYONE! I miss reading your blogs, Annette, Peggy, Carla and Natale. I hope you are all HAPPY and HEALTHY and I hope you are just so busy getting healthier that you don’t have time to blog. I hope no news is good news, but I would still love to hear from you! Sandy F.

Sharing Our Barriers

2011-04-13T21:46:00.002-04:00

It sure does help to know that other people have barriers and we’re not the only ones who struggle and have to start all over again with baby steps. But Carla, you did start again and that’s what I love about you and the rest of the Challengers. You’re not going to let anything get you down. It does help to share our barriers because we find out that, although our personal barriers are uniquely our own, there is usually a common thread in all of them. And it does lighten the load when we know that other people care and we’re all in this together. You are so blessed to have such a wonderful sounding board, Natale. Your husband sounds like a dream come true. We all need a sounding board every now and then. That’s why I thought it would be a great idea for all of us to get together for coffee (of course, non-fat, no whip and sugar-free please, right, Natale?) just to talk things out. If not coffee, maybe a salad and iced tea or diet soda (I do not like to drink my calories). Is there a place and time that would work for everyone? I’ll be there with bells on!

Some of us were saying that we don’t get daily tips in our email. Well, I downloaded the BetterMe coaching tool to my desktop and, ooh-la-la, I can just click on it and get as many tips as I want whenever I’m on my computer. The tips and reminders don’t go to your email; they go directly to your tool. You can also download it to your social networking site such as Facebook. This optional tool allows you to conveniently stay on track with your program anytime you are online. Every day, you'll get tips, reminders and more sent directly to your tool. You'll also receive step-by-step guidance and be able to access your journal. This is a convenient, simple way to ensure progress (and encouragement!) every day. I’m loving this Better program more and more! The tips seem to be endless. I especially liked the one that said, “Sit up straight today. Use your abdominal muscles for support and don’t slouch.” That brought back memories of my grade school days when my eighth grade teacher, Sister Justicia, would always get on me about slouching. I am such a sloucher, but not any more after getting that BetterU tip (and reminder of the good old school days)!

I am serious about all of us getting together for line dancing. Wouldn’t it be a hoot for the Fab Four and The BetterU Committee to all go out for line dancing sometime? Let’s do it! What a fun way to burn calories. I’m always trying new ways to exercise. Someone come up with a date and a place and I’ll be there with bells on (again). And of course, you know that I’ll meet anyone anywhere for a walk. My motto is, “Call me day or night if you want to hike.” Sandy F.

Friends of a Feather

2011-04-12T21:01:00.002-04:00

Well ladies, after reading the most recent posts about your barriers to working out and eating right, I find comfort in knowing that we all have our struggles to get through. I have had a challenging last couple of weeks. I, once again, am feeling the pressures of work, home, family, friends etc invading on my "me time." In fact that is the easiest time for me to give up, as I think it is for most women. I haven't had time to go to the store and haven't been to the gym as much as I'd like. Thankfully, my husband is my sounding board! I am very blessed to have a husband who does dishes, laundry, and other household chores! He even went to the store and has a menu for this week! Hopefully, with my healthier choices now available at home I will do better this week. I guess I just identified some barriers that the 6th week discusses! ;)

And coffee (non-fat, no whip, sugar-free please!) and dancing sounds wonderful! ;)

WEEK 6: Physical Activity is Good Medicine for Breaking Down My Barriers

2011-04-12T20:26:00.002-04:00

Experts recommend that all adults do 150 minutes, or 30 minutes for 5 days of moderately intense aerobic (endurance) activity each week. I always feel so much better after exercising and I always get that WEH (wonderful endorphin high). So why has it been that I’ve been avoiding exercise like the plague lately? I was blaming it on the weather during the winter (I just couldn’t get out and hike on those icy trails). We’re three weeks into spring now, so what is my excuse? I have none, therefore, I am committing to another goal. I plan to walk 40 miles this week. And I plan to go to the gym three times this week and swim once. It’s in writing now and it’s official and I’m going to do it. Can you believe that we're in Week 6 of the BetterU program already? Wow, I said it before (last week, actually) and I'll say it again (probably next week), time flies when you're having fun. I was wondering if anyone would like to get together for coffee to brainstorm brilliant ideas or to discuss any issues concerns, progress, or just anything. If not coffee, I think it would be fun to go out line dancing somewhere. Are any of you up for that? Actually, we could do both - coffee and line dancing. I think it would be a hoot if we all got out there and kicked up our heels in a fun-loving, heart-healthy environment. Sandy F.

Breaking down those barriers

2011-04-11T21:08:00.005-04:00

Once again, the timeliness of this week's BetterU lesson is so uncanny. I fell off the bandwagon. Really truly fell, or maybe I lept...ate out, didn't do my workouts. I really do have to work on overcoming my barriers. I was so inspired after coming from the cooking demonstration. I envisioned myself creating these gorgeous plates of healthy, filling, tasty foods like our professional chef from the Skyline Club. Then reality set in. Short of a sugar crisis, the only thing that gets me to the grocery store is running out of milk. Sad, I know. Okay Carla, back to your baby steps. The first one led me across the street to our new local grocery store, Pogues Run (http://www.indyfoodcoop.org/). Pogues Run Grocer focuses on local and organic foods. I can walk across the street at lunch time and do grocery shopping for healthy foods. How cool is that? I found Rainbow Chard there. Never heard of it but cooked it in a wee bit of oil, some garlic and red onions. It was delectable! I think I should do like they do in some European countries and shop every few days for fresh produce. I'm also planning a very small garden this year (tomato, peppers, onions, some herbs). There's nothing quite like seeing the fruits of your efforts springing forth from the ground. As for exercise, I've got spring fever (literally & figuratively-more on that later). I didn't quite make it to the gym but did get few good bike rides in and some walking treks. Sandy- I will make it to one of the Indy Hiking Clubs hikes yet! but stuck close to home & did Fall Creek, Ft. Harrison & the canal. Back to spring fever. Why did I think it a good idea for someone with severe allergies to frolick through the woods, taking in early spring foliage and breathing deeply the woodsy air? Perhaps a momentary lapse in judgment. No, it was worth it! As I sit here wheezing, eyes weeping & itchy, nose twitching & running...sorry, must find tissue...

Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes...

2011-04-06T21:41:00.004-04:00

Okay girls, I must admit that even after the wonderful demo from the dietician and chef I have been terrible about my diet this week! I know what I need to do, I just need to PREPARE more...cut my veggies, buy snack size servings, get to the grocery store! I am great the days I work because my hubs cooks at home and I always pack my lunch!

I have been good about my cardio this week! I jogged outside around our subdivision on Sunday night at sunset (so pretty) for 45mins and today I jogged 3.5miles and lifted weights. Thus the tune of "head, shoulders, knees and toes" comes to mind. Especially the knees! Pounding the pavement has taken its toll on my knees and ankles this week. At the advice of my friends, I think I will be investing in new shoes! And of course I will be seeing my wonderful trainer Kara this Friday! I was actually supposed to meet with her twice this week because of her own schedule conflicts next week but one of the two sessions got cancelled. I was surprised to find myself a little saddened by that! (I mean I love Kara and all but I get severe anxiety about throwing up each time I go!) Recently, I find that I get disgusted with myself when I have an off day on my diet, and I am frustrated when I can't hit the gym! SO that is progress...it didn't used to bother me at all! So I will run my tail off at work tomorrow and Kara will be kicking my tail on Friday! And I am actually excited! (with of course that nagging thought..."don't get sick, don't get sick" running in my mind too! HA!) Have a great rest of the week everyone and get moving outside this weather is AMAZING! ;)

What's That Marketing Message Doing In My Meat?

2011-04-04T23:53:00.002-04:00

OK, so I consider myself a well-read individual who likes to know about healthy eating, common sense choices and how I can offset my negative genes.

I also have eight smart siblings and one fit husband who know about healthy food choices. So why have we all been taken in by the "All red meat is bad" message perpetrated by the pork and poultry industries?

I learned Saturday that this message is simply untrue. I was shocked to see the cholesterol numbers for chicken and that in some cases it is higher than certain cuts of red meat.

The key learning here is to read the facts, read the labels and then make decisions. I'm not going to go crazy and start eating meat all the time, but I am going to enjoy a sirloin now and again!

Week 5: Weight Control For Your Heart (& GO DAWGS!!!!)

2011-04-04T19:40:00.002-04:00

What a wonderful way to end week 4 and begin week 5 – a lively and informational nutritional program from the Director of Public Relations for The Care Group, our very own Margie Fougeron, MS, RD, CD. Thank you so much, Margie, for organizing this wonderful event. I learned so much on Saturday, April 2nd, and I can’t wait to start using my knowledge. To top it off, we had a cooking demonstration from award-winning chef, Scott Reifenberger from the Skyline Club. He made smoked salad, roasted peppers, poached pears & maple-walnut vinaigrette and chocolate-chipotle crepes w/strawberries, pistachios and vanilla bean anglaise. Ooh-laa, I was in seventh heaven. I didn’t know food that looked so elegant and tasted so delicious could also be so healthy. What a wonderful eye opener. Thank you so much, Scott. I can’t wait to try the recipes at home. We were treated to a wonderful “twofer” on Saturday. Good knowledge and good food. Wow, it just doesn’t get better than that.

I’m sure by now that everyone knows her BMI. Mine is definitely higher than it should and I am making a vow today that both my BMI and waist circumference will be better at the end of our 12-week journey than it is today. Since this is the week we are to concentrate on weight control for our heart, I am going to get down and get busy and get healthy. I know that my mood affects my eating. Whenever I get depressed, I automatically go for something sweet, especially chocolate. And while, dark chocolate is good for the heart, I know the portions I eat are detrimental to my health. I am making another vow today. Starting right now, whenever I get the urge to eat something unhealthy, I will drink water. Yes, that’s my goal and I’m sticking to it. Have a great week 5, everyone, and GO DAWGS!!!! Sandy F.

Oops

2011-03-29T19:50:00.000-04:00

Well as I said earlier, we’re all in this together. Thank you so much, Michelle, for pointing out that I blogged the wrong date for the Indianapolis Hiking Club’s hike. It should be Tuesday, April 5th, not the 4th. See there you go, people who need people are the luckiest people in the world. Color me LUCKY. Speaking of support, thank you, Michelle, for always being so supportive and just so darn sweet. CU all on Saturday the 2nd at the cooking demo and Tuesday the 5th for the hike. I can’t wait! Sandy F.

Free Cooking/Nutrition Demonstration

2011-03-28T14:36:00.000-04:00

Mom, what’s for dinner? Do you get that question a lot? Do you wonder how you can make quick and easy meals that not only will taste good, but will be good for your family? Learn how to prepare tasty and healthy meals for your family at a free cooking and nutrition demonstration on Saturday, April 2nd.

Space is limited and advance registration is required. Call the American Heart Association at 732-4700 to reserve your spot and to get more information.

Meet BetterU Challenger Peggy A.

2011-03-28T14:30:00.002-04:00

Week 4: Surround Yourself with Support

2011-03-27T22:17:00.002-04:00

I really, really believe that building a support team is one of the most important aspects of staying motivated. Annette, Carla, Natale and Peggy - you are four lucky women. You have informational support through the BetterU Program. You have emotional support from all of us on the BetterU Committee. And you have participatory support from each other and the entire group of inspired women who are taking the BetterU challenge right along with you. Don’t ever hesitate to call me if you want someone to talk to or walk with. I’m here for you! We all need each other. I love that song by Bill Withers, Lean On Me. As you know, I am a member of the Indianapolis Hiking Club and I absolutely love it. It motivates me to keep walking because walking with friends is so much more fun for me than walking by myself. I hope you all try it at least once. Just go to indyhike.org and check it out. I’ll be leading a hike for beginners on Tuesday, April 4, 2011, at 6:00 pm at Northwestway Park. I hope you join me and the Indianapolis Hiking Club. I’m also a member of TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) and I find a lot of support through this non-profit organization. Of course, we are all different and we all have different support needs. I just hope no one is trying to do this alone. We’re all in this together. Sandy F.

Life got in my way!

2011-03-26T19:30:00.002-04:00

Okay Okay, so this is the completion of week 3, I feel like I have little to show for it! I didn't log my diet once! Booooo!!!! I have family in town, we are working on renovating a house, work, extra classes at work, trainer session, workout sessions, etc etc etc. I feel like my life has been so off track this past week. The ETCs are what got me in this mess in the first place! I am a little irritated with myself, and hope that my schedule lightens up this week! But wait, I signed up for overtime! Yikes! I feel like I am on mental overload! And the time that I spent trying to catch some zzz's (which I have difficulty with anyways) I should have been working out!

Well, I will chalk this week up to nonsense. I have planned my workouts this week, will be stocking up on my favorite healthy food choices and am on my way to a massage right now! SO, hopefully I will start out fresh at work tomorrow and continue to have a smooth week! I am tired of this same 'ol number on the scale! I plan to kick its butt now!

Oh on the bright and more accomplishing side:
I rocked my workout with Kara this week! Didn't get sick at all! ;) Ha!

Water, Water Everywhere!

2011-03-25T21:13:00.002-04:00

So, I found out from personal trainer Cody something I already knew: I'm not drinking enough water. Like any healthy habit (or lack thereof), it's easy to come up with a reason why you are not doing what you should. In this case, I trace it back to my two pregnancies, when I had morning...really all-day....sickness so bad that I would vomit up water. Since then, it's been hard for me to drink water like I used to pre-pregnancies.
What I like about Cody is that he is reasonable...he didn't say "Let's get you to drink 3 gallons of water each day," instead he suggested starting with a goal of 32 oz a day. I like goals, guidelines and challenges, so his words did help me this week.
I took my wonderful insulated water bottle to work, where we have a chilled water dispenser. I keep water in my car at all times, so that if I drink as I'm running around every day, I can really knock back a few ounces.
I know the benefits of drinking water include digestive health, curbing the appetite, staving off dehydration...and one that really speaks to me: great looking skin!
So if you can incorporate more water into your daily routines, take a dive with me into h2o health!

My Jouney Continues

2011-03-24T20:22:00.002-04:00

Well today is another day in my 12 week journey. To my surprise the water aerobics class was fantastic! I really did not want to get out of the pool. But reality quickly set in that I had to "keep it moving" in order to arrive in the gym for Team Weight Loss. I now that the old adage states that "Rome was not built in a day..." and conversely I did not gain my weight in a day. But I must admit for the most part it was more fun gaining than loosing. :-) Who knew that loosing would be so hard? Hard as it may be I am happy to report that I am very encouraged.

My stamina and endurance has increased tremendously. My chronic back pain, though it is ever present, is not always at the forefront of my mind. And in my opinion this is a good thing.

I feel that after the BetterU Challenge I will continue exercising in the gym. I am becoming more conscience of what I eat and when (time of day). I am drinking more water. (Although I still drink one a regular Coke a day.) I am working on not using food to find solace during a crisis. And I will be the first to admit that this alone is worth celebrating.

Week Three

2011-03-22T12:58:00.002-04:00

We are now into week three and the beat goes on. I can now say that I lead an active life thanks to the Better U initiative and Lifetime Fitness. On Mondays I meet with my trainer Kara, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday there's JT and the Team Weight Loss Program. And Tuesday-Friday the water aerobics class consumes another hour of my morning. Now you may be wondering what happened to Saturday and Sunday. Well right now I use Saturday as my day of rest and Sunday as my day of worship. (A girl has to have a break sometime!)

After all of this exercise and training I became a little discouraged when my home scales registered a 7lb. weight loss. Come on I have been working out like a mule and eating like I'm suppose to and this is my reward. My trainer said that the scales don't show more because I'm developing muscle mass. Forget the mass let's loose some pounds!

Life leaps like a geyser for those who drill through the rock of inertia.-Alexis Carrel

2011-03-21T23:08:00.012-04:00

What's on your plate? This week's BetterU lesson was quite timely. It reminds me that I'm taking baby steps. Before the year started, I decided to drastically change my eating habits. That never happened! Knowing darn well that such a change was not sustainable, my mind staged a silent revolt, leaving me in a state of inertia.

1) Find a logging system that works for you
2) Focus on behaviors you want to change
3) Take time to log

Tracking...that's the essence of this week's lesson. How simple is that? I can handle that. Especially since my trainer Everett introduced me to www.thedailyplate.com. Not only does this site breakdown my daily intake into calories, fat, sodium, protein etc...and compare it to where I should be, it also tracks my physical activity. It's just nifty! Thanks Everett! Of course, I also like my monthly paper calendar as I'm a visual person. I've committed to tracking three days a week...any two representative days and my worst day, which tends to be on the weekend as I'm quite fond of eating out.

This has certainly helped me become a BetterMe. I'm not completely oblivious when eating out these days. I make an effort to review the nutritional value. At Arbys I asked to see the nutrition chart and ended up choosing the chicken roast sandwich, light on the dressing, over the turkey sub. And when my co-worker treated me to breakfast for my birthday, I chose the lesser of two evils, the McDonald's chicken biscuit (fewer calories, less fat...) over the Hardees one. Of course, I could have chosen oatmeal and avoided that gastrointestinal nightmare altogether, but hey, this is a process. More steps forward than backwards with occasional olympic sprints.

Week 3: Stick to Your Plan

2011-03-21T20:45:00.002-04:00

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – I just love reading your blogs. Carla, pictures don’t lie, do they? There’s no way that sweet innocent face of your beautiful twin could be an evil saboteur. She sure doesn’t look like a Little Debbie temptress. Pictures don’t lie, or do they?!?! Well, I don’t need a little Debbie temptress in my life, because I am she. That is, until right now. I am letting you know that I am going to be a BetterMe despite myself. I am going to start tracking my eating and physical activity in a beautiful journal that my friend gave me for Christmas. I haven’t used it yet and I think it’s about time I do. One thing I really want to start doing is to drink more water. Do any of you have a problem with not drinking enough water? I hope not, but if you do, then I’m in good company. I drink way too many cans of Diet Pepsi and I’m going to try to replace them with glasses of fresh, sparkling water. I’m going to add a slice of lime to my water and I am going to love drinking that refreshing water. I am really looking forward to adding water to my diet and getting rid of all my cans of Diet Pepsi. As I was reading this week’s program, I noticed that it said sneak in 10-minute or more bouts of activity throughout my day. That’s easy enough. I also like the idea of increasing the intensity of the activities I already do, like cleaning with more vigor. That’s what I’m going to do tonight – clean my kitchen floor with vim and vigor. So ladies, I am going to attack the kitchen floor with a vengeance; the kitchen floor will meet its match; and I will get a little stronger. And goodbye, Diet Pepsi - hello, refreshing sparking H2O. That’s my plan and I’m sticking to it!
Sandy F.

Meet Natale: Striving to "walk the walk"

2011-03-21T08:47:00.000-04:00

Natale is a nurse. She joined BetterU so she could practice what she preaches as she advises patients how to lead a healthier lifestyle.

I will work out 3.14 Times a Week..Did Someone say Pie?

2011-03-18T19:36:00.003-04:00

Since the time we were born, numeric measures have given us our worth. As a brand new baby, my nephew Andy's head size was in the 99th percentile, for example. We continue to be measured by SATs, GPAs, our FICO score, our net worth, the square feet of our house, our salaries, our height, our weight....the list goes on.
As a marketer I know that goals should be measurable. So last week I said that my goal was to work out three times. So I did: Wednesday, Monday, Wednesday. Did I work out 2 times in one week or 3 times in 7 days? Did I reach my goal?
While I'm not sure if I hit threshold, target or stretch (carryover from my corporate days) on that goal, I know one thing: I loved every minute of the strength training, stretching and flexing that I did. I actually felt skinnier and although sore, I ate better as a result of the exercise. It's a cycle that can be vicious at times and encouraging at other times.

Saboteur Thy Name is Camille!

2011-03-17T20:50:00.004-04:00

This is not the face of an innocent! This is the face of someone good at being bad...very bad! Thanks my evil twin for bringing home the chicken wings...and Little Debbie snacks...and potato chips.

Lead me not into temptation. Thank you, I can find my own.

We're in the Middle of Week 2 - Yeehaw!

2011-03-17T20:13:00.003-04:00

Hello Challengers!
I just love reading your blogs. I’m right there with you ladies and I can feel your pain. Wow, working out with Kara and the other trainers at Lifetime Fitness would be such a special treat. I am jealous! When we started our BetterU journey last week, I thought I had it under control, especially because Lent started last week also and I just knew that I was going to be a new, BetterMe. Well, week 2 is here and I was doing okay until we had a big St. Patrick’s Day pitch-in at work today. Yikes, I’m not feeling in control any more. It’s funny because I truly believe you four challengers can do it and you’re inspiring me, but I don’t have faith in myself. HOWEVER, I am vowing today at this very moment to change my attitude. I am focusing on moving forward and I am not going to give the past one more minute of my time or energy. My friend told me that if you think you can do something…then you absolutely can do it. PERIOD. So, ladies, WE can do this! In week 2, I am choosing to make changes in my lifestyle so I can reduce my risk factors of heart disease. To stay motivated, I am going to reward myself on Sunday the 20th, which is the first day of spring. I’m going to buy myself the book, The Joy Factor. I can’t wait! I am looking forward to seeing you all on April 2nd at the cooking demonstration (if not before). As you know, I am a member of the Indianapolis Hiking Club and there are many hikes every day to choose from (go to indyhike.org for the complete schedule). As a matter of fact, I am leading a hike on Tuesday, April 5th at Northwestway Park at 6:00 p.m. for beginners. I hope you can join me. Here’s to a BetterU and a BetterMe! :) Sandy, BetterU Chair

"Listen to your body..."

2011-03-16T21:46:00.007-04:00

Today I met with my trainer, Kara, who happens to be Peggy's trainer too. So Ms. Peggy I followed your advice not wanting to be late and actually showed up 15 mins early. I ate my cereal as usual before heading to the gym. After my warm up, we started working on new machines, pulleys, chin ups, and abs. This workout was beggining to kick my rear, and rumble my tummy. Kara, was very sweet and gave me time between exercises, encouraging me to deep breathe and "listen" to my body. When we would move about the gym , I would eyeball the nearest trash can just in case! How frustrating to not be able to work out at my full potential but with the pale, clammy and nauseated state I was in, I had to take several breaks. Normally, I would knock out my cardio routine after I meet with Kara. Today I couldn't even walk down the stairs, I was advised to take the elevator (prob due to my pallor, I think I made Kara nervous).
Upon my exit off the elevator, I had the most disgusting feeling and ended up vomiting in the nearest trash can. Might be TMI for some of you but this is what you go thru when you don't take care of yourself (and eat breakfast too close to your workout). A sweet woman, old enough to be my grandmother and in great shape I might add, brought me a towel and said "Bless your heart, sweetie." My thoughts are "yes, yes indeed bless my heart, that is why I am here over this trash can right now."
Afterwards, I felt like a new woman, but exhuasted! I came home, not completing my cardio workout and feeling somewhat defeated. I listened to my body, ended up napping for 3 hours! Guess I needed some rest! I am struggling with feeling like I failed today, since I couldn't complete the usual 2 hour routine, getting sick, and not living up to my own standards. But, I was bound to have asome bad days during this journey. In hindsight, I will make sure I have rested plenty, and might just have a banana several hours before I work out! Considering today's lesson more of an educational workout in understanding my body's signals.

Oh and at one point I asked Kara how many of her clients get sick during a workout and she actually smiled and said about 8 out of 10. Kara doesn't know that I got sick yet, but I am happy I could keep her stats in check! Ha!

A Word of Advice

2011-03-14T14:01:00.003-04:00

Today I was late getting to the gym and man did I pay an awful price! My trainer tried to "kill me." It was my fault...when the alarm clock went off at 6:30 am I inadvertently pushed the snooze (bad move). Since I was late my trainer tried to make up for lost time. My advice...don't be late for your session even if it is 10 or 15 minutes or you will pay dearly! :-)
After my session with my trainer I went to the water aerobics class for an hour. It was rough at first but being in the water helped me to recover from my earlier session. Again my friends, learn from my "torture" what ever you do, don't be late!

Meet Annette: An inspiration to us all

2011-03-14T08:57:00.000-04:00

Annette decided 2010 was her time to become a BetterU. She lost 55 lbs. Now she's part of the 2011 BetterU Challenge to maintain her motivation and to inspire others.

New Day for You

2011-03-13T23:20:00.001-04:00

Inertia. I really didn't feel like exercising last Thursday. I was tired, had a long next day, much house work (still not complete) to do and some family projects. Then I asked myself, what would I be doing if I didn't go to the gym? After hemming and hawing, I finally decided to go. And then I went Friday. And today. And I'll go tomorrow. And I feel darn good! After doing my one hour treadmill routine and weights, I stepped out into the sunshine smiling, grinning really. Sometimes you need a bit of inspiration. And sometimes you need to start over. Here's one of my bits of inspiration.

This is the Stuff....

2011-03-12T21:01:00.007-05:00

Well, as week one comes to a close, I am proud that I have ROCKED my 45min + cardio workouts! However, I am struggling to decided what route to take next....more diet changes, try new classes, swim laps... suggestions please!

I have made a lot of poor health choices (diet, lack of exercise, no annual physicals) since I graduated college. I find that once I get started, all it takes is one of life's bumps (this season potholes!) to lead me off path. I get frustrated and give up! It is usually a bump in my personal life or a significant event at work that leaves me emotionally drained, and then I can't seem to cheer myself on to go to the gym. We all know that when you have a bad day, once you have completed a workout a small ray of sunshine appears. A sense of accomplishment restored, the will to get up, get movin' and move on! ;)

My bump this week was my little brother moving out and onto Chicago, leaving me the lone child in this state. No parents, no brothers. Which of course I should feel blessed that my family is in good health just scattered about the states; BUT selfishly I want them all to myself, right here, right now. So emotionally drained, I am! Thanks to my husband, brother, and now my own self saying "keep it up, make 'em proud", I am still going! Today, wasn't the most fun day at the gym...with a lot of mind games I did run the farthest I have in years!

Just a song that comes to mind...
This is the stuff that drives me crazy,
This is the stuff that's getting to me lately,
In the middle of my little mess,
I forget I big I'm blessed...
This is the stuff.

The stuff is what matters, it tests us in time, which reveals our blessings. How thankful and blessed I feel for this opportunity to take charge of my health and offer support to other women empowering themselves as well!

An Ah Ha Moment

2011-03-10T21:31:00.002-05:00

Another day of trying to make a change in my lifestyle. I think that I have finally figured this thing out. That is, changes that are expected to be sustained don't happen over night. Yes I have increased my exercise program from almost none to working in the pool/gym a minimum of four days a week two hours a day. This to some may be such an exciting experience; but it is not the case for me. The workout is strenuous and very taxing. Long story short...I keep wondering when will the fun begin? Will this ever get easy, or will I struggle with this for the rest of my life? Just when I think I have gotten a routine udder my belt we're off to the next level. I guess this is where the realization sets in that, "Only the strong survive."

Dear Self, Why Do You Sabotage Me?

2011-03-10T20:06:00.002-05:00

I've known for quite a few weeks that March 7 was the launch date for the Better U Challenge....so what did I do leading up to that date? I ate like I was a bear preparing for hibernation! And I totally slacked off in my exercising...like I could store up that unused energy and unleash it all at once this week like a super-human Amazon woman!
But alas, eating and exercising does not work like that...we need an ongoing, steady flow of nourishment in and energy out to get the maximum benefit to our heart and other vital organs. So little white powdered donuts, bah bye! Valentines Day candy marked 90% off--no more hopping into my shopping cart.
I'm ready now, Better U Challenge. From now on, sensible eating, steady exercise and a Better Me.

What About Bob?

2011-03-10T00:00:00.002-05:00

Ever watch 'What About Bob?' with Bill Murray as the neurotic patient? In it, Dr. Leo urges Bob to take 'baby steps' to reach his goals (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3JPa2mvSQ4&feature=related). That's what I'm doing here, baby steps. Hopefully with more steps forward than backwards.

Since last week I've been baby stepping through treadmill and circuit routines with my Lifetime Fitness trainer Everett. And with suggestions from Dr. Branyas, I've started baby stepping my way to better nutrition, such as adding almonds as a snack and yogurt to add protein to my typical breakfast of cereal. Of course, babies do fall...but that's why we have the BetterU program, to help us baby step our way to a healthier life.

Let the Fun Begin!

2011-03-09T16:31:00.002-05:00

Now that our journey has officially begun I an excited yet cautious. I have been down the road of weight loss many times in the past. But...I continue to remind myself that this trip will be different.
Working with my personal trainer, Kara, has been a pleasant experience. (We actually started working together last week.) This week I amped up my exercise by joining Team Weight Loss (a 4X week treadmill exercise program). And if that was not enough I also started water aerobic 4 days a week. I figure if I "slip" in the caloric consumption department I'll have some "wiggle room" in the exercise department. If you get too close to me you will hear my body screaming from "the burn." For the last 3 month I have had no exercise and now 4 days a week, wow!

Carla on WTHR

2011-03-08T15:49:00.000-05:00

Carla did an outstanding job explaining the BetterU Challenge to Angela Cain during WTHR's Focus segment. Watch it here: http://www.wthr.com/story/817967/focus

Heart: What a simple word for such a complex organ.

2011-03-07T10:48:00.006-05:00

Heart=English

Il cuore=Italian

El Corazon=Spanish

Le Coeur=French

So many beautiful ways to say heart! Being a nurse, I generally think of the heart as a functioning organ, for my patients. I think of the heart as a beating mechanism, a powerhouse that allows for life; but I never thought of my own heart beating for my own life. Sounds crazy, I know! To be a nurse and not think of my own heart? Well, I am also a woman, wife, friend, daughter, sister, etc. As we all know, being WOMEN sets us up for taking care of others and putting their needs before our own...just like a nurse, mother, wife.

Also, being WOMEN, we are learning that heart disease (not such a beautiful word) is the number one killer of women age 20 and over. Fact: One woman dies from heart disease (there's that disgusting word again) every minute! So, having the honor and opportunity to be a BetterU Challenger and having increased my knowledge about heart disease, healthy choices and lifestyle changes, I must admit that my view of what my own heart means is changing.

Now that I am acknowledging my own heart, I have questioned what the simple word HEART means. Love, health, life? Initially I thought heart meant health. Taking care of my patients, means keeping them healthy. Well, why not take care of myself, and become healthier? Which in turn means that my lifespan will increase. Which will end in the great result of being a HEALTHier me, living a longer LIFE, with much more LOVE to share. What does your heart mean to you? How far are you willing to go to keep that precious powerhouse healthy?

This week marks week 1 of our 12 week journey. My personal goal this week is to focus on my cardiac workouts, increasing their length, resistance and level. I look forward to improving my hearts endurance, no matter what sweat equity is required! I know that I will be more successful some weeks than others. I hope to learn how to be my own best cheerleader and put myself first through this process!

Go Red For Women to learn how to Love a Heart Healthy Life!

Natale

Better U: Week 1

2011-03-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

The Better U program for our four challengers -- and for you, if you've signed up to join them -- begins today. The Getting Started section of Week 1 on the Better U website asks you to think of two women who are important to you. The odds are that one of the three of you will develop heart disease. Now is a great time to reach out to those women and ask them to join you in this journey.

If you haven't yet signed up to participate in the free, 12-week Better U program, you can do so by clicking the link at the top of this page or clicking right here.

The Better U tool will help you set a goal for the week in at least one of the following areas:

Physical activity
Healthy eating
Lowering your heart disease risk
Making lasting changes

You'll also be encourage to choose way to reward yourself when you meet that goal.

We hope to make this blog a place for dynamic community conversation. Leave a comment below telling us what goal you've selected or how you intend to reward yourself for a job well done.

I can't wait to hear from Peggy, Carla, Annette and Natale to see how the first week of the Better U program is shaping up for them.

Amy Magan
2010 Better U Participant

Are you ready for a Better U?

2011-03-03T05:18:00.001-05:00

How often have you said to yourself, "I'm starting my diet (or exercise program) on Monday"? Well, this coming Monday, March 7 is THE day.

On Monday, March 7, the four 2011 Better U challengers -- Annette, Carla, Natale and Peggy -- will lead the charge toward better heart health for hundreds of women in Indianapolis and beyond. You can join them.

Sign up to begin shaping your Better U by enrolling at www.GoRedForWomen.org/BetterU. Choose March 7 as your start date.

The free, online program will help you improve your heart health by focusing on small improvements -- one each week for 12 weeks. Our Better U challengers will be using this blog to share their successes (and challenges). We hope you'll leave comments here to share yours as well.

Sign up today. Invite a friend or two to join you. Because this time, we really are starting on Monday.

2011 BetterU Challenge set to begin on March 7

2011-02-24T14:44:00.000-05:00

Because 90 percent of women have at least one risk factor for heart disease, the American Heart Association is encouraging everyone to take the free 12-week BetterU Challenge.

Women who enroll will have access to a variety of online tools and will receive daily tips in their e-mail inboxes.

In Indianapolis, the American Heart Association has chosen four women to be the "face" of the challenge. Those ladies will be introduced at the Go Red For Women Luncheon on Feb. 25 and will encourage all 1,000 attendees to enroll in the program.

We encourage you to follow the progress of our four challengers right here on this blog. Better yet, take the challenge with them. Enroll today at www.GoRedForWomen.org/BetterU.

WomenHeart hosting event for women with heart disease

2010-04-15T10:43:00.000-04:00

WomenHeart Indianapolis is inviting local women who live with heart disease to attend a fun night of food and drinks. The evening will offer women with heart disease a chance to meet other women like them. WomenHeart offers a peer-to-peer support program for women living with heart disease. The free event will be held at 6 p.m. on April 29 at Arthur M. Glick JCC, 6701 Hoover Road. To RSVP, visit http://tinyurl.com/IndyWomenHeartevent or e-mail marie@womenheart.org. For more information on WomenHeart, log onto www.womenheart.org. The American Heart Association is proud to support WomenHeart.

Subtle changes

2010-04-02T22:52:00.002-04:00

Over at my personal blog, I posted some "before" and "after" pictures of myself -- one from last fall and one taken just the other day. The transformation is pretty awesome, if I do say so myself.

While I'm enjoying the changing shape of my body, what I'm really grateful for is the subtle changes that I'm finding as I continue this journey, even though the Better U challenge is officially over.

I'm talking about things like:

I went to the playground with my kids the other day. Instead of sitting on a bench watching them (as I would have before), I ran around, chasing my youngest, laughing while I was at it.
My last trip to the movie theater found me sipping a Diet Coke and nothing else. No Twizzlers. No popcorn. No peanut M&Ms. That's a big savings of calories and money!
I took my kids downtown to enjoy the Final Four festivities today and instead of driving around looking for the closest parking, I chose a free parking lot that was "only" a mile away from Lucas Oil Stadium.

There are still plenty of things I need to work on -- getting more strength training in my workouts, passing up sweets -- but I feel like many of these choices are becoming second nature for me. And that feels great!

The end; the beginning...

2010-03-29T20:31:00.002-04:00

Sunday March 28 marked our last official day as participants in the 12-week Go Red Better U Challenge -- but life goes on.
To get that message across on Friday, the always-benevolent American Heart Association in Indy sent all five of us challengers an incredible edible basket of fruit flowers, along with other motivational goodies -- a large sippie cup for water, (what else do you call it? That's what comes to mind...vocabulary now reduced to a 3-year-old) a pedometer, a squeegie ball and a cool little pin-on button with the single word: START. For 12 weeks, our color has been red; now it's bright apple green. I get it, I get it...
Don't quit; don't make an end: START.
True, we're on our own now: no more trainers at Lifetime, no more cardiology appointments with the wise and amusing Dr.Branyas, no more facial treatments with Dr. Turkle's staff, dietician sessions, etc. etc. etc.
START.
That's really what we did last fall, when we interviewed for and committed to this program. For me, it really was a brand new ballgame. The writing was on the lab results: cholesterol up and weight up. Throw in family history and a total lack of cardio, plus some other bad habits, and I was ready for a change.
The heart association has provided the tools. They got me STARTED.
It's been really rewarding to see results: 9 lbs. weight loss since January, plus numbers that are all in the normal healthy range. IN cardio, I can rev my heart up to 135-140, and I have nothing but improvement to look forward to on that horizon (well, within limits; I am 63, and age does dictate to a certain extent how high I want it to be).
But I know I'm going to continue to lose weight; I know it, because I'm not in a rush this time, just taking it nice and easy.
START it is, every day....and like Dr. B said at that first breakfast, if you have a bad day, don't beat yourself up; just do it right the next day.
START.
Look forward to the future, especially July 5, when the five challengers will reunite. Unitl then...well, you know.

The Benefits

2010-03-24T22:36:00.004-04:00

I did it! I got in my car after work yesterday, workout bag already in the car, and I just drove to Lifetime Fitness without thinking about it. Don't get me wrong, my brain wanted to think about what I was doing but I just couldn't let that happen. Self-talk all the way baby and when I got there I happily parked a little further away than I usually do and I practically skipped to the front door. I felt like I had a delicious little secret and it felt good to follow through!

Kara was surprised to see me - that was fun. I took to the treadmill just a wee bit easier today - that was fun. I remembered some of the routines I've learned and did as much as I could to work up to pain and sweat - that was fun too!

But the biggest fun and a BENEFIT of working out that will keep me going back - ahhh, he was cute, like a teddy bear, with the deepest dimples, the sweetest smile and a flirty little wink to boot! Now ladies...I did not pretend to get stuck in the leg press machine. I really could not remember how to get in and out. Imagine my delight when this smooth fellow walked over to show me how to properly use the machine. And he doesn't work there so he was not duty bound - I think he thought I was cute - that's my story, my fantasy and I'm going with it! That's all I needed today to walk around my office doing lunges and squats. Seriously! That's all I need tomorrow to hit the treadmill at work and that's just about all I need to keep my training appointment!

Hope he's there! Leg press, here I come! I found a new motivator and it's workin' for me! Find your motivator and meet me at the gym~

That's all for now~

Sweet dreams!!

Never too late to begin again...

2010-03-22T19:05:00.007-04:00

Hello!!

Well friends and family...here I am again. Not sure if you're still following but I'm still trying to make this change stick!

One thing I can say that I am forever grateful for is God's unending grace and mercy. I appreciate His kindness when He says there is no failure. Because ladies and gentlemen, can I just tell you that the struggle continues, especially since I'm not working towards the fashion show runway. Now I'm working towards the rest of my life and though some of my changes have stuck...some of them have run out of glue.

Kara sent an email recently that says we still have until April 15 to workout at Lifetime Fitness. Melissa sent an email that says we can be in touch for nutrition help until infinity. I'm seeing Dr. Vohra, sleep doctor, tomorrow and soon I will have one more visit with Dr. Nancy Branyas, cardiologist.

These are all great things for me to look forward to and so I am looking forward and upward. The stuff I ate before this last 2 minutes of blogging is now gone and I can't do anything about my past bad choices. I hope I'm not bumming anybody out...I just want to encourage some lady who is just like me...I am determined to see a brand new and better me, no matter what. I can do that and so can you! Will you write back and let me know how you're doing? In the meantime, you can still get fit with me by going to: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3063592

Also, stop by and visit http://www.goredforwomen.org/betteru/index.aspx

And, I just found out last week that the 5 of us Indy Challengers have been invited to ride on St. Vincent Hospital's parade float on July 5th! Another goal, Thank you Lord!

Here's an old pic I found of me recently...I like it so I thought I'd share!

Cheers~

Take three minutes for your health....

2010-03-16T12:52:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all who were able to attend the Indianapolis Go Red For Women Luncheon and see our fabulous BetterU Challengers in the fashion show. They looked fantastic!!

By participating in the Luncheon or simply by reading this blog, you’ve begun to empower yourself, and the other women in your life, to take control of your heart health. Now you’re ready for step two – and we’re here to help you get started!

The American Heart Association has a new resource to help you improve your overall cardiovascular health and reduce your risk for our No. 1 health threat, cardiovascular disease. Please take three minutes to complete My Life Check, a health assessment tool that will help you understand your current level of heart health, assess your own health needs, and create a customized action plan that will move you closer to your personal health goals.

I also encourage you to forward My Life Check at http://mylifecheck.heart.org/ to your family and friends and help them begin their own journey to better cardiovascular health. Thanks for helping to spread the word!

Today I made a plan...

2010-03-10T21:29:00.004-05:00

and executed on the plan! That's right...after getting through the past few days without the limo, the paparrazi, the fashion, the firemen - whewww - it's been tough getting back to normal but now my work really begins. No longer working towards the fashion show which by the way, hope you've seen the pictures, but now working towards LIFE and the new me! These next 2 weeks are important but I'm really excited about the next 2 months, the next 2 years. My body loves exercise, whether it knows it or not (LOL) and I love what changes are happening inside and outside of my body. I hope you're all still working hard and encouraging yourselves. That's the key...encourage yourself...motivate yourself and as Kara, my personal trainer said to me last week..."make yourself a priority!" Every day since the fashion show has not been perfect but everyday has been a brand new start full of brand new opportunities to make the RIGHT choices on my own. I'll let you in on a little secret. I have not been writing down what I eat but I started recording today...very enlightening and an extremely disciplined approach to controlled eating. I love it!

Well, I'll sign off for now - keep on keeping on and don't lose sight of the new and improved you that is a major art in progress...yes, I meant art...you and I are both works in progress but the outcome is pure art, pure beauty. Go for it...we deserve it!

Cheers,
Jessica