Curvy Leprechaun

New Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Tue, 30 Jul 2013 18:35:00 +0000

Created a new blog for my foster parenting experiences. I'm not sure If I'm going to leave this one up or not but please feel free to follow the new one. I wish you all luck with your weight loss!

Quirky Foster Mommy

Changes to Come

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Wed, 29 May 2013 18:00:00 +0000

So, as you can tell I've been MIA for a while. Hubby and I started our Foster Parenting classes and my world has completely turned upside down. To all of those moms who keep up with their healthy lifestyles, I give you MAJOR props. My kids aren't even here yet and my diet is the last thing on my mind. Between getting the house ready, taking training classes and reading every foster parent/baby-toddle book I can get my hands on, I just don't have the energy to focus on it. Hopefully once I get the swing of things I'll be able to ease back into it, but I know it won't be like it was before. I'm just glad I dropped that weight before the kids come. I will still be maintaining, and I'm sure chasing after kids will keep me active.

That being said, I've decided to revamp my website. I don't see myself focusing on health or weight loss enough to keep things as they are. While I'm not planning on completely letting go of it, my priorities are definitely changing. I'd love for my few readers to stay with me during these changes, but I completely understand those who will leave. I am however still here to help encourage and support you guys on your blogs as you continue your weight loss journey.

FMM: ABC’s of Me & Weigh In

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:14:00 +0000

Short post today, maintained my weight from last week, yay! Busy with finishing the school for the semester and getting the house ready for our home study. Our first Foster Care training class is this Saturday. I can't wait!

If you’ve taken part in FMM then you know the rules. If you’re new, please take a moment to answer this week’s question on your own blog then add your link in the comments section here at: www.alltheweigh.com so we can all see your FMM questions and answers. Please invite your blog readers to add their links here too so everyone has to opportunity to be seen. The idea is to connect with other awesome bloggers so take a moment to post your own FMM post and comment on a couple of other posts. Now it’s time for this week’s topic!

FMM: ABC’s of Me

Here’s how it works…you’ll choose topics about yourself, your likes, dislikes, etc. according to each letter in the alphabet, and share a little with us. Oh shhh…you know you love it.

A) Audiobooks have rekindled my love for books. When you work at a computer all day with little interaction with co-workers you can go through a lot of audiobooks.
B) I could spend an entire day with my nose in a book. I LOVE books.
C) I love the flavor of coffee (with milk and sugar).
D) I am and will always be a Daddy's Girl

E) I am NOT a fan of exercise. Despite the benefits I've gotten from it or the mood enhancers, I am not one of those people that enjoys working out.
F) My husband and I are getting our Foster Care license
G) I am the Godmother of my best friend's daughter, Jocelyn

Easter 2013

H) I ordered this tote bag sporting my future last name when I got engaged and guess what, I really do rock his last name.


"H" is for Herrin

I) I want an iPhone
J) I love black jelly beans
K) My husband Kyle is my best friend. Seriously. Not in the mushy "oh he's perfect and I want to be with him 24/7" way. But in the "I can be completely myself around him without fear of judgment and I know he'll accept me" way. He's the only person in this world I feel like I can really trust and count on to be there for me no matter what. <3
L) This is my example of what Real Love is:

Mom & Dad

M) My dream since I was little was to one day be called "Mommy"
N) My niece and nephews are the loves of my life!

Christian & Caleb

Brooklyn

Baby Aiden

O) I am NOT very organized, but I love organization
P) I LOVE podcasts! I go through these stages where I'm interested in a specific topic and nerd out on as many podcasts on that subject as possible (marriage, sex, fitness, foster care).
Q) I enjoy peace & quiet (although I realize once kids come in the house I won't get it very often)
R) I love the rain. Walking in it, dancing in it, kissing in it. It makes me want to curl up with a blanket and a good book.
S) I love to sing! (Just not in front of people)
T) I was named after the "Tammy" movie series

U) I will be transferring to UTA this Fall to finish my teaching degree

V) I need a VACATION! I miss the Bahamas.

Honeymoon Vacation

W) I LOVE Winter. I wish it were cold outside 365 days of the year. But alas, I live in Texas and as much as I hate hot weather, I love everything else about it. Texas is home.
X) I have never had an X-Ray done (unless you count dental)
Y) I was the Yearbook Editor in high school
Z) The last time I went to the zoo was for my niece's first birthday. Most babies have to be coached into eating their "smash cake". Brooklyn however went head first into it as soon as we put it in front of her.


Brooklyn's 1st B-Day

Now it’s your turn! Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments!! Happy Monday friends!!!!!!!!

Big News + Weigh In + FMM: Inside My Head

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:50:00 +0000

Wow... so much has happened this week. I have big news... Hubby and I have decided to get our foster to adopt license! Basically that means we'll be taking in a foster child (or two) and taking care of them until either their parents can take care of them, a relative adopts them or *fingers crossed* WE get to adopt them. YAY and YIKES! I'm so excited and super nervous but I can't wait! Turning in our application to the agency we picked today. We've settled on a child 0-2 years old or two siblings 0-4 years old.

So got on the scale... 206.6 so 1.4 gained. It's to be expected that my weight will fluctuate a couple pounds back and forth as long as I'm in "maintain" mode.

Inside My Head

I like… reading
I don’t like… waiting
I love… my husband (especially because he so lovingly puts up with my mood swings)
I dream of…being a mom
I wonder… if I'm going to drive my friends crazy with all my baby talk
I know…they will still love me either way (even though some might start ignoring me)
I went… to my friend's game night on Saturday
I think… I'm going to have a one track mind for a while (and all baby/toddler related)
I plan… to get A LOT of school work done tonight
I regret… putting my homework/projects off until the last minute
I do… my best thinking in the car
I drink… on rare occasions
I wish… the next couple months would speed by
I am… super excited about starting our foster to adopt journey
I am not… looking forward to placements leaving our home
I hope… I can make a difference in these kids' lives
I want… a child to love
I sometimes… daydream about my future kids (both foster and adopted)
I always… regret the things I say when I'm mad
I can… provide these kids with a safe and loving home
I cannot… wait to get our first foster placement
I avoid… confrontations
I will… do my best to focus on work when I'm on the clock

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions. Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments! Happy Monday, lovies!

Weigh In + FMM: Twenty Questions

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:12:00 +0000

Guess what? I got on the scale yesterday and saw 205.2, um yeah... that's 5 pounds lost. WHAT?!?! There's no way that's possible b/c I had Mongolian, pizza, donuts, chocolate and chicken fried steak last week (Did I really just admit that on a blog that focuses on losing weight? *sigh*). And while I went to pick up the Just Dance game from my mom's, I haven't used it yet. So maybe last week's gain was really just retaining water. Guess I'll find out this next week. (But I do need to learn to pace myself with the junk food, even when maintaining.)

Twenty Questions

1. Share something that you enjoy doing when you’re alone. Singing
2. What do you plan to eat next? Cantaloupe
3. When did you first travel on a plane? Where did you go? I was maybe 8, we went to Disneyworld... I might have screamed a little at take off... (I remember it being more of an excited noise but everyone else remembers differently)
4. Do you currently have a crush on someone? If so, share a few of the reasons why. After two years of marriage I can honestly say I'm still crushing on my husband. Granted there are days when he's being a total butthead and I just want to lock him out of the house :) But there are also days when I look at him and I get that girly grin on my face (you know the one). Like when he re-tucks the covers around me in the morning when he leaves for work. Or when he nerds out over his Kung Fu stuff.
5. List one thing that disgusts you that probably wouldn’t bother someone else. Mayonnaise
6. If you could buy a new car tomorrow (and money was no object) what would you buy? I'd buy an old sports car (newly refinished of course)
7. Who was the first person who broke your heart? Drew
8. If you could spend the night with a celebrity tonight, who would it be? Like a sleepover? LOL. Melissa McCarthy. (I'd pick Gerald Butler but I am a married woman *wink*)
9. Are you a morning person or a night person? I'm more of a night person than a morning person but I don't usually stay up too late. Though I'm a lot more likely to stay up late than get up early.
10. What’s your favorite board game? Cranium
11. Can you play an instrument? If so, what do you play? I use to play the flute and the piano but I haven't played either since I was a kid.
12. What is the last thing you ate? A chicken biscuit
13. Do you wear a watch? Nope.
14. Do you go to church? Yes, although I've miss more Sundays than I'd like to admit lately
15. Do you ever wish on stars? Yes!
16. Have you ever been on a motorcycle? Nope, they scare me but I'd love to try it sometime.
17. What is the last thing you purchased? A chicken biscuit, a Diet Dr. Pepper fountain drink and two litters of water (I was in such a hurry when I left the house this morning I forgot to get breakfast, or water).
18. How big is your bed? Queen
19. What size shoe do you wear? 8.5
20. What are you looking forward to most in the coming week? My friend's game night. It's one of the few times I actually get to play board/card games!

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions. Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments! Happy Monday!

Weigh In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: TV, Movies and Me

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:23:00 +0000

So, after another week of indulging (and sometimes overindulging) I gained. 210.2 up 3.4 pounds. Yeah, I saw that coming, I've had a couple of depression episodes lately and went back to old habits of eating when upset. I think all these pregnancy issues are getting to me. My doctor even switched up my medicine because I'm having trouble caring about anything anymore. UGH, maintaining is fine, going backwards is not. Such a "do as I say, not as I do moment". So time to cut back on the food (just a tad, after all I had donuts two weekends in a row) and add some activity back in. Time to make use of those Just Dance games again.

TV, Movies and Me

1. If you could be a recurring star on a show that is currently on TV, which show would you choose? I'd be on Castle and be Kate Beckett, both because she's badass and so I could make out with Nathan Fillion :)

2. Name the show that you are most embarrassed to admit that you love. Sister Wives. I do NOT agree with polygamy and think it's completely ridiculous, but I love that show! It's just so fascinating.
3. Name one show that you’ve never seen and would love to watch. Game of Thrones, I'd love to see what all the hype is about.
4. Do you ever go to movies alone? Not anymore but I did back when I was single (and before Kyle moved in). It's very peaceful to sit in a room full of strangers and just enjoy a movie.
5. If you could only watch one TV show for the next year, which show would you choose and why? Walking Dead. I can't wait to watch it! (I wait to watch shows until the DVDs are out and either rent it through Netflix or buy it)
6. If you could star in one reality show, which one would it be and why? Yikes, I don't think I'd want to be in a reality show. Way too much drama for me. The only one I like is Biggest Loser but I don't think I could handle all that pressure. (and now I've already lost too much weight on my own to even qualify)
7. If someone rented a billboard for you, what would it say? Some romantic mushy-gushy message from the hubby. He's still new at the concept so it would mean a lot.
8. Who is the most famous person with whom you have been in the same room? Um, Reba McEntire
9. If you were chosen to be a contestant on a TV game show, which show would you want to be on? Family Feud!
10. If there was a movie being made about you, which actor would you choose to play you? Melissa McCarthy but she'd have to grow her hair out a bit and dye it red. She's just awesome :)

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions! Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments! Happy Monday, lovely humans!

Friend Makin’ Mondays: Childhood Flashbacks + Weigh In

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:43:00 +0000

So I've been a little absent on here lately... and a lot of that has to do with the fact that I "unofficially" took time off from my diet. I was beginning to feel like it was taking over my life and I wanted to just enjoy things again. I ate junk food. I ate burgers, fries and greasy Chinese food. I even had cheesecake and Pear Ale. I didn't gorge everything in sight but there wasn't really anything off limits. I knew I'd gain some weight but I was OK with that because I needed to find a happy medium. I got on the scale for the first time in weeks this weekend... 206.8 Somehow I lost 0.8 pounds. I was shocked. I haven't worked out at all, I quit counting calories and I've been enjoying food. However, I'm starting to see now that while I'm enjoying food, my portion sizes have gone down. I also wasn't having late night munchies because I was fuller. Granted I could have lost a lot more weight had I been working out at the same time, but I'm done stressing over this. For now I'm content to simply maintain this weight for a while.

Childhood Flashbacks

1. Did you have a set bedtime as a child? If so, what was it? I did when I was in elementary and middle school, I think it was around 8:30. I remember getting caught more than once with a flashlight under my covers because I wanted to stay up reading. Eventually my parents installed a reading light next to my bed and told me I could read in bed as long as I didn't stay up all night.
2. Were you taught to be a member of the “Clean Plate Club?” Did it have affect your eating habits as an adult? I was but it was usually geared more towards my veggies. I wasn't big on vegetables as a kid unless they were raw. In fact I didn't start enjoying them until I began my weight loss journey.
3. Share one thing that you were not allowed to do as a child. We were not allowed to watch anything revolving around witches or magic/sorcery.
4. What is the cheapest gas price you can remember? I vaguely remember them being about $2.30 when I started driving.
5. What was your favorite thing on the playground? The swings (even the fat kids could enjoy them)
6. Share one thing that your parents always made you do that you didn’t like doing. Cleaning my room! I HATED cleaning.
7. Do you remember your first kiss? If so, share the details! Haha... I was 18 and had already graduated high school. His name was Drew and I believe my first kiss involved tongue.
8. Did you prefer to play inside or outside? Inside, I was a bookworm growing up
9. What was your favorite TV show growing up? Saved by the Bell and Boy Meets World
10. Share one awesome childhood memory. Staying up all night Christmas Eve talking about boys with my sister. I don't know why it's one of my favorite memories, I guess because we weren't very close as kids (she's 7 years older)
Bonus: Share a picture of yourself as a child.

I know, I'm adorable...

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions! Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments! Happy Monday, my friends!

Friend Makin’ Mondays: Ten Questions

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 15:18:00 +0000

No weigh in this week. The beginning of the week we started painting and then I got a cold. So my weight has been the last thing on my mind this week. I'm not even sure where the scale is (haven't put the bathroom back together after painting).

Ten Questions

1. Describe the kind of home you would live in if money were no object. Five bedroom, two story house. With pillars in the front and a wrap around porch with a swing.
2. Are you more conservative in your actions or more rebellious? I'm somewhere in between.I guess I'm more conservative now.
3. Would you go to Mars even if it meant you could never return to Earth? No way, too hot.
4. Name one song that makes you want to dance every time you hear it. "I'm Sexy and I Know It" Best workout song ever!
5. Share one thing that you wish you could go back and do differently in your life. I wouldn't have been in such a hurry to jump into the dating scene when I turned 18.
6. Share at least one accomplishment that people wouldn’t expect you to be proud of. I got a job where I can have weekends off with the hubby.
7. Describe one delicious thing that you’ve eaten lately. Dark chocolate kisses
8. If you had a theme song that would play every time you entered a room, which song would you choose? I'm Sexy and I Know It, not so much b/c I think I am, but I think if I heard it enough times in reference to myself, I'd start to believe it.
9. Had technology enhanced your life, or has it over complicated your life? Enhanced, I met the hubby online :)
10. If you could get paid to do any job, which job would you choose? I’d be an author.

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions! Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments. Happy Monday, friends!!!!

Weigh In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: Pondering Personal Thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:56:00 +0000

Daddy & Baby

Proud Mommy

Baby Aiden at 1 week old

So "30 Day Shred" was a bust since day 4 my sister-in-law went into labor a few weeks early. It's been crazy around here ever since. To top it off my husband and I FINALLY bought "real" couches (I've only had cheap hand-me downs and futons since I moved out on my own) and decided the duplex needed to be painted and decorated. So I guess I'll be putting 30 Day on hold, I'm tired enough just painting everyday.

Although I didn't stick with my "no scale" plan, I have limited the amount of times I step on it. And surprisingly despite eating out a few times and a "Wine and Cheese" party I went to on Friday, I stepped on the scale at 207.6 which is .4 down from my weigh in 2 weeks ago. Not a huge loss, but I'm fine with maintaining and/or losing slowly for right now. It's nice to not stress over every little thing and track every single calorie.

Pondering Personal Thoughts

1. How old would you feel if you didn’t know how old you are? Well I'm still in school so a little younger than I really am, but I'm married so I can't go much younger. Maybe 22
2. Are you the kind of friend you’d want to have as a friend? I honestly don't know. Sometimes
3. Look back at the last year. When did you feel most excited about something in your life? When I fit into size 16 again, it was an incredible feeling
4. Have you ever been with someone and not spoken a word, only to walk away thinking that was the best conversation ever? Um, no.
5. If you won 100 million dollars Monday, would you continue doing whatever you usually do on Tuesdays? No, I would be quitting my job and going to school full time instead.
6. What would you do differently if you knew no one would judge you? Adopt a child (despite his or her race). Unfortunately, my family would never accept them and that child deserves to be accepted by their family.
7. Share something you do differently than most people. Write in a cursive-print hybrid
8. What’s one thing that you really want to do that you’ve never done? Become a mom
9. If you had to move out of state right now, where would you move? I'd hate leaving Texas. Can I cheat and say Oklahoma?
10. What is the one thing that you’d like to change most about the world? The cost of adoption

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions! Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments! Have a happy Monday, friends!

30 Day Shred

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 03:00:00 +0000

So last Wednesday I wrote a post about the gym... and I never published it. I wasn't sure if I just needed to vent or if leaving the gym was something I needed to do. (Also the hubby came home before I hit "publish" so I closed my laptop to talk to him. He went to the gym without me that night. I laid in bed and enjoyed my book. I had planned on starting "30 Day Shred" with my sister on Friday. That never happened. We got too caught up in our weekend. So I figured I'd start on Monday. Nope. Relatives came in town unexpectedly.

So Tuesday/Thursday is our normal workout night. I knew the hubby would be going to the gym. I also knew he would be going without me. Right now the gym isn't where I need to be. I don't know if that means freezing my account again or just closing it, but I think I need something less boring and mundane to hold my interest. So instead of laying around like a sloth, I decided it was time to put on my big girl panties and suck it up. I started "30 Day Shred". It wasn't the 1st day of the month or even the 1st day of the week, but there was no sense in putting it off any longer.

I had the hubby take pictures and measurements before leaving for the gym, kissed him goodbye and turned on the DVD. And then Jillian Michaels kicked my ass. It was brutal. Sadly it wasn't that it was all that advanced. She wasn't telling me to do super complicated moves. I'd done almost all of them before at varies times. But there was no break. No resting in between. I understand why. If you want a 20 minute workout, you have to workout for 20 minutes. Otherwise you can get an hour long DVD. This is for those people who want to get their workout over with and enjoy the rest of their night. It's what I asked for, but YIKES. I didn't realize how out of shape I was.

There were several times I had to stop and gasp for air or chug down some water. I don't doubt I'll still be at Level 1 past day 10 which means it may end up being more like a "45 Day Shred". However by the end, I was still alive. Sore, but alive. And the best part? I had the rest of the night to do whatever I wanted. I was curled in bed with a book with the hubby got home from the gym :)

I know there are still demons I need to face. I have a block about making it to Onederland and I really need to examine that and see what's going on. I think I'm taking a break from the scale for a while. I haven't been on it since Sunday (when I saw the gain from a weekend of too much food). As far as I know it will still say 208, but it may have changed since then. It's going to be hard to not check my weight since I usually check it daily, but right now I'm trying to focus on things other than the number on that scale. Maybe I'll wait till the end of my 30 days (or 45) before I get back on it. It might also help me quit sabotaging myself. Hopefully "30 Day Shred" is what I need to push myself over this hump.

Day 1 Stats:

Weight	208
Body Fat	38.90%
Neck	14.5
Chest	45.5
Waist	44
Hips	46.5
Bicep (R )	13.5
Bicep (L)	13.5
Thigh (R )	23
Thigh (L)	23
Calf (R )	16.5
Calf (L)	16

On the bright side when I was writing down my measurements I noticed my first entry back in January of last year:

Weight	268	-60
Body Fat	46.00%	-7.10%
Neck	15.5	-1
Chest	52.5	-7
Waist	55.5	-11.5
Hips	55.5	-9
Bicep (R )	16.5	-3
Bicep (L)	17	-3.5
Thigh (R )	27.5	-4.5
Thigh (L)	27.5	-4.5
Calf (R )	19.5	-3
Calf (L)	19.5	-3.5

The Gym (Written a Week Ago)

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 02:19:00 +0000

****This is the blog I wrote last Wednesday but never posted****

I'm suppose to be going with my husband to the gym tonight.This was suppose to be me getting back on track, the beginning to my re-commitment to fitness. The idea almost brought me to tears as I left work. I don't want to go to the gym. I don't want to re-commit myself to fitness. I want my life back. I want to enjoy things again, to look forward to them. For almost a whole year I focused on little more than weight loss. I lost more than 55 pounds. Is it really so terrible that I've only lost 10 pounds since the New Year? It's not like I have 100 pounds to go...

I look at the 35 pounds left that I want to loose and honestly, I'm in no hurry. I'm proud of myself for what I've done but I want to enjoy life again. This doesn't mean that I'm going back to the way I was before. I still plan on getting to my goal, but I'm tired of feeling like I have to constantly make excuses for WHY I'm not going to the gym right now. I'm tired of people EXPECTING me to lose the weight. This was suppose to be about me.

I have this block about the gym right now and I think it all boils down to the fact that I started losing weight for everyone else. The more people saw me lose the more they EXPECTED me to lose more. I started caring too much about what they thought. If they'd think I was a hypocrite if they knew I ate a REAL burger last night (though a Jr.) or that I have dessert (although a small amount) every day. And why shouldn't I? Unless it's eaten as an emotional reaction to something there is nothing wrong with me enjoying my food.
I eat smaller portions all day so I have that 100-200 calories left for something "bad for me". I am a chocoholic. I have the BIGGEST sweet tooth. As long as I'm continuing to lose (or maintain weight) and don't venture into "pre diabetes" I fail to see why that is a bad thing. Yes there are healthier things I could eat, but I don't want to.

Maybe I'm just rebelling, or maybe I'm just tired of feeling like I "owe" it to people to lose weight. I don't know. What I do know is somehow on this journey I got lost. I'm not sure what to do next. Part of me wants to quit the gym, to lose the rest through more fun methods like the Wii games and work out videos. I don't feel like I have to sacrifice my entire night that way. I also don't have to get so paranoid about other people that the stress makes me ill.

I know I am going to need to face these demons one day, but I'm not sure that's the best way to do it. Forcing myself to go just seems to either allow me to not push myself or give up too soon.

Weigh In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: Q&A

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 15:34:00 +0000

Ugh, it's Monday again. Where did my weekend go? Thursday (Feb 21) was my birthday (I turned 25, yay me) so I basically took off of my diet. This included too much food, lots of cake, and even alcohol. By yesterday I was feeling the sluggishness take over. Well it's a new week and it's time to get back on track. The hubby's knee is finally healed so it's also back to the gym we go.

It was no surprise that I gained this week, although I have no idea how much since my food/alcohol wasn't completely digested by the time I got on the scale Sunday morning. However, 207.4 was the number that showed up so that's what I'm going with. 3 pound gain :( It's sad but expected. I can't not do the work and expect to get the results I want.

Questions and Answers

1. Did you watch the Oscars? If so, who did you enjoy seeing most? Nope, never do.
2. Do you drink meal replacement shakes, smoothies, etc? I use to drink protein shakes and fruit smoothies but I haven't been very good at getting up early enough to make them the past month.
3. Share one thing you have done to help someone in the last week? I offered to help my best friend and her hubby move the last few loads into their new apartment (although technically we aren't helping them until tonight). They needed a truck and their uncle kept canceling on them.
4. What is the tastiest thing you ate last week? Vermicelli with BBQ Pork at Pho 95. So NOT in my diet but it was my birthday and I haven't had it in over a year.

5. Think of one fun thing that you could do this week without spending any money to do it. The hubby and I are going to get pictures taken on Wednesday (which is already paid for) and I'm going to get massage and my boudoir pictures done on Friday (which is also already paid for).
6. Share one place that you’ve been to and would like to visit again. Disney World. Hubs thinks we should wait till we have kids. :(

7. Do you prefer Facebook or Twitter? Facebook. I have a Twitter for work purposes but I don't use it.

8. What is your favorite vegetable? Broccoli
9. Share a goal that you have for the month of March. My sister and I decided to do either Jillian Micheals 30 Day Shred or Ripped in 30 in March. This should help me get back on track and finally reach Onederland.

10. Share a quote that inspires you.

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions! Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments! Happy Monday, dear ones!!!!!!!!!

I'm Back + Weigh In & FMM: Blogger to Blogger

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 16:28:00 +0000

It's been a while since I've added a post. I have to admit I felt pretty defeated after the post I wrote following my gym visit. I've been once since, and spent time pedaling on the bike (slower than usual) while listening to an audiobook and then walked on the treadmill a bit. I guess part of me didn't want to post while I was still so down. I don't like being such a downer, at least to other people. The hubby is usually the only one who sees much of that side (but that's because he's stuck with me for better or worse, hehe).

Weigh in wise hasn't been TOO bad. My weight has been tottering back and forth lately, but as I've enjoyed more sweets than usual (thanks to Valentine's Day) without stepping up my workouts, it doesn't surprise me. I weighed in on the 10th at 207.2, which was 0.6 more than the week before. However, I weighed in this last Sunday at 204.4. At least overall the scale is still moving in the right direction, though it is taking a long time to get there. I told my sister last week I think I might be sabotaging myself. I'm so close to Onederland, if I really wanted to I'm sure I could bust my ass and get there. But for some reason there's a block.

Part of me is so TIRED of dieting. I'm tired of caring so much. I'm tired of seeing everyone else eat however much chocolate or burgers as they want. However on the other hand, I am enjoying all the little changes I see in myself. I'm noticing how much more flexibility I have, and my double chin seems to be disappearing. I'm slowly feeling my confidence grow and have even noticed an increase the number of men noticing me. (Though I have to admit as much as I wanted that attention even after getting married I find myself wishing they'd stop as it often creeps me out)

Blogger to Blogger

1. Does your blog have one overwhelming theme?
My journey in losing weight, though I'm starting to see why so many are venturing out into new branches after a year or so.

2. How did you come up with the theme(s) for your blog? Was it intentional?
I wanted to record my weight loss as a way to keep me on track.

3. Share something cool that has happened in your life as a result of blogging.
I've met a few people I find myself feeling connected to stronger than even those I know in person.

4. How much time to do spend reading blogs everyday?
Probably an hour, usually in the mornings when I'm trying to wake up.

5. Do you blog on the weekends?
Not usually

6. Do you keep track of your stats? Do they matter to you?
Yes, though I haven't done my measurements in a few months. They matter to me a little too much.

7. How do you decide how much to share about your personal life?
I'm a fairly open person, I always have been. In fact I'm sure I sometimes share too much (though trust me, the people who know me in real life hear a lot more.

8. Do you aspire to be a writer, or did blogging happen for some other reason?
I always wanted to be a writer as a child. I enjoy writing but I'm not so sure I have much of a talent in it.

9. As a blogger, do you think it’s more important to write for yourself, or for your readers?
My writing is usually aimed more towards myself. I hope to at one point add more things that readers will crave, but as I don't have many it doesn't seem like there's much of an urgency.

10. What kind of plans do you have for the future of your blog?
I'm not sure at this point. That's something I'm trying to figure out.

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions. Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments. Happy Monday!

Failure

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 02:15:00 +0000

I feel like SUCH a failure...

I decided to go back to the gym after taking a few months off. While I told myself I'd still be just as dedicated at home through Wii games and workout dvds, I found my workouts less and less frequent. So today was the day. My husband's kept out old gym schedule so I figured I'd just go with him. No big deal, right? Wrong. I didn't even last 15 minutes on the treadmill.

I'm not talking about a "I was running so hard I had to stop before I passed out". I was walking, and it wasn't even a faster speed than I'm use to. I started getting short of breath from the beginning and I didn't know if it was my cold or if I'm just that out of shape now. Then more and more people came over to the treadmills around me, making more super aware of my breathing. At the fifteen minute mark I just freaked. I turned the machine off and went downstairs.

I figured I'd just be able to take a breather in the locker room for a few minutes and go back to working out. After all, I KNEW this was purely mental. I'm 6 pounds away from Onederland... I should be able to speed walk on a treadmill for goodness sake! But I didn't. I couldn't seem to pull myself together. I kept having flashbacks of high school.

As I walked out of the gym I noticed all the women there who were bigger than me. They were doing it. Heck, I've done it before. Why was I letting myself get psyched out? But instead of rising above it, turning around to finish my workout, I left. I sat in the car feeling like a complete failure while I waited for my husband. It's like I'm starting all the way back at square one.

Weigh In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: Five Things

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:07:00 +0000

My weekend consisted of tissues, medicine and LOTS of tea. The hubby and I caught a cold and spent most of our weekend at home trying to convince the other one we were sicker than the other and should be taken care of. :) Somehow my husband's logic was since I've been sick longer (I just got over a stomach bug) it was his turn to be taken care of. Hmmm, I don't like this logic.

However one good thing about being sick, you drink so much fluid and eat so little you're bound to lose weight. I weighed in at 206.6 giving me a weight loss of 2.6 this week! Yay. I'm not sure how much of that will stick, but it was still nice to see. Unfortunately even if it was all a true weight loss, there's a good chance I gained a little with yesterday's Super Bowl Sunday. I had 4 pieces of large garden fresh pizza. Granted I spaced it out over the entire game but still, that's a LOT of calories. Oh it was so good though. I didn't even need additional snacks.

Five Things

1. Share five things you hope to do before you die.
- Become a mom
- Get a tattoo
- Road trip across the states
- Skydive (probably when I'm old)
- Go to Ireland

2. List five things you love about yourself.
- My hair
- My heart (I really am a softie)
- My crazy personality
- My height (I love being a shortie)
- My boobs (what can I say, being plus size does have perks)

3. Share the five coolest things that you’ve done in 2013.
- Went to Six Flags (and fit in ALL the seats)
- Went to SpeedZone with the hubby
- Kept my niece for a weekend (as much as I still want kids this definitely gave me some patience to wait until it happens and made me enjoy our time alone until it does)
- Signed up for my first 5k obstacle course (with Amanda over at Life of the Browns)
- Bought a new pair of boots (with heels... not spike but still not my normal wedge)

4. List five things that you always have in your kitchen.
- Food scale
- Tea + Coffee
- Veggies
- Fruit
- A mess to clean up (hehe)

5. Share five places you would like to go on vacation.
- Alaska
- Ireland
- Paris
- England
- Egypt

6. List five celebrities/public figures you’d like to meet.
- Gerald Butler (yum)
- Reba McEntire
- Julia Roberts
- Jason Statham (b/c he kicks ass)
- Richard Gere (he was my first celebrity crush when I was little)

7. List five bands or artists you’d like to see perform live.
Hmm, I've never been big on "concerts" how about musicals?
- Lion King
- The King & I
- Mamma Mia
- Beauty & the Beast (I've seen a local production but I'd like to see a more professional one)
- Chicago

8. List five TV shows that you don’t want to miss.
Well I don't really watch TV when it's airing, but there are a few I'm usually itching for them to come to disk.
- Downton Abby (I don't even wait for disk, I let myself get a month or so behind and watch it in chunks on PBS.com)
- Leverage
- Castle
- Big Bang Theory
- Glee

9. Share five things you wanted to do as a child.
- Become a singer
- Write a book
- Get married (check)
- Become a mom (working on it)
- Become a teacher (working on it)

10. Share five things you hope to do in 2013.
- Go to Oregon/Washington with my father-in-law
- Get to my goal weight
- Get my tattoo
- Become a mom
- Learn to cook

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions! Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments! Happy Monday, friends!!!!!!!

Oster MyBlend Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 02:39:00 +0000

So my blogging buddy Amanda over at Living with the Browns is doing her very first giveaway! She's new to the blogging world like I am so I'm hoping this will be a great way for her to increase her viewers (i.e. support system). You guys should head over to her blog and check it out (giveaway ends Monday February 4th). It's for a pink Oster MyBlend:

I was curious about the blender since it seems ideal for on the go protein shakes and such, so I went over to Amazon to check it out. Turns out, it's got some pretty awesome reviews. The blade setup looks pretty similar to the Magic Bullet and in fact many viewers commented that it was a cheaper alternative. While I enjoy my bullet honestly it's $60 price tag isn't for everyone (mine was a gift) and ALL the unnecessary accessories can be a bit of a pain storage-wise. The Oster MyBlend just has 1 sports bottle (though if you REALLY wanted another one you could purchase it). In my opinion unless you're just too lazy to clean it you shouldn't need more than one (unless you're making a shake for 2, in which case this probably isn't the product for you).

So go check out Amanda's (self sponsored) giveaway and check out her other posts while you're there. Don't forget to show some love in her comments, finding support in this blogging community is the best part.

Weigh-In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: Getting To Know Each Other

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 15:46:00 +0000

With everything going on last week I forgot to post my weigh in. I weighed in at 210.4, so up 1.8 pounds. It wasn't really a surprise after the binging I did. I'm just glad it was limited to just 2 days so it didn't completely undo everything I've worked for. I thought I'd come far enough to where I wouldn't turn to food to drown my problems but I guess some things will be a life long struggle for me.

So yesterday I got on the scale and weighed in at 209.2, down 1.2 pounds. Glad I lost almost all I gained the week before but I'm starting to wonder if I'll be able to win the DietBet at this point. While that's only .1 away from my needed weigh in to win, that's without clothes. It was also BEFORE Sunday's meals. The bad part about mine or Kyle's birthday is the multiple celebrations between our 2 families. Yesterday was his birthday with my family, which meant chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes and a very rich Edward's Reese's Pie.

Of course to make matters worse we were EXHAUSTED from a weekend babysitting our cute niece Brooklyn and didn't feel like cooking. So instead we went back to my parents for leftovers... and another piece of pie. YIKES. It's hard to say what damage was done since my food hasn't finished digesting but I have a feeling it won't be back down by Thursday. There goes $20. I really need to get focused on my fitness again. For some reason I just don't seem to have the drive I had in 2012.

Now it’s that time…If you’ve taken part in FMM then you know the rules. If you’re new, please take a moment to answer this week’s question on your own blog then add your link in the comments section here at: www.alltheweigh.com so we can all see your FMM questions and answers. Please invite your blog readers to add their links here too so everyone has to opportunity to be seen. The idea is to connect with other awesome bloggers so take a moment to post your own FMM post and comment on a couple of other posts. Now it’s time for this week’s topic!

Getting To Know Each Other

1. What is your favorite color? Green
2. Share one or more of your talents. I LOVE singing but honestly I have no idea how "talented" I am.
3. If you were spending the day getting to know someone new, where would you want to go? Someplace with a lot of walking, like a zoo or a theme park. I use to think a coffee shop because you have a better opportunity to talk, but it's a little intimidating when someone you don't know is staring at you waiting for you to say something
4. What is your favorite meal? Maybe Vietnamese food? Vermicelli with BBQ Pork (bun thit nuong) with a Boba Tea for dessert,YUM! Man I need to look up how many calories in that dish at Pho 95. It's been FOREVER since I've been there.
5. Do you prefer to text or talk? Text, I hate talking on the phone. In fact even as a kid the only time I enjoyed talking on the phone was when I was talking to a boy I had a crush on.
6. Share something about yourself that might surprise someone that you’re getting to know. I cry at almost EVERY sappy movie I watch (sometimes even the non-sappy ones) I'm a HUGE sucker for Romance.
7. Do you color your hair? Nope, redheads+hair-dye = disaster
8. Do you wear glasses or contacts? I have very low prescription reading glasses but I don't use them.
9. What is your favorite breakfast food? Pancakes, no need to waste calories on the syrup, just the pancake will do
10. Would your friends say that you’re sarcastic? No... not at all :)
11. Do you prefer salty or sweet? Sweet
12. What is the first thing you notice about the opposite sex? Eyes, I'm a sucker for pretty eyes
13. What is the last movie you watched? I watched Batman & Robin with the Hubby last night as he was playing with his birthday toys.
14. Are you religious? Yes
15. Are you a neat freak, a slob, or somewhere in between? Somewhere in between. I use to be a slob but then I married my neat-freak husband and he's rubbing off on me.
16. Share something from your bucket list that you hope to do someday. Road-trip across the States.
17. Are you a risk taker, or do you prefer to play it safe? Somewhere in between I guess. I'd like to think I'm a risk taker, but I lean more towards the safe side of the spectrum.
18. Have you ever worn braces? Nope
19. Would you rather spend an evening at a theater or at a club? Theater
20. If you could have three wishes, what would one of them be? Become a mom

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions. Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments! Happy Monday!

CRUSHED

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 23:03:00 +0000

I am completely CRUSHED.

So my best friend got a confirmation from the doctor today... she's pregnant. It stung a little hearing this. It's her third pregnancy in less than a year and while the others resulted in miscarriages it didn't hurt any less. I want to be happy for them, but inside I couldn't help but envy them. They haven't even been married a year.

So as I'm getting all this information via Facebook message (b/c I left my phone at home) I get another message from a friend of mine about a dr. appointment she has. Come to find out, she's pregnant too. But this isn't just any regular pregnancy... no, this is a miracle pregnancy. You see my friend had a partial hysterectomy a few years back. She recently got engaged and while they've talked about the possibility of adopting, they never even considered the possibility of getting pregnant. There's a high risk of miscarriage involved along with a lot of other medical issues, but the fact is, she's pregnant.

That's the third woman close to me who's pregnant. SERIOUSLY?!?!? Two of them accidentally got pregnant and the other one has only been trying for 6 months. WTF! I found all this out around 2:30... needless to say I haven't gotten much done since then. I want to just fall apart and cry right now. It's taking everything in me to keep it together.

It's not so much that "everyone else" is pregnant and I'm not (although that does hurt). It's that "everyone else" is having a baby and my husband is still trying to accept the concept of adoption. It's not that he has anything against adoption, it's more that he wants to be the only "dad" the child has. He has a fear that the kids will grow up, move out and move on with their life. It's not like we're adopting teenagers. Most of the kids that have vivid memories of their parents don't have good memories of them. I'm trying to be patient b/c while I've been thinking about adoption for a long time, it wasn't until recently that we started talking about it. He kept hoping I'd just get pregnant. I think everyone did.

They wouldn't listen when I tried to voice my fears that I couldn't. They thought I was just worrying for nothing. So I lied. I kept saying I wasn't ready to get pregnant. I wanted to be healthy first. Wanted to finish school first. I guess it wasn't really a lie, all those things were true. But I never stopped trying to get pregnant. I never stopped taking test after test hoping by some miracle it'd come up positive. I put off going to the doctor b/c I was afraid my fears would be confirmed. But then something happened. After a few tests, blood work and an ultrasound they had no idea why my cycles weren't normal. Why I didn't ovulate like I should. So they gave me a pill. Something that was suppose to help the process along. Only I haven't even taken it out of the bag yet.

For some reason there was a strange calmness when I got that pill. We told everyone I'd take them and try to get pregnant and if I didn't, we'd stat the adoption process. Only the first month, I started naturally. And the second month, the same thing. Kyle looked at it as a sign that maybe I could get pregnant again. I on the other hand realized how my desire to have a baby had shifted into a desire to be a mom. I started looking into adoption websites. Asking questions. Requesting information. And that was odd to me. If this is what I've wanted for so long, why is all of my energy focusing on adoption instead of getting pregnant? Why is it my vision of our future has shifted from watching a baby grow to helping kids with school?

But even as I come to peace with a path to adoption, it still hurts when I hear someone else is pregnant. I think more than anything it's that they get to be a mom NOW, while I still have to wait. So I'll give it one more shot. I'll take the ovulation tests. And I'll take the pills. And if I happen to get pregnant, great. But if not maybe everyone will finally be as excited about the idea of adoption as I am.

Weigh In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: Interesting Things

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 16:45:00 +0000

I am SO excited to report this weigh-in! I literally got off and on the scale 3-4 times to make SURE that the numbers were correct. I weighed in this week at 208.6... 3.4 pounds lost! EEKKK! How exciting! Not only did I lose ALL the holiday weight and some, I did it after a week of going out to eat (where I had yummy bread & sweet potatoes instead of the normal steamed veggies) and 3 cookies (met up with an old high school friend who brought them to me). Granted both of these fit into my daily calorie allowance, but still my body normally doesn't have such a positive reaction after sugar. Guess starting my workouts back up really made a difference. Not to mention the protein shakes / monster smoothies I've been adding in the morning.

Just for fun I thought I'd share a picture I sent to my hubby last week. I "edited" it to make up for the HORRIBLE lighting, but I really LOVE this picture. Not because my hair looks amazing with red tone, but because this picture is at eye level with me. I didn't have to take a certain angle to hid my double chin. For once in my adult life, that double chin is almost GONE. Let's compare shall we? This is from last April:

Sadly, this is 20 pounds from my heaviest

Interesting Things

1. What is the last movie you saw in a theater? Wreck It Ralph, such a cute movie. I've been meaning to see The Hobbit for a few weeks now but my father-in-law still isn't up to sitting through a 3 hour movie so we're waiting a while longer.

2. How old were you when you had your first kiss? My first "REAL" kiss, 18. Needless to say I didn't "date" in high school and was still really innocent in middle school when I actually had "bfs".

3. Share the coolest thing that you’ve done so far in 2013. Kyle and I went to Six Flags on the last day the park was opened. It was a blast! I fit in all the seat comfortably for the first time in YEARS, we were speed walking through the park from ride to ride, heck I even RAN through the lines to catch the last ride. Even though it was a minute until closing time the roller coaster operators ran the coaster through one more time for us! (The female asked the males "what do you think, one more time for the two lovers?") We had a blast, it was like we were dating again.
4. What kind of cell phone do you use? Do you love it? It's an HTC Evo Shift, and no I do NOT love it! It's only got 512mb of hard drive. I figured a big memory card would more than make up for this but unfortunately HTC phones have a handful of preloaded apps that not only can't be deleted but that take up hard drive space and can't be moved over to the SD card. What crap! I'm counting down til May when I can get a new one. I'm thinking of the iPhone 4 now that Sprint is offering it free with a new contract.

5. How many times do you plan to workout this week? Hopefully 3-4 now that Winter classes are over. Spring classes won't take near as much of my time during the week since they're spread out more. I still do the Wii Just Dance with my mom and sister on Tuesdays and Thursdays so I hope to squeeze in the Wii Biggest Loser workouts 1-2 times a week. We shall see.
6. What is your favorite movie from the 80′s? The Breakfast Club :)

7. If you could choose one character from a TV show or a movie to fall head over heels for you, who would it be? Mr. Darcy. Either actor would do but I am partial to Colin Firth :)

8. If you could eat one food everyday for the rest of your life without gaining any weight as a result, what would you choose? Peanut Butter Blossoms (Chocolate and Peanut Butter? Yes, Please)

9. What is your favorite flower? Lilies, specifically Stargazer Lilies

10. Did you watch the Golden Globes last night? Nope, never do

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions. Don’t forget to link up in the comments of Kenlie's Blog! Happy Monday!

Maybe Baby?

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 21:41:00 +0000

*SIGH*

The more I think about the chance to adopt a little one and give them a life they wouldn't otherwise have, the more I'm starting to feel like this is the path God wants for me. I mean seriously how many women grow up with a fear they can't have children, especially when that doesn't run in the family? It's been almost 2 years since Kyle and I got married. That's 2 years of unprotected sex (and 2 years since my period/ovulation cycle has been almost non-existent).

And while I am PERFECTLY fine with the thought of adopting (minus the sadness that I would miss out on being pregnant and feeling a life grow inside of me) I can't help but sigh. Every time I share this idea with someone, I get responses ranging from "adoption isn't easy" to "don't give up yet". Yes I get it, having a baby naturally may be "easier". And yes, I might miss out on first steps/first words since we'd most likely go the foster-to-adopt route. But part of me wonders if coming to terms with the fact that THIS may be God's plan for me is really "giving up". Part of me wonders if adoption might be the right path for me EVEN IF we conceive a child naturally.

NOTHING about adoption would be easy, especially if we foster-to-adopt. There will be waiting. We will more than likely end up getting attached to a kid who is then reunited with their parents/other relatives before the adoption process is complete. There will be emotional issues of abandonment to deal with. But who wouldn't want the opportunity to change a child's life? Who wouldn't want to give a child who feels abandoned a sense of security? Is it really so hard for people to understand you can love a child who's not biologically yours JUST AS MUCH as one you give birth to?

For now I guess we'll wait. Wait to see what happens. Wait to see if the pills work. Wait to see if my ovulation cycle can be repaired. That is after all why I started this weight loss journey. But that's it. I'm not doing drug treatments or implanting eggs. If God wanted me to give birth, it'd happen. I was already hesitant about the pills because it felt like I was taking it into my own hands. I won't do that again.

Weigh-In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: Simple Questions

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 16:12:00 +0000

Pictures posted to Facebook can be used without infringing copyright laws, right?

Yesterday I did something I haven't done in over a year, I went to a theme park. I've always been a HUGE fan of roller coasters, but I quit going to theme parks because of my size. On my honeymoon my husband and I went to Six Flags in San Antonio. There was a Superman ride there similar to the Batman ride we have in Arlington, but it's suppose to give you the illusion of flying.

Most of the seats have one strap that holds the restraining part down. However, there are a few that have two straps for larger riders. Kyle and I ended up being separated on the ride because we both needed two straps and they didn't have any next to each other. That embarrassment has stuck with me for a long time. However yesterday the hubby and I went to Six Flags for the last day of Holiday in the Park (my father-in-law bought us season passes because he knew how much we missed going). As we got on each ride I found that I not only fit in all of them, I fit comfortably. It was such an amazing feeling. Never again will I let my weight get to the point to where it holds me back from doing the things I love to do.

Since it's the start of a new year I decided it's time to step up my workouts again. Instead of sleeping in I got up early Saturday and worked out with my Biggest Loser Wii game. OMG! I still hurt. Bob really kicked my butt. After just 30 minutes of working out my legs/thighs/butt was so sore from all the lunges and squats. However as much as it hurt, it felt amazing. It was the first time in a long while where I felt like I REALLY pushed myself and gave it my all during a workout.

My workout definately paid off too. Despite my eating habits over New Year's and my binge episode I weighed in Sunday at 212.0 pounds. 1.4 pounds LOST! YAY! I'm still 2 pounds heavier than where I was pre-holidays, but I'm catching up. I have no doubt I will be in "Onderland" before I turn 25 (February 21st). I can't wait! Now, FMM:

Simple Questions

1. Outside my window I see…my backyard & shed
2. My kitchen counters are… part laminate part wood (thanks to a previous owner who added counter-tops to the kitchen
3. Yesterday I drank…fat free hot chocolate, YUM.
4. My cell phone is…a huge pain in the butt sometimes. I hate that most pre-added apps on the HTC Evos can't be deleted. They take up SO much memory
5. My computer is… my favorite toy
6. My favorite reality show is… The Biggest Loser. It's actually the only one I watch.
7. My workouts are…going to increase this month in both frequency and intensity
8. The last book I read is…What's Your Number (sadly I started it over a year ago. *sigh* I really need to make an effort to read more this year. As much as I LOVE books I don't seem to make time to read them anymore.
9. My week will be….long and exhausting, it's the last week of my Winter Term classes
10. So far 2013 has been… a fresh start

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions. Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments! Happy Monday, friends!

Binge Episode

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 16:11:00 +0000

Binge. I cringe at that word because it's an ugly part of my life I don't like. I give that word too much power but it has been a part of some of the darker times in my life. It's the step sister to my lifetime of unhealthy relationships with food. After a whole year without an episode, the first day of the new year, I binged. What a start to 2013.

So rewind the clock to New Year's Eve. Around 6:30 we met up with my father-in-law for dinner. Being the boring couple we are we decided to spend time with him versus going out an partying. Dinner was great. I'd been eating healthy all day but I decided for my last meal of the year I'd let myself splurge a little. Steak, mashed potatoes, macaroni & cheese, and rolls. Afterwards we stopped at Sonic for dessert. Yum. It was the first blast I'd had in a year.

We went back to his house to watch a movie. We'd originally planned on seeing "The Hobbit" but since we were all off the next day we decided to just spend the night and see it in the morning before going to Six Flags. About 20 minutes into "The Avengers" his dad told us he needed to go to the Emergency Room. He couldn't pee anything but blood. This is especially scary because Bryce has bladder cancer and had just had his routine surgery to remove the fragments of the tumors that always return. As everyone else was celebrating the ball dropping, we were checking dad into the ER.

After 6 long hours of blood EVERYWHERE, Kyle crying and his dad moaning in excruciating pain despite 3 doses of pain killers, they admitted him into the hospital. As soon as the Urologist saw all the blood in the cathedral bag he scheduled an emergency surgery. The pain was caused by several huge blood clots blocking his bladder from emptying. They needed to go in and remove all the blood clots and burn the spot that was bleeding internally to prevent any more blood loss.

Needless to say I didn't care about calories at the time. My meals that day consisted of a burger, fries, a scoop of black eyed peas, sour skittles, sour patch kids, fried chicken, more fries and a biscuit. I'd had a total of 2 hours of sleep so we decided to go to bed early that night. Kyle offered me half a 100 Grand chocolate bar and a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup right before bed. I wanted more. I got out the candy stash from our stockings. I ate another 2 Reese's Cups, 2 Andes Mints a York, half a sugar free nougat, half a sugar free peanut brittle piece, and half a fun size bag of Reese's Pieces. Of course it's very possible that I actually consumed more than that, but those are the items I remember. To make matters worse, all of that was consumed in a 5 minute time period. I didn't even allow myself time to enjoy it. *hand to forehead*

It could have been a lot worse, but considering all the junk I'd already consumed for the day and that this was the first day of the new year, it really hit me hard. This was in fact a binge episode. I was pretty down about it the following day, but what could I do. There was nothing I could do to un-eat all that crap. I had two options, I could give up my diet or I could move on. So I'm moving on.

The next day I joined Roni's New Year's DietBet Game. 4% of body weight in 4 weeks sounds like a lot, but I figured even if I didn't make it, this might be the motivation I needed to get a jump on the new year. Besides, I'm a pretty competitive person. Kyle even decided to join with me to start up his weight loss again. I personally don't think he needs it (since he's maintained his weight loss this whole time and I'm still 10 pounds heavier than he is) but I know it's what he wants so I'm going to be supportive.

There's no looking back now, 2013 here I come.

Weigh-In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 15:02:00 +0000

So this Christmas I had 4 individual Christmas meals, the 23rd with my mother-in-law, the 24th with my father-in-law, the 25th with all of Kyle's extended family and then this weekend with my family. My nephews spent Christmas with their dad this year so we celebrated with my family when they got back. After all those meals AND all those desserts, I knew I was going to gain weight. However, I wanted to enjoy all those foods I wouldn't normally let myself eat (at least all at once). So I took those days off as far as my diet was concerned. I also haven't had a workout since the week before Christmas due to all the gift buying and school work.

I got on the scale this morning and I was bummed, but it was to be expected. I honestly got off the scale to fast to remember the exact number, but I do remember the 213 at the beginning. Three pounds gained. Oh well, tomorrow is a new year and I will get right back on track. I'm considering participating in this DietBet where you're wagering money that you can lose 4% of your body weight in 30 days. I'm not sure I can actually win, however $20 bucks to really kick my weight loss back in gear might be worth it. I am VERY competitive at times.

1. Share one thing that you plan to do for yourself in 2013. Stay more organized so I can hopefully reduce some stress in my life.
2. Share a good habit that you will continue doing into the new year. My new healthy lifestyle
3. Do you make new year’s make resolutions? If so, do you typically stick to them? I use to not like them because I never stuck to them, however that all changed this year. I made the resolution to lose weight and get healthier. I am now smaller than I was when I met my husband. But I do think it takes more than just saying you have a "resolution". You have to be ready to make the changes.
4. Do you have any health goals for the new year? I want to lose about another 60 pounds so I can be at my goal weight by next year.
5. Share one thing that you plan to do in January. Step up my workouts. I've got the food part of my healthy life under control for the most part but I've yet to learn my potential with my workouts. I've never really PUSHED myself.
6. Do you have any travel plans for the coming year? If so, where are you most excited to go? Hopefully we'll be able to take a trip with my father-in-law to see his family that lives in the Oregon/Washington area.
7. What are your plans for New Year’s Eve? Still waiting to hear back from my father-in-law if he's free to go see The Hobbit with us either tonight or tomorrow. If not I'm not sure what we'll do. Maybe Six Flags if it's not TOO cold.
8. What are your resolutions for 2013?

Get more organized
Embrace "Onederland"
Get to my goal weight
Pay more attention to my husband
Cook more

9. What are you looking forward to most over the next 12 months? The birth of my nephew, Aiden. I can't wait to have another little baby in the family. I love my niece but I don't get to see her near as much as I'd get to see Aiden (my brother and sister-in-law live in my neighborhood).
10. Share something unique that you hope to do in 2013. I told my husband last night that starting January I want to actively "try" and get pregnant. We'll use the pills the doctor prescribed to force my cycle/ovulation and give it our best shot. If we aren't pregnant by the end of the year I want to start actively looking into adoption.As much as I'd like to have my own child (so I know the joys of being pregnant and seeing all their "firsts") I honestly would love a child I adopted just as much. There's something about the idea of rescuing a child and providing them with a life they wouldn't otherwise have that really speaks to me. I've had a gut feeling since I was a teenager that I couldn't get pregnant and maybe that was just God preparing me for what he has in store for me.

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions! Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments, and say hi to someone new! Happy New Year!!!!!!!

Weigh In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: Fill in the Blanks

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 15:28:00 +0000

So, yesterday when I got on the scale... it was the exact same as it was last Sunday. I'm glad I didn't gain anything with the holiday parties so far, but it was still a little disappointing to see that I'd gained the pound and a half I'd lost through out the week. Oh well, I'm not going to stress over it. Maintaining during the Christmas season is A LOT better than the 10 pounds I usually put on. It's not over yet, but I think it's safe to say I won't be gaining 10 pounds. If I do gain a pound or two though, I'll just lose it back in the new year. That's the beauty of a long term lifestyle. This isn't a race to get off the weight the fastest (although it's nicer to lose it sooner rather than later). It's a balance to get the weight off and be able to keep it off. I'm in this for the long haul, so I'm going to enjoy the two days left of my holiday season (and the 30th when I have Christmas with my nephews). Merry Christmas Everybody!

1. I want to...be comfortable in my own skin
2. I’ve never… owned a REAL pair of heels (wedges don't count)
3. I believe…in Santa Claus... (wearing a shirt that says "I Believe" right now with his picture)

4. My mind often wonders… what it'd be like to be a mom
5. Last night I dreamed that… zombies took over and we hid out in an abandoned house for 3 years (before foolishly leaving the house thinking it was safe on Christmas morning and getting bit)
6. This morning for breakfast I ate… 2 pumpkin cookies and 2 wheat waffles (no syrup)
7. My love life is… not as exciting as I would like, but that's marriage for you

8. I enjoy… cuddling up on the couch with a good book
9. When I was a child I used to… think I could make Christmas hurry up by starting to listen to Christmas music and color Christmas pictures in October... :)

10. When I’m in the kitchen I… think about how much I want to learn how to cook
11. My favorite exercise is... Just Dance
12. When I travel I…pack more than I should and yet still forget something
13. My friends would tell you that I am…loud, opinionated and quirky
14. If I had to eat at a fast food restaurant today I would choose…Chipotle
15. My favorite…time of year is Christmas!

16. My home is…wherever my husband is
17. I read…Jane Austen and other 19th Century time pieces
18. The last movie I saw was…Holly for Christmas (Hallmark Channel was on while we were baking cookies at my mom's)
19. Music makes me feel…like dancing (I wanna dance the night away)
20. All I want for Christmas is…a baby

Now it’s your turn to answer this week’s questions! Don’t forget to come back and link up in the comments!

Weigh In + Friend Makin’ Mondays: Twelve in 2012 + Skinny Snowman Update

noreply@blogger.com (Quirky Leprechaun) — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 17:35:00 +0000

First my weigh-in: I lost 2.8 pounds! I am now down to 210.0 Woo-hoo (happy dance). I guess my body was making up for not losing anything last week!

Now…If you’ve taken part in FMM then you know the rules. If you’re new, please take a moment to answer this week’s question on your own blog then add your link in the comments section here at: www.alltheweigh.com so we can all see your FMM questions and answers. Please invite your blog readers to add their links here too so everyone has to opportunity to be seen. The idea is to connect with other awesome bloggers so take a moment to post your own FMM post and comment on a couple of other posts. Now it’s time for this week’s topic!

Twelve in 2012

1. What was your greatest personal accomplishment in 2012? I finally got serious with my desire to lose weight and started my path to a healthier lifestyle.
2. What’s the best thing your did for your health? Educating myself. I use to think losing weight meant starving myself and spending hours at the gym. No wonder people give up on their diets... that's impossible to keep up with and it doesn't work long term.
3. Share one thing that caused a significant change in your life this year. My husband supporting me and going to the gym with me (even though he left me in the dust and lost 70 pounds within the first 6 months'). Having that support and motivation at home did wonders!

4. List a few things that you experienced for the first time at some point over the last twelve months.

Went on a Girl's Only Vacation
Went Kayaking
Got a Massage
Rode a Horse (The first 4 were all from the same trip!)
Got down to the weight I was when I graduated high school
Went on a Cruise with 3 other Couples (Parents, Brother & His Fiance, Aunt & Uncle)
Went to Mexico
Ate Alligator, Escargot, Duck, Calamari, Frog Legs (cruise)
Went on my First 5K
Started a blog

5. What was the coolest place you visited? Chankanaab Park in Cozumel, Mexico. It was GORGEOUS

6. If you could change one thing about the last year what would it be? I wouldn't have gotten out of the habit of going to the gym. I know I needed a break from it but I still wish I hadn't.
7. What is the best meal you ate this year? Tuna Steak (and for $20 it better have been)
8. Tell us about a new friend you made. I made a really cool friend on MyFitnessPal that I feel oddly comfortable talking to. I feel no judgement from her and she's very supportive which is always a key in friendships.
9. What did you hope to accomplish this year that you did not? I wanted to get to Onederland (under 200 pounds) before the year ended. I'm so close (10 pounds away) and I know I could just starve myself to make it (although I'd gain it right back after the New Year) but I would rather keep this journey healthy instead of just hitting a certain number. I'm in this for life so hitting it now or before my birthday won't really make THAT big of a difference.
10. Share something you learned in 2012. I CAN do this!
11. Share an odd and unexpected thing that you experienced this year. My little brother got married and is having a baby in March... I was shocked... I believe my exact words when he told me was "HOLY CRAP!".

12. How do you think 2013 will differ from 2012? I think my focus is going to shift towards eating the right things under my calorie goal instead of just eating anything under my calorie goal. I believe that weight loss was just math but I'm finding out while that may be true... you can lose it faster (and lose fat mass instead of fat and muscle) when you eat the RIGHT things.

Now it’s your turn! Don’t forget to go and link up in the comments at: www.alltheweigh.com!

Updates for the Skinny Snowman Challenge from Brooke's blog.

Thursday - Day 18:

5 Positives

My cold isn't followed by a fever
Found some decent cough drops for once
Picked up a nice Salmon Fillet to cook
Decided to take a B and skip the research paper
3 whole days until my Winter Semester starts

TOTAL: 40 points

Friday - Day 19:
5 Positives

My runny nose went away (unfortunately a sore throat followed)
Went home early (boss is a germ-a-phobe)
Soup for lunch!
Watched another Zombie movie (I love Zombie movies, especially the ones with original story lines)
I used so little calories today that I had enough left over for pizza (Papa John's Veggie Lover)

TOTAL: 40 points

Saturday - Day 20:
5 Positives

Got to sleep in :)
We spent the day with Bryce (my father-in-law) and Papa Meek (my grandfather-in-law)
I did REALLY good at the buffet we went to for lunch. Loaded up on salad first, then 1 plate with a healthy meat and green veggies (which allowed me to have a scoop of mashed potatoes, half a scoop of mac & cheese and a roll without feeling guilty)
Edward's Hersey Sundae Pie :)
Papa Meek blessed us with an AMAZING gift

TOTAL: 65 points

WEEK 2 TOTAL: 330/450
I really didn't do very well this week, but I was also sick half the week so I'm cutting myself some slack.

Sunday - Day 21:

5 Positives

I lost 2.8 pounds! (which makes up for not losing last week)
I'm 1 pound away from 60 pounds total lost
I am 10 pounds away from "Onederland"
My daddy made some yummy beans and cornbread (which was awesome for my cold)
The hubby and I got almost ALL the Christmas shopping done

TOTAL: 45 points