Kelly's Journey

#backtobasics

2014-08-04T20:24:00.001-05:00

Well here we are. I loved keeping a blog of my progress with losing weight and looking back at what I was going through and experiencing. I miss friends and family getting the enjoyment of reading and being so proud of what I was accomplishing. Blogging can be super stressful, it's hard not being able to donate the time you want to to it but I will be making a priority out of it now!

A year ago my life completely changed. I won't go into detail but many people in my life know. I was so scared of what was going to happen next. I felt like I digressed back to what I was before I lived in Nashville. I took it very hard. It made me think I was letting so many people down. I seemed so happy but I wasn't. I was sad a lot. I took quite a bit of time to myself.

Of course during this time I fell back into old habits. I was eating so badly and being lazy. I didn't move from the couch. It was pathetic. I woke up one day and I didn't recognize the girl in the mirror. I gained all my weight back that I had lost and I just wanted to stay in my t-shirts and shorts. I didn't feel pretty and was so ashamed.

But besides all the negativity I was facing, I had ALOT of positivity in my life. I had an amazing support group in Nashville. I made some wonderful friends and honestly without them I would probably be back in Memphis. (Nothing wrong with that but I love Nashville so much as my new home!) These girls came into my life when I really needed people. When I first moved to Nashville I didn't know many people and so I had to completely start over to make new friends. These ladies are truly angels and just really have no idea the impact they made on my life!

So here we are again. I am going back to the basics of my diet when I started February 27, 2012. I luckily have my blog to remind me of what helped me. So thats exactly what I am doing. Eating right, working on myself, and exercising.

Being ridic at my bestie's wedding 2 weeks ago.

I joined a gym....Now what?

2013-05-27T21:04:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! I hope you enjoyed a nice long Memorial Day weekend. I know I did. I got to hangout with some of my college buddies and did a whole lot of shopping.

So today instead of lounging around, relaxing by the pool (which I should have done a little, I’m looking a little ghostly these days), enjoying a cook out and drinking I decided today is the day I am joining a gym! I finally found one that is about a mile away from where I live and I did not know if there would be anyone there today to help me join but I thought I would give it a shot.

Luckily they let me join and showed me around. I even got half off my enrollment fee (hey saving a little money anytime I can is alright with me!) So I got a nice cardio workout in. I ran/walked 1.92 miles! Super proud of myself for that (I’m sure I will be feeling that in the morning) and then I did some AB exercises to help eliminate my muffin top….yes I have one.

So I am sure like many of you the gym terrifies me. I see people who are super fit and just get nervous like I can’t work as hard as they can. Plus I got a good amount of weight on them. Its very intimidating. Plus I have NO clue what I am doing. I mean how long should I work out? I have always heard an hour. Well what the heck do I do for an hour? I remind myself that to live an active lifestyle it takes baby steps.

I am committing myself to 3 weeks of exercising 4 times a week for at least 45 min a session. I will do 2 days cardio and 2 days strength training. After much research I have learned this is a way to go. I always thought oh I need to just do cardio until I lose a lot of weight then I can add in weight lifting but that is a myth.

After three weeks I am hoping to up my game and be able to do more. I really want to become a gym rat. I always feel so much better after working out. I was doing pretty good at the beginning of my diet but adding a full time job and moving I just kept saying “ok Monday, I’m joining a gym.” Once you start getting into routine of it, its super easy. But getting off and getting back on seems to be a challenge for me. I’m honestly tired of excuses I make and taking my life in my own hands.

Don't give up on something you believe in

2013-05-14T16:02:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,

I hope you have been doing great on the healthy train. I somehow missed boarding and then tripped a few times to finally get back on it. BUT nevertheless here I am.

My life has been a rollercoaster of emotions. I had family issues to care to, traveling, moving to a new apartment and a whole lot in-between. Oh yes and work. Can’t forget that.

So here I am. Between all the craziness of March and April I am finally glad to be settled into my routine yet again. I will brief you on what has happened in my life the last two months.

March- Started off the month with my bestest friend and former college roommate getting engaged! I could not be happier! I’m also a bridesmaid and boy am I excited! I cantwait to stand by her side on her big day! I got to visit Jackson, MS for my yearly “reunion” It was the big St. Paddy’s Day Parade! I had a blast seeing everyone I love! Went to Memphis a few times to see my family. And that’s March in a nutshell (from what I can remember).

April- What an emotional month this was. Some good and some bad. I will say the most exciting part was my trip to NYC! Yes I finally made the trip I have wanted to make for a good 4 years. It was so nice to be there. It totally made me fall in love with the city all over again and evaluate myself and living in NYC one day. What I learned was that I DO want to be there one day, but in order to make it and survive I have a lot of growing up to do which there is nothing wrong with. I need to grow in many ways, business wise, health wise and mature a little more. I did get to see one of my very best friends living there and enjoyed having a glass of wine with her!

Now we are in May! I just moved to my apartment at the end of April and I have been trying to make it home the past two weeks. It is super weird I have never lived by myself before but I think I like it so far. It was a big adjustment for me. I did not want to and to be honest the weekend I moved I was crying off and on. I couldn’t decide if I was happy or sad. I think a mixture of the whole situation took a toll on me and I did things I was not proud of like turn to food. I promised myself I would never do that again…be an emotional eater and there I was. I felt like such a hypocrite. Who can I help and motivate others when I can’t do the same for myself? I felt like hiding from the world. I was not happy with myself.

Like I have said time and time again. Dieting is probably one of the hardest things you can do. It’s so easy to fall down and harder to get back up. Some eventually give up and wave that white flag. Not me! I refuse to give up on something I have worked on for the past year of my life. I am not where I wanted to be at this point in my diet but that’s ok. It’s better to make those healthy changes then not at all. I don’t want to have another failed attempt at a diet. I want to make it last and I will! I have started an instagram to post my daily meals and coordinate with my blog. It will help me stay on track on a daily basis and help me blog more!

Check out my new Instagram! Just search username Kellysjourney!!

I know some of you are probably sick of this song and dance I go through but I am just being my honest self. I am just like every person out there struggling with a diet. It is certainly not easy and I applaud anyone making a healthy change in their life!

Time to face the music

2013-02-25T21:36:00.002-06:00

Well Biggest Loser, my new favorite show, has completely inspired my new blog post and boy this couldn't come at a better time. I think it is time for me to face some of my fears to move forward with my life and to be happy.

Fears:

Being Alone

Pushing Away My Loved Ones

Failing To Reach My Goals

Gaining All My Weight Back

So let me address my fears. They all kind of tie in together but I will try to address them each.

1. Being Alone

-I feel like I have never been the pretty girl or what not. I have been teased a lot in my past, but I mean who hasn't though? It is awful and it really is something that has stuck with me for as long as I can remember. But now I am ready for it to go away for good. I know it holds me back from trusting others and letting someone in to love me. I have always watched my friends have boyfriends here and there and I have never experienced that. I remember this one time I was told "Well Kelly you have a great personality and a lot of love to give, just an all around catch, but you need to lose weight if you want a boyfriend" Well...let me tell you how much I enjoyed that comment. I mean it was something that was always in the back of my head but for someone to say it to me was so heartbreaking. I guess between the teasing, rejection and etc. I turned to food to fill that void. I also came to the conclusion I will never find love. Maybe thats why I put so much time and effort into my friendships and family.

2. Pushing Away My Loved Ones

-I feel for the ones closest to me because I know I can be a holy terror at times. I find its easier to push people away because it is my way of testing them to see if they actually care for me (I'm aware how crazy that sounds). I know I put my all and give too much sometimes. I feel like I have to make up for not having the most wonderful of personalities by treating my friends and family to material objects. I tend to go above and beyond sometimes. Now do not get me wrong you should do nice things for the ones you love. But also know when enough is enough. I am taking this time in my life to learn to be more selfish (in a good way) as in doing for myself and others in a nice balance. I have to constantly be around my friends and family. I am not a fan of alone time because I am scared it will stay that way forever.

3. Failing To Reach My Goals

-If you know me you know how much I love New York. Ever since I was little I knew that I was going to live there and have this fabulous life of the rich and famous. Well I know one day I will get there. It may not be tomorrow or next year but it will happen! Sometimes when I see someone following the path I thought I would be going down I get sad. But instead of getting sad I should support them and continue to work hard on myself and how I can achieve my goals.

4. Gaining All My Weight Back

- This should not be a huge shock as one of my fears. I know I am not the best dieter in the world. I do not workout every day and sometimes I have cheat moments. I am human, I can't be perfect all the time. But I have to remember the only way to live is being healthy. I am constantly working on myself and seeing what works for me and I would hate to fall back into old patterns of sodas only, fast food on the regular, and the most exercise I'd get be walking to the fridge. The old Kelly is just exactly that. OLD! I am a new and work in progress Kelly. I won't say improved yet but a work in progress. I am discovering this new confidence. There are certain tools I need to stay on track for life and I plan to explore those such as trying out a trainer to help me with my working out because I have the healthy eating down to an art but I need a push in the gym.

So what are some of your fears? I am putting mine out there to get them off my chest. I feel a lot better especially after the hellacious past week I had. I felt alone, sad and many other emotions. But now I am working on myself and the things I need to do to be completely happy. Oh and I am 3 pounds away from losing 70 pounds!!! Eeeekkk!!!!

and then there was Spaghetti Squash....

2013-02-18T21:36:00.001-06:00

Hello my loyal readers! How is everyone doing on this monday? ehhh It's monday...no one likes mondays. But I do! I think because I get so excited for Biggest Loser to come on and it just gets me motivated for the week! If you haven't watched tune in to NBC on Monday nights 7-9pm (central time) !! Plus follow me on twitter because I love to live tweet during it and actually have been tweeted or re-tweeted by the contestants on this season and the specialist. (ALL I really want is for Julian Michaels to take me through a workout. Can you imagine? She's a tough cookie)

Anyways.... I posted this super yummy dish on my instagram because I was inspired by a fellow instagramer (someone who instagrams) Skinny Time who posted a picture of spaghetti squash and spinach. I have been dying to try the spaghetti squash for some time now and after researching how to make it, it didn't seem too difficult. It is a nice refreshing substitute from pasta and I am the biggest pasta lover so take my word on it!

So here is my first creation with spaghetti squash....

Spaghetti Squash w/Spinach and Parmesan Cheese

WW+= 3 Points

Serving: 5

Fat: 6g, Carbs 10g, Fiber 3.1g, Protein 6.4g

-1 Spaghetti Squash

-1 packet of frozen spinach (thawed out)

-1 tbsp of olive oil

-1 tbsp of minced garlic

-1/2 cup of parmesan cheese (shredded)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350

2. Cut squash in half then peel out the seeds (just like getting ready to carve a pumpkin)

3. Place both slices of squash on a baking dish and sprinkle a little salt and pepper

4. Bake in over for about an hour or so until very tender

5. Let it cool off for a minute or two then gently fork out the squash and place in a bowl and set to the side. Should look like this.

6. Then in a skillet put the olive oil and garlic. After a minute add in the spinach and saute that for about 5 minutes (not too long or the spinach will dry out)

7. After the spinach is ready add in the spaghetti squash and put in about 1/3 of the parmesan cheese and mix it all together (be careful when stirring because it could get mushy)

8. Then garnish the dish with your leftover cheese and there you have it! Super easy and yummy!

Hope you guys like this dish! Try it out and post your creations on instagram using the hashtage #kellysjourney I would love to see how you liked it!!!

What motivates you?

2013-02-04T22:04:00.000-06:00

Well we are officially a little over a month into the new year. Is everyone sticking to their declarations or resolutions so far? Thus far, I have lost 8.2 pounds in January! Pretty good if I say so myself. After the holidays I had gained a few pounds so I finally passed the mark I couldn't seem to pass. I know the first month is pretty easy because you are super motivated. I know I was and kept losing weight. The moment my weight loss slowed down, I felt like I would slack a little bit such as not working out as hard as I could. Losing your motivation can be easy but then again your motivation SHOULD push to go a little further.

So what motivates you? What helped you decide to make this change in your life?

Let's see for me my motivation was to gain confidence in myself and to live a happy healthy life. I think for a long time I let the negativity of my past hold me back. I always worried what people thought of me and I just wanted everyone to like me. From grade school to college, heck even now. I like to be well liked and try my best to keep that going. I have also struggled with many issues and I learned that holding them on my shoulders is only making itself worse. I would deal with illnesses or death in my family by turning to food. I knew that life was an up and down battle of good times and bad times and I knew that life would throw me curveballs but I couldn't turn to laziness and food to make myself feel better. I knew if I start losing weight I would be on the road to being confident in myself.

I am now 63 pounds down and I am so happy with where my life is going. I completely got rid of all the negativity that was holding me back and starting a new life. I am growing up into the person I know I was suppose to be!

So I hope you think about the things that may be holding you back and completely get rid of them. Write them down then throw it in the trash! Or the things that are motivating you continue to drive your success.

Anyways I wanted to show you the past two weeks of my instagramed pictures! I have breakfast, lunch & dinner covered! Make sure to follow me on Instagram: Kmccollum124 and if you make a healthy meal or want to share your success use the hashtag #kellysjourney I would love to see what you guys are doing!

Top Left: Grilled Chicken Salad w/Skinnytaste Blue Cheese Dressing

Top Right: Pork Chops w/Shallots & Mushrooms, Spinach, & Risotto

Bottom Left: WW Spicy Curry Chicken, Carrots & Yellow Rice

Bottom Right: Steak, Spinach & Asparagus

Top Left: Whole Wheat Waffles w/Strawberries

Top Right: Chicken soup, Cheez-Its, Turkey Sandwich

Bottom Left: Leftover Teriyaki Chicken, Risotto & Green Beans

Bottom Right: Bella Monica Gluten Free Pizza (8pp) Very YUMMY!!

Anything you would like to see me make for you guys? Let me know! and Check out my instagram!!

What you do today can improve all your tomorrows

2013-01-27T18:27:00.000-06:00

Hello readers! How have you been? I have been super busy lately and I celebrated my 24th birthday on the 24th! I got to celebrate the previous weekend with some wonderful friends and had a blast! So I guess I am a year older and wiser. Well I don't know about that but I have grown a lot from 23 to 24. I moved away from home, got a big girl job, started a diet, and so on.

Glad I got to celebrate our birthdays together! My best friend Kyle and I!

So I have been kind of having "writer's block" and I was like what can I write about? Luckily I have a few posts to work on. Sometimes it is hard to think of things but I have talked to a lot of friends and family about staying on track. Look diets are not easy. It takes a lot of work and dedication. You have to eat right, work out and avoid temptation on a daily basis. But it doesn't have to be so hard if you organize your life around your diet so you can enjoy the things around you.

Sundays are my relaxing day to plan out my week ahead. I make lists on lists on lists of things for the week. From planning meals out, shopping lists, what workouts I will do that week, etc. I love schedules. I don't think I could survive without them.

I know a lot of the time I think to myself, wow there is not enough time in the day to do everything I want/need to. I go to work from 8-5, workout, cook dinner, get ready for the next day and then if time allows I try to watch my shows for the week. I mean my work week goes by so fast now because I feel like I am constantly doing something. Oh yeah I try to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

So how can you eat healthy and workout and enjoy some quality relaxing time? Simple!

-Plan your meals out for the week
So I love cooking and planning out meals. I am obsessed with my weight watchers cookbook my mom got me! I use it all the time! It lets you know serving sizes and how many points. I love it! And since many of the recipes are for on average 6 servings so I usually put my leftovers in plastic containers and have that for lunch and dinner the next day. (There you save some time on the 2nd day because you don't have to cook!)

-Research healthy tips online
You know what I have found, surprisingly, Instagram is a great tool for recipes and such. I type in certain hashtags like weight watchers, diet, biggest loser, healthy, etc. (I am starting to use #kellysjourney for my healthy posts on instagram) I even found some great workouts on YouTube.

-Plan workouts
So my goal is to workout at least 4 times a week. I do cardio one day, strength training the next. I learned a workout from watching Biggest Losers (my new favorite show) where you take a deck of cards and each suite stands of a workout (Diamonds=squats, Hearts=pushups, Spades=jumping jacks and Clubs=burpees) so if you draw a Queen of diamonds, you would do 10 squats. Let me tell you it is super hard, yet effective. You can do it in your home and I suggest starting off with half a deck at first. I jumped on it and did a whole deck and I felt like it took me a week to re-cooperate.

New Year's Declaration

2013-01-12T15:55:00.000-06:00

Well everyone it is 2013. It seems like only yesterday I can remember Y2K and everyone freaking out that the world was going to end or like the Mayan calendar running out in December. Nevertheless here we are today! We are two weeks into a fabulous year.

As always the new year brings a new you. A lot of people like to make a few resolutions to get healthier or better themselves in some way. Now I know personally I have made resolutions a hundred times and it lasted until maybe March. So instead of making New Year's resolutions, I am making New Year's Declarations!

1. I declare to stay focused on eating healthy and always tracking my meals through Weight Watchers.

2. I declare to go to the gym at least 3-4 times a week.

3. I declare to become a better person on the inside as well as the outside.

4. I declare to never give up on my dreams even when they seem unreachable.

5. I declare to help others when asked.

6. I declare to always stay positive and not to sweat the small things.

7. I declare to blog more even if I am not doing well on my diet.

8. I declare to make a difference.

I feel like "declaring" something just makes it more powerful and kinda makes me excited. I know a lot of people are tired of making the same old resolutions and not following through. Hey I've been there! Trust me I know the feeling.

So make a list of things you would like to do whether it is healthy lifestyle, traveling more, seeing your family more or shopping less. Whatever it may be, stand up and make a statement! Declare that this year, 2013, you will stick to it as best as you can.

I feel like I am getting started on the right track. I have been preparing my meals for the week, taking my lunch to work, and cutting out soft drinks.

A lot of people have been asking so I am working on a lunch post. Pictures and descriptions of easy lunches you can make. I am going to try and do a 30 day of lunches. Now remember this is in the works and will take awhile because I sometimes take the same thing for lunch a day or two in a row. Here is a little preview of some of my lunches so far! I am also going to try to do my instagram meals of the week too since I am highly addicted to my new weight watchers cookbook!!

My Lunch and Afternoon Snack included.

I love Turkey Sandwiches and Soup!

Until Next Time,

Kelly

#2012taughtme

2013-01-01T20:53:00.001-06:00

So I knew I wanted my next post to be about 2012 coming to an end (not the world just the year). I saw #2012taughtme trending on twitter so I thought about what this past year has taught me and here it goes...

It has been a year of ups and downs, highs and lows, and everything in between. I am declaring 2012 the year I started growing up. So let's see how it all started shall we?

I was a college graduate, living at home, babysitting once or twice a week and eating my feelings because my life was in shambles. I thought the world was going to play out for me one day and I would live this fabulous life of the rich and famous. Clearly I needed to get over that and I did. I made the decision to start of a diet. As the world's biggest yo-yo dieter I was scared.. I did not want to fail at yet another diet. I wanted to truly do this and I did. (I have lost 60 pounds so far) After starting weight watchers I could see my life going in the direction I dreamed of.

In May, I moved to Nashville with one of my friends. It was hard to move away from my family but I had to start growing up. After a few weeks I landed a job. I was so lucky to fall into this position in a communications department of a huge corporation. I am able to pay my own bills and rent. I never thought I could do this.

I had so many wonderful things going on and it felt almost too good to be true at times..

I still never felt like I was changing. I still saw this extremely overweight girl in the mirror. I had people tell me all the time how great I looked, they loved reading my blog, or how proud they were of my accomplishments. With a hundred wonderful things being said it felt like the few who liked calling me "big girl" or make fun of what I was doing could totally tear me down. I try to be such a strong person but it is hard to be criticized for something you work so hard on.

This year I am going to try and block all of those things out. This is for anyone who has been made fun of or anything. DO NOT let anyone or anything tear you down. Remember that you are working on becoming a better person and they just have making fun of others to get them through the day.

So 2012 has taught me that I am working on becoming the person I was meant to become. A little hard work and determination can go a long way. I know what is important to me and that is family and friends. I cannot wait to see what 2013 has in store for me. Hopefully more weightloss and success. Who knows maybe a boyfriend or something (haha)

Don't You Worry, Don't You Worry Child

2012-12-03T21:51:00.001-06:00

Well I lost two pounds! Yay! Praise the Lord! Finally! I was about to start thinking I was never going to lose weight again. LOL I know that is totally dramatic but after a lot of soul searching and figuring out what I need to do to get back on track.

I think I did a lot better because I made sure to check my portions and not guesstimate on what I think was correct portions. I kind of changed my eating habits such as a low-carb dinner and cereal for breakfast. Just little things you know. But with working super long hours this past week (and this week) I am glad I can still manage eating healthy.

I've also decided to change up my usual workout routine. I heard from many people that if you continue to do the same routine that it won't be effective. I mean I go to the gym and it's like a chicken with its head cut off. I am absolutely clueless. Haha. I get on the treadmill and elliptical one day and then some weight lifting the next day.

So I am going to run, zumba, pilates, and weight training. I loved Zumba class so I look forward to doing that at my apartment on Thursdays. (They offer a fun class in the clubhouse! How fun!)

Other than dieting and such, life is going pretty well for me. Two of my good friends, Amber and Lana came into town for the weekend and it was full of fun and shopping! I really enjoyed the shopping part! Then sunday I saw Willie & Korie Robertson from Duck Dynasty! That was so so cool! I love that show so much because it really does remind me of my family in a way (we aren't really rednecks lol).

My mom called me today to let me know she will be passing through Nashville in two weeks and I am too excited. Anytime I can see my mom and stepdad is a good time to me. I love them so much. I just truly love my family. I am blessed with an amazing one. Everyone is so supportive of me and everything I am doing and it makes me so happy.

I just want to let anyone who is struggling with a diet. DO NOT give up! Once you start losing a lot it becomes harder to lose weight. I will say the middle of a diet is harder than the beginning. So if you can make it through this middle stretch like I am experiencing then you can do anything!

Willie & Korie! They said hello to me!

Haha Lana and I giving a peace to the camera!

Give Thanks!

2012-11-26T21:06:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone!

Yes it has been 20 days since I last posted. I am truly sorry! Preparing for Thanksgiving and so many other things have been going on in my life. Since I vowed to be honest in this blog I will continue to do so....

I was truly down in the dumps for a little over a week. I mean this diet or any diet is a struggle from day one but this was the biggest struggle of mine to date. I just do not understand how can I plateau at 50 pounds? I felt like I was on such a roll and then it stopped. I tried different things to eat and such and no change. I mean what gives? I just would cry stepping on the scale and not see anything. I was ready to quit and give up. I wanted to delete my blog and everything. I did not see how I could be a good example for people if I am not producing an outcome.

I took plenty of time to reflect on what I wanted and what was keeping me from reaching my goals. I realized my attitude/mood have not been the best. I felt stressed and sad a lot. I have been living in Nashville for about 6 months now and not having my core group of friends or a group of friends at all is super hard. My FB friends can vouch that I complain about my friend situation all the time. I mean I do not have anyone I can call up. I think I thought friends would come to me and I'm learning that is not the case at all. I've decided instead of moping around about it I need to take action. I've joined the alumnae chapter of my sorority and I am too excited to start getting involved. I know being surrounded by my sisters will be a wonderful thing. I can always count on my sorority sisters.

I also realized that getting use to being on a diet we get comfortable. I was not counting my portions like I should. I assumed. But as I've learned in life...never assume anything.

I could go on and on about things I have done wrong but that is not why we are here. We are here to be positive.

After thanksgiving, I was reminded of how truly wonderful my life is. I am so thankful for a wonderful family who loves me unconditionally every day. They are my biggest supporters. I discussed with my mom my struggles with my diet and she put a lot into perspective for me. I don't think I could love anyone more than my mommy. Seriously she's my best friend and I'm not ashamed of it. She helped me realize that this is only the beginning of my diet and I will continue to have success. I cannot be perfect all the time, which I try to be sometimes. She brought me back down to earth and saved me from insanity. I was about to delete all of this and then after talking with my mom I just need to get back up.

I feel like I post the same thing over and over again. I apologize. I am trying guys. Really trying.

Catch Up Time!

2012-11-05T19:06:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone! Yes I realize I have not posted in a very long time! I apologize! My life has been really crazy lately. I will fill you in!

So my mom had surgery two weeks ago. Standard procedures really. Her 45 min surgery turned into 4 hours. She spent the night in the hospital and went home the next day. I actually went home that weekend to help her out but unfortunately she took a turn for the worse and started getting sick. My stepdad took her to the ER and I followed. She had infections from her surgery and she needed to have yet another surgery to repair everything. It was an awful few days. I cannot think of a worse feeling like sending my mom off to surgery and seeing her in ICU. Literally there are no words... makes me emotional just to think about it. Now my mommy is back at home and starting to feel better. Its very hard to see the strongest person I know sick and weak. But she is getting back to her princess status! Yes my mom is a princess!

But moving on to another subject. While I was back and forth from Memphis to Nashville and not sleeping much and being busy I did not have time to cook meals or anything. I did not eat too well last week... I am not happy with it. I ate fast food and let me tell you I literally do NOT like it anymore. I use to love eating fast food but now it is gross to me. I talked with my mom about how I wasn't doing well on my diet. She was telling me if this is something I want I can't let myself relapse into the old ways. I completely agree with her and I realized that I do not think I could ever eat like I use to. I mean I'd rather just starve then eat greasy fast food. Haha! I guess last week was kind of like a test. I know that I need to continue to move forward with my diet and work harder.

Speaking of hard...my diet has been a real struggle lately. I work out and eat right but wouldn't lose weight. It can get really frustrating, I felt as if my hardwork was not paying off. It's like I hit 55 pounds and well i'm done. But I won't let this plateau keep me from reaching my goals, which I definitely let it get to me and maybe that is why I wasn't doing well on my diet last week. I talked to a few people and they say sometimes when you start losing weight after awhile you have to start working a little bit harder than you started because your body is use to the same routine. Now I do not know if this is true...I am not a doctor or nutritionist! Haha!

I hope everyone has a healthy and happy week!

A little bit goes along way

2012-10-17T19:49:00.000-05:00

I am down 54 pounds! I am just tickled to death! I cannot believe it! I am so glad that after a couple of setbacks the past few weeks I am here and losing! Sometimes I think how can I workout and eat healthy but not lose? Sometimes this happens but I just make sure to track and eat right! Look at these two pictures...one is before and the other is now....I'm sure you can figure that one out on your own! LOL!

I thought I would throw another post out this week. I've been doing super well so far! I've worked out and stocked the fridge with goodies (all healthy of course!).

I get a periodical emails from weight watchers and contain some wonderful articles. I feel like there is someone sitting at their corporate office and knows what I am feeling because the articles say what I'm feeling. I read one called "Maintaining Your Fitness Momentum"

Let's be real....working out can be a pain. We do not enjoy it at the time but do feel better about ourselves afterwards. I know there are days after work I just want to come home but I have my gym clothes packed in my car and stop at the gym before heading into my apartment.

The first thing that was pointed out was one of the first setbacks a person can come across is lack of confidence. We try to do too much too fast. I can contest to that. I think I should be able to run a marathon but for someone with a very small background of exercise I know that being at an advance level right away is about as likely as me becoming a victoria secret model. Not going to happen.

You have to slow your way into working out. If you want to be a runner then start with the couch to 5k program. I am a huge supporter of this! It really helps! I also suggest the Nike Training Club app! It's awesome for so many different work outs at different levels! The article said that you have to change up your workout routine sometimes to stay on the ball. Changing your workout can be fun and beneficial!

So we can all do this together! Set some goals and get going! Don't start with a hardcore 7-day workout but maybe a couple of days a week just to get the ball rolling! Once you get the ball running anything is possible!!

Hope everyone has a great weekend! Make sure to stay on track I know the weekend is hard!

Mother/Daughter Taco Cabbage Soup

2012-10-15T20:51:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone! I hope you are all enjoying the nice fall weather coming in. I am now that my allergies are calming down and getting adjusted to the weather. The fall is my favorite time of the year. I really get in the mood for soups and let me tell you my mom has a stack full of delicious soup recipes. I mean the best are usually ones she throws together and I always forget sometimes to write down what she makes but there is one in particular I've always liked and it is probably the easiest to make.

My roommate and I were talking about making chili and I couldn't find a recipe online that I just had to make/looked good. So I remembered that my mom emailed me about two years ago her taco cabbage soup recipe and I have had it saved in my inbox. I thought what a perfect timing to bring it out!

I changed it up a bit but it turned out just as yummy as I remember. I could give my mom a run for her money. Hehe. (love you mom!)

So here it is I shall call this Mother/Daughter Taco Cabbage Soup! I feel like this is super appropriate and a great way to honor my mom. Look we share a recipe now!

Mother/Daughter Taco Cabbage Soup
Serving Size: 6
WW+ Points: 5
Calories: 229, Fat: 4.9g, Carbs: 10.5g, Fiber: 3.3g, Protein: 36.5g

Ingredients:
1lb Lean Ground Beef
1 Head of Cabbage-Chopped
1 Onion- Chopped
2 Packets of Low-Sodium Taco Seasoning
3 Cans of Fat Free, Low Sodium Beef Broth
1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
1 Can Rotel Tomatoes
1 Can Dark Kidney Beans

Directions:
1. Cook ground beef and make sure to drain well to get all the grease out!
2. Cut up Cabbage and chop onion
3. Mix everything together in a large pot on the stove and cook on Medium-High for 35-45 minutes

Browning the meat! Takes maybe 5 minutes.

Literally just put everything in a pot! Super easy to make!

Turns out like this and is super yummy!!!!

I recommend putting a little shredded cheese on top to give it a little something extra! But I mean this is easy that anyone can make this! If you are a busy person just prepare it all and let it cook on the stove while you have other things to do!

Let's Get Motivated!

2012-10-08T19:17:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! So after slumming around for a week...or two...I dropped 2.6 pounds! Yay! I was a little surprised but I guess after being sick I rested myself up to a healthy start!

So I said in my last post that there were no more excuses for my poor dieting. I think I was having a hard time transitioning from being at home when I wasn't working and could focus all my time on dieting to living in a new city and working full time. I think I have found a nice balance but every day is a learning experience.

I loaded my fridge with veggies and fruits! I am trying to be better about eating fruit. I love veggies and could eat them all the time but I have a harder time with fruit. I even got my first workout of the week under my belt! Yay! Hopefully I can stay on track and work out at least 4 times this week!

I had a conversation with my roommate over the week about the struggles of dieting and how can we keep ourselves motivated to keep on. Dieting is not easy. It is so much easier to give it all up at the drop of a fry. (ha get it? Not hat but fry) I thought about it during my lunch break today. How can I keep myself motivated and motivate others? I came up with a few ideas.....

Put post its in random places with little motivational sayings. I then thought I am going to post a picture of myself pre-diet and put it on my fridge....I can't think of anything more motivating than that. LOL! I thought about making a check list of things I need to accomplish each day like working out or tracking my food. The possibilities are truly endless!

I decided to go through pinterest (my number source for everything) and find some motivational sayings. I really liked the photo (see above) "I may not be there yet, but I'm closer than I was yesterday" wow that's some powerful stuff and so true. I see this so helpful right now because I may not be running a marathon today but you know what getting out there and trying your best to exercise gets you closer to a marathon than someone sitting on the couch.

This is so true! I really glad I found this one. I really am proud of myself when I stay on track with my diet and lose weight. If anyone has a bad day here and there with your diet or whatever it may be remember you always have tomorrow to change that! I know I keep saying losing weight, losing weight but it is so much more than that. I started this journey because I did not like the person I saw in the mirror or in pictures. I would avoid them at all cost. I was not happy in my own skin and I knew what I needed to do. So every day I start feeling better about myself....is a day I am proud of myself!

This quote goes out to anyone who reads my blog (friends, family or strangers) you ARE all these things! Everyone has the ability to do great things in this world. I know so. If you are ever doubting yourself for one second then print this picture off for future reference and put "From Kelly" on the paper. If I could tell each and every one of you every day that you are amazing I would! When I discuss with friends about different struggles in our lives I am reminded of the great things we are destined for. I mean I read this and thought I am all those things.

Never sell yourself short. Aim high and dream big always!

Until next time,

Kelly

My First 5K!

2012-10-02T18:27:00.004-05:00

Hello readers! Hope you are doing well! I have been a little busy since I seem to be going out of town every weekend.

I have some wonderful news! I ran/walked my first 5k! I was not completely prepared but there was no way I could pass up this 5k! It was called "Teal for a Cure" and raised money for the Ovarian Cancer Awareness Foundation. Everyone knows that anything I can do to fight Ovarian Cancer I will. It is a subject that is near and dear to my heart. Luckily I am able to say my mom survived but I know others are not as lucky. I cannot imagine a day without her.

My friends put together a little team in honor of my mom and named ourselves "The Princess Debs" (my mom thinks she's a princess so that is the meaning behind her name). It was great to have such supportive friends! We had so much fun even if it was 8am on a Saturday morning! My friend Sam even came in second place in his division. So proud!

Doing the 5k was a lot harder than I thought. I know now what to expect. I am definitely going to train harder now and work my way up! I know I can do it! I just have to get my butt to the gym!

The releasing of doves at the end of the race in memory of those who fought ovarian cancer. A very touching moment.

The Princess Debs Team (l-r Me, Sam, Amber and Kyle)

Sam getting his prize for winning 2nd place!

Loved seeing my wonderful mommy at the finish line.

Well I hate the fact I am getting sick right now.I always get sick when the weather changes. It could not come at a worse time. I have hit yet another slump. I cannot do this anymore. I am tired of it. I get so frustrated at myself for many reasons. I know people read my blog and I want to be someone who succeeds for you all. I get discourage when I don't and I apologize to those who have followed my journey for a while now. I know it is not easy to stay on track and how can I tell you all to if I am not doing the same? It makes me feel like a fraud. But so many of y'all are much stronger than me.

Right here, right now. I pledge to blog more, exercise more, eat better. This blog is my way of kicking myself into the right lane when I start falling behind. I hope not to lose any readers! I am trying my hardest.

After I get over this illness (hopefully after the weekend I will be a-okay!) I am devoting my time that is not spent at work to this blog and my healthy life. No more out to eat if I don't have to, exercising instead of sitting watching TV.

Can I Do This?

2012-09-19T21:17:00.000-05:00

Ok so I will recap you on my weight loss first. I did not lose any weight this past week. I am not surprised really. I lost more than usual the past two weeks so I was not shocked to of only maintained. (Hey it's better than gaining right?) I think 52 pounds is amazing! I am sure proud of myself. I will continue to work hard and try to fight this demon of mine called the weekend.

I do not know if it is just me or what, but I feel like I do pretty well during the week and then its out the window during the weekend. I guess the going out to eat and drinking can really take a toll on a diet and I am really truly starting to realize that. It isn't rocket science to know this but I guess I fully understand the consequences of it.

Ok I'm not saying I'm an alcoholic but I enjoy a nice glass of wine or a light beer every now and then. I am almost 24 years old. I'm not breaking any laws. I am a twenty-something year old female, I go out. I know this may come as a shock to some. Haha just kidding. But those few alcohol beverages can really affect your diet. According to Weight Watchers, a light beer is 4 points. May not seem like a lot but it adds up fast not to mention makes you feel bloated and retain a lot of water.

Going out to eat. I really do not know where to begin on this subject matter. If you put chips and dip in front of this big girls face, guess what. I will eat them. I try not to but they keep looking at me saying EAT ME!!! I will say this, look at the nutrition facts of your favorite restaurants. Most chain restaurants have all the info on their websites. When it comes to meals I usually stick with grilled chicken or tilapia with steamed veggies. I just feel like you cannot go wrong with that. (I'm not a diet expert so this is just my opinion) But right here, right now I make a pledge to you loyal readers... I will not eat the chips and dip when put in my face. (I mean it's not like you can just have one or two)

I've noticed a lot of my friends lately have been doubting themselves on various levels whether with their future plans after graduating, getting through school, finding a job or dieting. I talked to a friend the other day because they were having problems with their diet. As you know this will come up every now and then. You get into this comfortable routine and it's like ....yeah...diet.... I know I have many of times. I just have to get back into that CAN DO ATTITUDE. I mean we all have busy schedules. It sometimes is not an option in a day to fit in a work out or a healthy home cooked meal. We live in a world where it is always go go go. But you have to take the time and focus on your health/diet.

I too have weeks of frozen meals...some of those meals are good but they get old real fast. A lot of people have said "Well Kelly I cannot cook." YES YOU CAN! If there is anything I can do, I assure you that you can too. Cooking an easy/fast healthy meal is do-able. I mean, go to your local store, pick up your favorite veggies, a little seasoning of your choice, put a tbsp of olive oil in a skillet and TA-DA! Sauteed Veggies. Super easy! Buy a frozen bag of chicken and take a piece out to defrost then marinate it or season it. Throw it in the skillet. Instant meal.

Skinnytaste.com I think anyone who has read my blog knows I live by this site. Her meals are 85% of the time fairly easy to make. Just look around and see what you like!

Weightwatchers.com There are a billion recipes on their website and it can be overwhelming but if you take a look and search things you like it can be easy.

Google.com That's a given. Search easy, healthy recipes.

Pinterest.com I mean duh! Pinterest has everything you need in life.

Queenofpoints.com I just discovered this website. She has WW recipes. It's not too bad! Worth a look!

I have said this before but really the way to be able to juggle a diet and work or school is to plan plan plan! On sundays sit down and map out what you will eat that week (breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks) then go to the store and buy those things. It will make your life a little easier. Now I know that life throws us curve balls and things come up but remember you CAN do this.

I get by with a little help from my friends

2012-09-09T18:56:00.001-05:00

Well I have not posted in a while. I apologize. I was out of town the past two weekends and have had a lot of work but here I am for all my loyal readers out there!

Let's start by saying I am at 51 pound loss! Oh Em Gee! I am just tickled! So happy! I hit my first marker! It's a great feeling! I couldn't be happier right now. I just still catch myself thinking wow I'm actually doing this! I could not think of stopping now!

I for sure have a lot of people who have been wonderful influences on my weight loss. I've met people, who are dear friends, who have been in the same boat as me and lost weight and have been able to maintain it! My friend Landon has been wonderful because over a year ago on a beach trip we stayed up all night and he was telling me about his weight loss journey and inspired me to want to follow in his footsteps. I do not tell him enough/thank him for that conversation. It for sure left a lasting impression. Even now he totally understands how hard it can be and there is no such thing as a perfect dieter. Anything I was struggling with he just would reassure me that you have to keep pushing! We all will cheat at some point. I was so happy to get to catch up with him and my fellow Clinton friends in Starkville! I never fail to have a good time with that bunch!

Me, Landon & Wyatt....hey guys....ME TOO!!! :)

So Labor Day weekend I got to go back to my alma mater, Mississippi State, and enjoy a wonderful weekend of friends and football! I cannot tell you how much I needed to be around my friends! A lot of them I had not seen in months! I got to stay with the lovely Lana. She's an amazing person and I feel like we've been friends forever when in reality we met my senior year of college. Lol! She was wonderful and kept me on track during the weekend! Our celery and hummus instead of the cheese fries....still giving myself a pat on the back for that one! Haha! I loved getting to see my old college roomie for the first time in forever! I literally loved every minute of my visit! I got to see my lovely sorority sisters. Oh my gawd I just can't even go there! Nothing makes me happier than that group of girls!

Me, Brittany, and Lana

I cannot describe how happy I get whenever I go back to my wonderful college. The people alone are just so wonderful. I truly could not see myself going anywhere else and proud to have gotten my degree from there.

Anywhere I went (last weekend and this weekend) I had people stopping me telling me how great I looked and they keep up with my blog! It makes me super happy when people say they really enjoy my blog and I am an inspiration to motivate them to a healthier lifestyle. That's so sweet but I never thought of myself in that way. I definitely blushed anytime I got a compliment. It was a great confidence boost and really keeping me on track! Thank you everyone!

This past weekend I went home because I needed to pick up my brother from the airport. He was returning to Memphis to pack up all his stuff because he is moving to Philadelphia, PA. I am happy for him and thats all I am going to say about that.

I was super stoked to see the two people who have stuck with me since high school, Sam and Kyle. Let me tell you about these two boys. They literally are the owners of my heart. I cannot imagine a world without them. We always have a good time together and truly care about each other. Not to mention they are both ridiculously intelligent and wonderful in their career paths. Sam is a very talented actor and one day you will see his name on a marquee on Broadway. Kyle is going excel in law school and change the world. You two honestly complete me.

Me, Kyle, and Sam

God has blessed me with an amazing group of friends. I can't tell you one that isn't going to do great things. My friends range from creative photographers, writers, hairstylist, models, future nurses, doctors, lawyers, & chefs, working with NASA, making a difference in other countries, working in the sports world...I could honestly go on for days but I won't today :)

I genuinely cherish my friendships more than anything. They are my bonus family. I would drop everything and help them if I could or had to. They are constantly supporting me in my journey. Not one day goes by that one of them tells me how proud they are.

I am hoping to get another post in this week! Stay tuned!

Until next time,

Kelly

The Year of Me

2012-08-30T19:57:00.000-05:00

Well I apologize for my Debbie Downer post last week. I want to clarify on a few things before I start my ramble...

DO NOT give up on your dreams! They will come true! I guess my wording was not the best... what I meant by "unrealistic expectations" was that I thought my moving to New York in a fabulous life was going to happen at the snap of my fingers....it does not happen that way.A lot of factors go into living there such as a high enough income to be able to live. Maybe for some lucky people out there they can up and move but everyone I know who has moved to New York or any other big city has worked their butts off to get where they are.

That is what I am doing right now. Working super hard to reach my goals. I hope you are to! Whether it be getting A's in school, losing weight, or mastering a talent...whatever it is work hard and keep going.

So anyways I hope that covers the basis of what I said last week. Now onto the fun portion of this post!

I lost 2.2 pounds this week! Yay! I am now at a total of 46.9 pounds! That is so exciting! I cannot wait to hit the big 5-0! I am really hoping that is this week! I started working out again. It was not easy but using my built in frustration made it better. I felt like my head was clear and anything that was bothering me was gone. I guess it is like therapy for me. Geez at this rate I will be a size 0 with a 6-pack (only kidding). Haha!

I had to sit back and really be proud of myself 46 pounds is huge! I mean I never thought I could do it. Ever. For someone who literally has tried every diet fad known to mankind I am glad to know that there is still hope for me out there. I am sure many of you have been in the exact same place as me. It's awful...you finally think this is it, I am going to lose weight...then you just have to have fast food and it's over. I am here to tell you it's NEVER over.

You must believe in yourself and truly want to do it for you. Not because someone told you to. I mean I was not really in the mindset to start a diet. I had been unhappy with my weight for quite some time. I knew I wanted to lose weight but one morning I was about to head home from babysitting and thought hmmm I will just stop by Weight Watchers and listen and see if this is a good fit for me.

Well it certainly was. That same day I joined a gym and here I am today. I will say my blog has been a huge blessing in this journey. I started it because I wanted to document the ups and downs so I could look back. Then I thought why not share it with others? I mean someone out there may enjoy my weekly rambles. I did not expect the huge outpour of support and love from family, friends, and strangers. It has made my weight loss so much easier. I know I have had some set backs a couple of weeks but I am still going. 50 pounds is only the start. I do not necessarily want to put an exact "weight goal" because I am a tall, big boned girl but until I can fit in the sizes I want and feel good when I look in the mirror I will reach my goal. I mean hell I am already down 4 pant sizes and no longer wear the plus sizes at certain stores. It is a wonderful feeling!

I started my diet February 27, 2012. I cannot wait to see where I am come February 27, 2013. I can only imagine great things. I am so ready to be comfortable in my own skin. I can feel it coming to surface little by little.

2012 has certain been a "Year of Me" I have changed my lifestyle and supported myself. I am able to financially do things on my own for the first time in my entire life. It's amazing! I can treat myself to nice things when I want to and give back to the people who have sacrificed and worked hard to give me everything I wanted.

I may not be the most religious person in the world (I do consider myself spiritual) but I know that God has a plan for everyone. Sometimes we do not see it or believe it but he does. I know that right now in my life...this is part of my life plan. I believe great things are starting and have started for me already. I know someone may be rolling their eyes or think I am full of it but trust me I was so lost this time last year. I had no goals, plans, or cared what happened. I was lazy and felt like things should come to me.

Once you get up on your feet and start living for yourself, things will come your way. Just remember that everyone is meant for greatness.

Until next time,

Kelly

With failure comes success

2012-08-23T20:28:00.000-05:00

So I am happy to report that my monday weigh in I lost 3.5 pounds! PTL! I was super excited. To be honest I did not work out much...one time. Gosh I need to step up my game.. it use to be so easy to workout every day. But you know being on a diet and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a full time job. I just need to find a balance between that and my other full time job which is work.

I was going to update earlier this week but I have been in the ultimate funk. I do not know why but I just keep getting really sad. I know my FB friends and twitter followers are tired of my teenage girl like angst.

I saw something today that I really really needed to see/read.

I know you are thinking why did this help you? I guess because sometimes I still do not think my life is where I am suppose to be. I honestly try so so hard to keep a huge smile on my face and say everything is fine because that is what is expected of me.....I think.

Well let me tell you where I thought my life would be..... I would be in New York City living this wonderful Sex&The City Life. I would have this amazing PR job and paint the town, in the city that never sleeps, with my closest girlfriends.....

NEWSFLASH: Unrealistic Expectations get you no where.

Let me just clarify something... I am in an awesome city. I have a very well paying job and work hard every day because I know that I'm building experience for my future. Just sometimes it is super hard to be in a new city without my amazing friends and family. Yes I realize I am 23 and should be able to handle the world on my own. But we all need comfort and support at times. I just feel like I've failed myself and I do not know who I am anymore.

I am trying the accept that I have my whole life ahead of me and I will reach my dreams one day. It could be a month from now or 10 years from now.... it will happen. I just can never give up.

I even started feeling like I was failing at my diet because I hit another plateau. Then I realized there are few things I have control over and this is something I hold the key to. So now my life revolves around bettering myself. I am going to work super hard at my diet and work. I may stay home on the weekends and no fun plans but at least I will be healthy :)

Yes, I'm lonely but at least long days at the office and eating right/working out will fill in for right now.

I have something to bring my spirits up... I get to visit my college friends labor day weekend! I am just thrilled! I know it will be just what the doctor ordered! Football, friends, and reliving my glory days in college.

Sorry for the Debbie Downer post. I just really needed to do some venting. I am usually a very positive person so forgive me for this post. :)

Spinach Turkey Meatballs

2012-08-19T18:56:00.000-05:00

So I have grown up with my Italian mom always cooking the best italian food in the world (well in my opinion). Now they are not necessarily healthy by any means I mean the heavy cream, frying, and all kinds of yummy goodness can make you gain a few pounds... haha! But I remember making meatballs all the time with my mom whether for parties, holiday family dinners, or big events. I remember one time we cooked meatballs for 5 hours and made god only knows how many pounds! Anytime I cook with my mom is a blessing and super fun. We try to make it as fun as possible. Thanksgiving is always a real treat! So I decided to make my mom's famous meatballs into a healthier version!

I love using ground turkey instead of ground beef. It is so full of flavor and just absolutely delicious! You should definitely try it!

Spinach Turkey Meatballs

Serving Size: 6

WW +Points: 5 per serving (4 meatballs)

Nutrion Facts:

Calories: 182.4, Total Fat: 7.8g, Carbs: 10.1g, Fiber: 2.1g, Protein: 19.1g

Ingredients:

1lb Ground Turkey 93% lean

1/2 Cup Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs (Italian if you can find it)

1 Egg

3 Tbsp of Parmesan Cheese Shredded

1 Package of Frozen Spinach

1 Tbsp of Minced Garlic

1 Tsp of Italian Seasoning

Salt & Pepper

Directions:

-Preheat Oven to 405 degrees

-Combine all ingredients into a mixing bowl

Roll into 24 balls and place on a cooking sheet

-Cook them for 20 Minutes in the oven and I suggest flipping them halfway through to have them brown evenly on both sides.

I served my meatballs with some Barilla Whole Wheat Pasta and Heart Smart Prego Sauce. It was so delicious!

Happy Cooking and Let me know how you liked the meatballs!!

Admitting my mistakes and my favorite diet foods!

2012-08-15T19:24:00.000-05:00

Well I have been thinking about what to write about and didn't know what people would like to hear. Sometimes I feel like I repeat myself a lot. So.... I decided to admit my mistakes and put a list together of a few of my favorite things on my diet. I have always been a HUGE snacker....especially late at night. If there was a contest for biggest midnight snack eater...I would take the grand prize. It is probably why I gained so much weight over the years. Being a night owl isn't a good thing. I would stay awake all night, watch something on Netflix, and eat. Luckily I have broken that habit because I have to be up early every morning for work.

I think the worst was when I would go out and get fast food late at night. I mean did I really need a chicken nugget extra value meal at midnight? NO! The funny thing about it was the fact I knew what I was doing and that it was wrong but I never thought of stopping. I also felt like I was the greatest sneaky eater. Sometimes I would sit in my car and eat fast food because I didn't want my family or family to know that I was eating so much food. That was definitely not a good way to live. I couldn't do it anymore. I just couldn't let the junk food consume my life. Plus I was not a happy person. I had the worst mood swings, I think it was from all the bad foods I was eating.

So to all you late night eaters, junk food junkies, and so on... that food may feel good to eat in the moment but it won't be there to pay your health bills when you need to go on diabetes medicine. When I started my diet I first and foremost did it for myself. No one told me I had to (well the doctor has before but thats not my point). I hit that breakthrough. I was not happy, my life was a mess and I needed to get control of something. My outlook happened to be dieting and blogging about it.

After getting control over my unhealthy habits it seemed that my life started falling in order. I moved to an awesome city and got a wonderful job. I am no longer living at home, sitting on my booty, and being miserable.

Don't let me fool you. I love being at home with my family but being 23 I couldn't live at home anymore. (NOTE: nothing wrong with people living at home. this is just me) I needed to grow into the person I wanted to be.

So since dieting I have come to find wonderful alternatives

Instead of cake, ice cream, cupcakes, etc....
-Try the Yoplait Light Dessert Yogurts (my favorite is the Red Velvet and Raspberry
Cheesecake..only 2 WW Points)
-Smart One Ice Cream Sandwiches (2 WW Points)

Instead of chips and dip...
-Ritz Crackers (4 WW Points)
-Multi Grain Cheez-Its (3 WW Points)
-Baby Carrots and Pomegranate Vinaigrette (3 WW Points)
-Baked Chips...I love Pringles Reduced Fat (4 WW Points)
-Veggie Sticks Chips (3 WW Points)
-WW String Cheese (1 WW Point)

Instead of Delivery Pizza....
-Lean Cuisine Pepperoni Pizza (7 WW Points)
-Smart One Pizza Minis (7 WW Points)

Instead of Fast Food Burger
-Morning Star Veggie Burger, WW Cheese, Healthy Life Wheat Bread (6 WW Points)
-Smart One Mini Cheeseburgers (5 WW Points)

These are just a few of the things I have enjoyed and made my dieting a little bit easier. While veggies and fruits are always your best call...sometimes you need other things and instead of crashing your diet you can do these things!

Also if you need a website for healthy recipes look no further than Skinnytaste.com I feel like I make meals from this website a couple of times a week. Looking on the WW website can be a little overwhelming because there are just thousands and thousands of recipes. Skinny Taste is super easy to get around and find your dinner.

After religiously reading Skinny Taste I have learned how to take the not so good parts of meals and put healthier parts and make it sometimes even taste better!

I hope you all have a wonderful week and then weekend! I have lost 42 pounds, gone down 2 pant sizes and a shirt sizes! What an amazing feeling! I even got emotional in a dressing room because the clothes were too big. I did not think I would feel that way....ever. I am ready to keep going strong!

Just Another Manic Monday

2012-08-06T22:24:00.000-05:00

Wow what a monday it has been. Geez I feel like everything wrong could happen did...let's see how it started....

I was running a little behind this morning...you may not know but Nashville traffic is awful and I need every minute I could to get to work. So hoping I would get to work on time...what happens you ask? I got pulled over. I mean what did I not get a ticket for....speeding, brake light out, oh and my personal favorite not having a TN license...yes that's true! I mean I would love to know where I am suppose to find time working 8-5 mon-fri to go to a DMV. I guess I should play god somehow. The man was rude but whatever. It happened and now that's money down the drain.

Work is very busy right now and overwhelming. I cannot wait for things to slow down. I am enjoying it but I am just trying to get use to everything in my new role.

So my roommate and I are getting back into the swing of things as far as our diet goes. We made our calendar for the week with our breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. It is seriously the greatest thing ever and makes it so easy to stay on point. So we mark off when we eat on the list for the day. It was a great first day!

Well I had such a wonderful weekend at home...I got to spend some quality time with my family and friends.

I wasn't able to see my mommy on her birthday so I took a long weekend home to spend a lot of time with her. My favorite part was coming home wednesday night and mom had gotten us matching PJs! Ha yes you heard me correctly. I immediately put them on after freshening up before dinner. No matter how old I get I guess I am just always my mommy's little girl :)

Thursday was very relaxing and I went to dinner with my mom, stepdad, and two famiy friends! I had a wonderful time and delicious dinner at Ruth Chris's! So Yummy! Then after a yummy dinner, my long time bestie Sam came over and we just talked about anything we could think of over some red wine. I love seeing him!

Mommy and I before dinner. She is my rock.

My biggest supporters in my life. My mom and stepdad.

I was really looking forward to Friday! I was finally seeing my long lost memphis friends from high school and college!! Started the day off with massages with my mom! Gawd I need that real bad...I was so relaxed. Then I went to dinner with a group of my high school friends. It was wonderful to catch up with them and hangout with them. I missed them a lot and they are so amazing! After dinner and hanging out for a little while, I was honored to hangout with Miss Meredith and Mr Kevin! I always always always have a good time with those two and I never leave disappointed! We hit up a Memphis famous hot spot, Raidfords. A must go to if you ever visit Memphis or live there!

My High School Buddies and I! (L-R: Me, Lindsay, Laurel, Emily & Louisa)

Meredith and Kevin! Love them!

Saturday was fun as mom and I had a spa day to get our hair done then hit up my favorite store, Sephora. I love make up so so much! I was going to go out but between my phone being dead all day and I got home to so many missed messages that I wanted one last night in with my family. I was super sad to leave Sunday. I had such a wonderful weekend it was hard to say bye to them. I tried not to cry but when I got in my car and Sugarland came on my Ipod I just lost it. In case you didn't know my mom's and I songs are "already gone" and "babygirl"

So hopefully I can put this awful monday behind me and move forward to losing weight and feeling great. I won't let those tickets hold me back!

I'm back and better than ever!

2012-07-30T20:30:00.000-05:00

Hello followers of my blog,

I apologize for being MIA the past couple of weeks. I was sick for two weeks (thanks allergies) and between going to work full time and trying to get better I was wore out. I went to bed at about 8:30 at night....

Anyways I am back and ready to update everyone on my life!

So I am at 40 pounds! Wow! That is awesome! I did not really work hard on my diet while I was sick but I've lost three pounds since my last post. It's still a loss and I am very happy with myself! I have to give myself a pat on the back.

What else? Oh I found this recipe for sour cream enchiladas on Pinterest. Now I know we all love Pinterest. It makes us believe we can cook, create, wear anything! I mean my future wedding will be the bomb since I've pretty much planned it on my wedding board....now I need to find a boyfriend who can deal with me! :) So I wanted to make a skinny version of the yummy enchiladas....I substituted with fat free sour cream, fat free cheese, whole wheat/low carb tortillas, and fat free cream of chicken.

It turned out ok but it needs some work. So I will make it again and change a few things. It was just so rich and I was like there is no way this is healthy...but when I put it into my WW recipe builder and it came out to be 7 points for one. But trust me one was enough. I will make it sometime again and see if it turns out better.

Is there anything you see on Pinterest that you want made into a healthier dish? Comment with a link to the pin and I will try to take it on!

So my roommate and I had a big talk on Sunday. We were talking about dieting and how we did not do so well the past couple of weeks due to illness and how it should not have been an excuse. So we were making mental lists of things to do to be successful. I told him how I was most successful when I was organized and planned my meals out. I told him starting next Sunday we would start planning out our meals/snacks/grocery lists for the week ahead. Instead of sitting around wondering what to make.

Then we are going to put up a poster in our kitchen and mark off when we worked out to keep ourselves accountable. Eating healthy is one step but you need some type of physical activity. Whether it is going for a walk in your neighborhood, hitting up a Zumba class, or going to the gym. Any exercise is good exercise.

But in other wonderful news I get to go home this weekend and see my wonderful family/friends! I could not be more excited! I miss my mom so much! She is my rock and always so supportive. We hate being away from each other (even though we are only three hours apart) because we just always have a wonderful time together. She is a strong woman! I wrote about her a while back when I first started my blog! Here is the post!!! Also HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!!!!
Post Dedicated to my Mom!

I am still loving living here in nashville and having a career is so wonderful. However sometimes I do get a little sad...It is really hard not having many friends around me. I adore my roommate and Kara here! They are wonderful people but its so hard living in a city where you hardly know anyone. And I don't really talk to many people at work. I know it is hard to believe but I can be super shy! Yes it is true. Loud Mouth Kelly is shy. When I am not use to something and not comfortable I am very to myself and quiet. I know it will get easier but I wish I had my girlfriends from high school and college here with me!

Looking forward to two more days of work then heading on the road home! So excited!

DONT FORGET TO COMMENT with a recipe from Pinterest you want to see made healthy!!

From Nashville, With Love

2012-07-11T19:32:00.001-05:00

Well I had yet another successful week! I lost 2.8 pounds! I am at 38.1! Woohoo! *pat myself on the back* I am so proud of myself.

I had such a great week last week! Kelly 2.0 was working out hardcore. I was so worn out between doing cardio and strength training I was a beast. Some days I did not want to work out. I wanted to go straight to my room and relax. I am glad I started packing a gym bag in my car so when I get to my apartment complex I go straight to the gym. Its very helpful! I like the gym here at my apartment because it is small, has what I need and usually there is no one in there when I am here. Sometimes there is the occasional cute boy...which only makes me work out harder. (Ladies do not act like you've never done this! haha)

So eating wise...I did very well. Even with the July 4th holiday. I have tried to cook as much as possible but sometimes I leave it to the microwave and Lean Cuisine. I had a bunch of coupons for Lean Cuisines and Smart Ones so I stocked up at the store.

Well onto the even better part of my blog....

I am super excited for this weekend! I have all my wonderful friends coming into town! Amber, Kyle and SAM!!!! Ahhhh!! I haven't seen Sam since December! I am too excited to show him Nashville! I love when Amber and Kyle come to visit because they are always a fun time! Never a dull moment! I can only imagine what this weekend will be like!

I have recently taken in the fact that I live in Nashville. It has not hit me yet...I've lived here for over a month but it hit me today. I love this city so much. I am always discovering new things and fun places to go. Everyone I meet has been so genuine and sweet.....polite as well. Memphians....take note :) I am also so blessed with a wonderful roommate! My roommate Zach. I like to call our friendship "A Convenient Coincidence." Time to explain what that means.....

Zach and I met one weekend I was visiting home from college sophomore year. We had numerous mutual friends. I mean from junior high-college. I am still shocked we did not meet sooner. We may have but just don't remember. Anyways after meeting him we instantly became friends even though we did not really start hanging out until my senior year of college. We realized we had a lot in common and a lot not in common. (i think that makes sense) Then after college I moved back home and Zach just moved back in with his parents. We were both living at home...away from our friends. So we had each other. We hung out every weekend talking about where we thought we would be in life, etc. He wanted to be in Seattle and I wanted to be in New York. We both love our families more than life itself. They are our world. But we were 23 living at home. We needed a change. He called me one fateful day that changed our lives....

In February, he wanted to move out of Memphis and I said how about Nashville? I had just come for NYE and had a wonderful time. After selling him on the different points one being we wouldnt be far away from our families. We picked a date to look at apartments.

Fast forward to today and look at us. We both have awesome jobs, getting healthy, and living the dream! Never a dull moment! Everyday is a new adventure. I could not imagine a better person to share this experience with. He is definitely the ying to my yang. We are so different, yet so alike at the same time. He is a wonderful friend and always supporting me. He even forces me to sit in my room and update my blog! I try to be supportive of him as well. He is an aspiring writer. A good writer at that. Now I may not be the best judge on the literary world but I think Zach has major potential. He let me read two chapters of one of his novels and I demanded the next two chapters because I enjoyed it so much.

Everyone watch out! Zach going to be the next big author! Just wait and see. I said it first here ladies and gents!

So Zach thank you for being a wonderful friend and roommate. Who would of thought we would be here right now! Love you and glad you liked your little present and here's a blog post for you!!!