The Starfish Project

I just want to tuck in my shirts.

2010-06-10T01:12:00.000-07:00

Bahhhh-rrrrrrrrrrrring! Hello, this is Ally speaking to you from the underworld where people swim in cellulite from fried chicken eating marathons and double chins from lack of portion control.

As Megan loses weight, I gain weight. I won't even tell you how much but enough to make me think about what I've been eating the past month. And that would be pizza, grilled cheese, and lots and lots of local food aka fried, sugary, fatty goodness (badness).

I'm nowhere close to reaching my goal of losing at least 30lbs by my 27th birthday, which is in 11 days. So I'm going to push it until August 1st. By August 1st I had better have my jazz together and have lost a good amount of weight and have a healthy diet.

So this is the plan:

Eat smaller portions
Cut out fried chicken - my sweet love!
Step away from the laptop and either walk, run or bike for at least 30 mins
Go to my Tuesday & Thursday night soccer games as soon as the jazz with my car is fixed
Get outside with Aidan during the weekends, whether if it's going for a walk around the neighborhood, hiking (with a companion of course) or swimming around the beach
Along with getting 30 mins of some type of cardio each day I will do push ups, butt workouts and ab workouts - I now only wear dresses since I don't have to worry about pulling up pants that create muffin tops
No more chai lattes!!!
Cut out the dairy, I've been having a weird reaction each time I eat something with cheese, milk, butter; anything dairy - this happened a few years ago when I returned from Norway. My body didn't like dairy products.
Stick to the plan.
Stop worrying how I look to other people and make sure I'm doing this for my health

Those are a few things. I really wish I had someone present with me to keep me on track, even though I know it's my full responsibility to maintain my health but it's always more helpful to have someone by my side kicking my ass.

I may be buying my friend Amber's bike and a trailer so I can bike Aidan to daycare from now on since my brother will be driving to work with the car. Yeah, sharing is not fun but since I work from home I don't really have a need for a car anymore. Not even for groceries since we live a 5 min walk away from the grocery store.

Game face? ON! No more gaining, losing only.

Oh, a great workout/dance song is "Tight Rope" by Janelle Monae. Check her out. Her moves are sexy. She is sexy. You're welcome.

Take More Shots

2010-05-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

While this is usually my go to bar motto, today I am not referring to my predilection for brightly colored, tasty alcoholic beverages that come in cute, midget sized glassware.

Instead, I am once again pulling a metaphor for my life from basketball. I often have revelations about myself after a game and even occasionally in the midst of game. The game itself is actually very serene - there is this natural ebb and flow of movement and energy out on the court, and it allows my mind to disengage from the outside world. While playing, I can't really think about much else. It's just basketball. Stutter step, breathe, pivot, fake, follow through, swoosh, exhale. Last nights game was no exception.

With only 5 players, we have no subs, so we are all running the whole game. My revelation was actually brought on by my teammate, Sarah. I liked Sarah the moment I met her. She has a wonderful energy, is always upbeat, and there is something about her that just reminds me of my best friend Alice, who passed away 6 years ago. She talks like Alice did, plays likes Alice did, its hard to pinpoint what exactly it is - she simply has a very Alice-ish quality about her. During the first half, I was playing well, but playing reserved - not calling for the ball and passing instead of shooting. Sarah was having a stellar game and everything she put up fell in, so it felt right to keep feeding her the ball. She was practically a sure thing. At the half, she came right up to me, and was like "Look, I really appreciate all the assists, but you need to take those shots. You are our best shooter, but you're not shooting -- we need those points from you." I thought about it a second, and realized, I had only taken 2 or 3 shots during the first half. Hmmm. The second half started and our point passed me the ball. Dribble. Shoot. Swish. It felt right. As we're running back on defense, Sarah said, "Nice! I get credit for that assist!" She was right - she completely gave me a verbal assist, AND boosted my confidence at the same time.

I find that I often feel this way in life, not just out on the court. I am all too often content to build up the people around me, and just keep the status quo in my own life, not pushing the envelope. While I enjoy supporting those people around, I realized I definitely need those verbal assists from people too. Actually, to be more honest with myself, I need to believe the verbal assists I already get. I know that I sell myself short, and when people compliment me, I tend to just brush it off, like "oh, they are just saying that to be nice." In discounting the compliment, I am just beating myself up from the inside out. Which is completely counterproductive to what I am trying to achieve. Just a few weeks ago, I was out with some friends, and one guy in particular kept commenting about how cute I was. It was just platonic flirting, and a nice compliment. Instead of saying thanks and accepting the nice words, I was determined to say they weren't true. Eventually he was like, "Just deal, its a fact." That ended my rebuttals. But, why was I so persistent in disagreeing with him? I am my own worst enemy at times.

I DO have things I am good at, I AM a successful person, I AM cute; I just need to keep taking shots, and know that I can make it. Believing that is perhaps my biggest, and most imposing, hurdle. You can't stop shooting just because you're afraid to miss, after all...

You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. Life is like a game of basketball, at the end of it, you hope you took every open shot you had, passed the ball of when you could, and left it all out there on the court.

What I'm currently working on...

2010-05-11T10:06:00.001-07:00

My goal dress....a size 9. I won't disclose what size I am at current moment:

More television placement for WaterWorks:
http://www.waterworkshealth.com

And some senior photos....

Plus more but that's just a preview of what's going on over here on the island.

Posted via email from restlessmama's posterous

To be (organic) or not be?

2010-04-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

As I was standing in line at PCC the other day, patiently waiting buy my usual pint of salad, I took a moment to survey the crowd lining up in the bustling little deli. The variety of people intrigued and astounded me. Yes, there were the stereotypical 'granola-y' type crowd wearing hemp, Birkenstocks, and the requisite Bob Marley tee, but also businessmen in pinstriped suits, SAHM's with their kiddos, young women rocking their Seven jeans and stilettos as well as elderly couples doing their routine grocery shopping. Just across the street, a new (bigger) organic market is currently being constructed. Obviously, this organic, healthy eating is not just a trend for the vegans, vegetarians, and food conscious epicureans of the world.

I have mentioned the steep cost of buying organic in a previous post, but I often wonder how important it really is to buy organic. There are so many variations of "organic" on labels these days - USDA Organic, Certified Organic, Contains Organic Ingredients, Made with Organic Ingredients - how's a gal to know whats what?! You practically need to bring your decoder ring to the grocery store. Moreso, what IS the main difference in organic versus non organic, anyway? Amount of chemicals and pesticides? If so, are there things that don't normally get pesticides anyway? Its hard to know what things are crucial to buy organic and what's not.

I found this nifty little chart online that helped me sort it out... kind of. Dairy products are one thing that I will always buy organic, and not flinch at all at the price tag. Have you seen what that growth hormone does to those cows udders... yeesh. Only rbst-hormone free milk for me, thankyouverymuch.

When it comes to the fruits and veggies, though, when is it important to spend the extra cash and buy organic?

I had never heard of the dirty dozen until my mom printed me out a list. Apparently, you should ALWAYS go organic when purchasing the following fruits and veggies. They have the highest "pesticide load" of all other veggies, and are listed in order of most contaminated to least.

1. Peaches
2. Apples

3. Sweet Bell Peppers

4. Celery

5. Nectarines

6. Strawberries

7. Cherries

8. Lettuce (does this include kale, chard, and other leafy greens? Hmmm....)

9. Grapes

10. Pears

11. Spinach

12. Potatoes

So, now you know. Knowledge is power! The list also mentioned those fruits and veggies that are 'safe' to buy non-organic all the time. No use wasting money on organic if you don't need to right? Buy the following freely, and don't waste time getting organic: eggplant, broccoli, cabbage, bananas, asparagus, sweet peas, mangoes, sweet corn, pineapples, avocado and onion.

Happy Shopping! Or, in my case, Happy Organic Growing!

Embracing the farm gal within.

2010-04-28T15:24:00.001-07:00

Weeding builds character. Or so my dad always reminded me.

As a child, I loathed spending precious play time in the garden. I hated the monotony of sitting still, pulling weeds, tending to spindly little plants. It didn't seem to matter how much or often I pulled weeds, there were always weeds the following day. It was a thankless, tiresome job, but someone had to do it. Plus, it built character. I am now lucky enough to be full of character, among other things...

Fast forward to today, and I get frustrated when I don't get time with my plants. Outdoor living space, room for pots, a garden, all of these things are major must haves for any home I live in. Time spent in the garden in crucial for my mind, body and soul. Who knew that the much hated, character building chore of my youth would morph into a lifelong passion and hobby?

I recently built a garden at the house. I use the term 'built' lightly, because this garden adventure was like a chemistry experiment. We had a recipe for creating an environment that happily grew 10+ foot tall tomato plants. Envisioning a garden brimming with rosy ripened tomatoes, I knew I had to give it a try. I am a huge advocate of growing your own vegetables, if you can. Yes, it's pricey to start, but there is a certain satisfaction I cannot quite name in plucking fresh basil from your own plant, and selecting only the most robust tomatoes for your salad. Mostly, its sweat equity, and you get out if it what you put in. the more time and care you take, the better all the veggies are going to turn out. Plus, its never been easier to be organic. Feed the plants good stuff and love them, and bam! you've practically got an local, organic produce market right outside your front door. I started most of my seeds inside about a month ago. As they got stronger, I'd transplant to larger containers to give them more room to grow. I bought some starts from a local nursery as well. Plus, it took two loads of topsoil and compost to build this baby. If I don't get pretty vegetables, I may cry.

The groundwork:

We chose an area of the yard between alder trees, backed by a rock wall as the perfect location for the garden. It was in the front yard, got full sun most of the day, and was protected by the aforementioned trees. After bordering the area with round poles, we began the construction. I wish I had taken pictures of this process, but I forgot. Step 1 - cover exposed ground with plastic. Step 2 - Layer newspaper 20 sheets thick over plastic. Sprinkle with bone meal and wet down. Step 3 - Layer 12" deep of alfalfa. Sprinkle with bone meal and wet down. Step 4 - Layer strae 8"-12" thick. Sprinkle with bone meal and wet down. Step 5 - Add topsoil or compost.

Voila! Done!

Supposedly, the alfalfa and straw create a matrix that is nutrient rich, and also holds a lot of water, so the plants are less likely to die of thirst. Well, that's REALLY unlikely here anyway. I think with all the rain lately, I'll never have to water that bed.

It looks as thought my labeling didn't come through that well, but in th garden, we planted cucumbers, red onions, cilantro, parsley, snap peas, peas, kale, collard greens, chard, sweet peppers, strawberries, and of course, tomatoes (heirloom, cherry, yellow).

We strung up fishing line between the two trees to give the peas something to climb up. The kale has been planted in stages, so we will always have something to pick. I am really excited to see how the collard greens and chard grow. I can't wait to post more garden photos this summer and keep you all up to date with the growth!

I'll leave you all with a picture from the pot on our deck - I love coming home to this bright vibrant flowers! If you have gardens, share your secrets! I'd love to know what everyone else out there is planting!

Balance. Or something like it.

2010-04-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

Balance stalks my day to day activities. And yet, at the end of the day, I find I am searching for that elusive state of being that can be called balanced. When I ride, I focus on sitting tall and deep in the saddle, keeping 'balanced' and 'with' my horse, riding as one. When I coach basketball, I teach my girls that the singular most important thing in basketball is balance. Same can be said for life. But they'll learn that as they get older, thats a bit deep for 6 year olds.

Though I partake in this perpetual hunt for balance, that's not to say that I am unbalanced, but there is definitely a sense of general catawampus-ness in my life at the current moment. Everything seems just a bit off, and yet oddly, it feels as though things are finally starting to settle into their proper place. It's funny how a person can be feel both extremes at the same time. As new things grasp my attention, I tend to lose focus on the other areas in my life. Those things that once commanded all of my energy suddenly become like the blurred edges in photographs, there is a vague shadow of a form, and while you know that something lies beneath the fuzz you can't tear yourself away from the focus of photo to let your eyes adjust and see the unfocused bits for what they really are - an absolutely integral part of the entire shot.

Those absolutely integral parts are what I'm writing about today. How if you have one big thing in your life, its good to have a lot of other little things to balance it out. Otherwise, chaos ensues. Perhaps not immediately, but eventually, the main focus may start to fade, and you find yourself relying on those blurred edges to get you through. I think there is a cyclic cycle that creates a natural ebb and flow in your focus. It's probably a good thing, because you wouldn't want to get burned out on the things you love. A funny thing, though I have felt like my Starfisher-y has been lacking in the past few weeks and the guilt for not being up at 4:30 am to hit the gym has been plaguing me, I am still maintaining the 20 pound loss I have had since the new year. Granted, I haven't lost more weight, but I haven't gained either. I've been out to dinner, consumed large amounts of wine in single sittings, indulged at family Easter, and generally returned to my old ways. Even snacking on M & M's at work. I cut myself some slack because I thought I could handle it and not be as strict as when I was on the Elimination Diet. I thought that being that strict was too... hmm, what's the word, oh yes... constricting. Though I am happy with the weight maintenance, I am not happy with how I feel. I need to find that crucial balance between being so rigid with myself and allowing myself a free pass here and there. It's funny how I could not cheat once during the 28 day diet, but the day it was over I was back to some of my original unhealthy habits. This is my goal in the upcoming month, find a natural rhythm in which I don't feel as though I am restricting myself excessively (honestly, no coffee, alcohol, meat, dairy or processed sugars?! How in the world did I think I was going to keep that up?!?). I may need to negotiate with myself - which did you miss the most? Coffee? Wine? Meat? And make some healthy allowances such as these:

Drink more green tea and less coffee, but feel free to have an Americano
every now and then if I must
Instead of eating beef, chicken and pork, just eat out of the freezer and
find new ways to prepare the halibut, salmon, cod and sea bass my dad has
supplied me with
When it comes to sugar, I would so much rather be able to have a nice
glass (just one though!) of red wine at the end of the day than be able to snack
on M & M's at work. Its one or the other, and the choice should ALWAYS
be the vino... Be unrelenting on this one... My tummy (spare tire,
really) doesn't need that extra sugar
If I'm riding or playing basketball that day, its not the end of the
world that I don't hit the gym, but I do need to commit to 1 1/2 of gym
time at least four days a week - If I can't get there during the week, I will
give up my weekend free time

I think living by these "rules" will create a nice balance and compromise between such rigidity and a complete lack of structure. Here's hoping!

And now, on to the other things that are currently consuming me mind, body and soul. I guess you could call them obsessions.... Okay, yes I am obsessed AND unbalanced. What can I say? Nobody's perfect. Please note how beautiful the weather has been here lately... this definitely has something to do with the reason all my passions keep me outside!!

My house
I love this cute little house. It looks right out of a story book. I am currently working on creating a vegetable garden (pics to come soon!), and beautifying the flower beds. Yard work is so rewarding and creates such a wonderful thing to come home to. I bought kale and chard starts, as well as planted tomatoes, snap peas, red kale, and lots of sunflowers! We have fuschias and cascading petunias to put in hanging baskets... its going to be an oasis!

Thomas

This handsome devil is the new love of my life. I am riding him 2 or 3 times a week and just started jumping him! It such a treat to ride such an amazing animal! He has got a personality bigger than he is (he's huge at 17.2 hands), and is just a total character. I love this horse more than I like most people. :o)

Denali

I am still riding this young mare a few days a week. She is a total sweet pea, and such a willing girl. She has her 'own' blog here: Green 'n Green - you can read about her horsey adventures!

What's keeps you balanced? Or for that matter, what keeps you from being more balanced? Can you make some compromises with yourself to even the scales a bit?

One last little note:

Sometimes this blog gets pushed to the back burner, and I forget that there are a couple of wonderful souls out there in the universe that do read this, and they both have been gently (and not so gently) prodding us for more reading material. So this blog is thanks to my Mudgetfish and the Meandering Bohemian. Its nice to know that people read what we write and want more. I'll try not to let you both down in the future.

A New Lifestyle...sort of....

2010-04-10T16:15:00.000-07:00

Not sure if everyone here reads my own person blog Restless Mama and the Bambino but about a month ago I posted that I would be starting a new job working for a public relations firm based in L.A. I was and still am very excited for this change because it meant a few things; more time with the Bambino (or Mancub is how I refer to him), doing what I really, really like, and a lifestyle change.

This being my first week I was very excited to put in my hours of work but also have to time make myself some healthy snacks and meals, get in some exercise and take it easy. That's not how my first week went.

It went more like this:

Wake up at 6:30 am or 7am, get the Bambino clothed, fed and in front of the tele to watch some Arthur and Handy Manny while I check e-mails and get dressed;
Drop off the Bambino at daycare;
Stop by Starbucks for a Grande Chai Latte (my favorite and only drink I get at SBs);
Work on project for work from 7:45 am until 10am
Stop by my friend Amber's place to work out but we end up only doing a mini workout because it started to rain (in Hawaii?!?!?!?!);
Went home to work and finish up on project;
It's around 2 or 3pm - oh crap I didn't EAT anything yet!!!!!
Make myself a smoothie - full after a few sips but chug it down anyway because hey! I need the energy for the Bambino;
Finish up some work before I pick up the Bambino;
Make him some dinner, play, watch Sesame Street, hang out, bathe the Bambino, clothe, and read him to bed at 8pm;
Finish up some more work;
Stay up until midnight talking to my friends in Europe.

It's insane but that's how it's been. Yesterday I got so caught up in e-mails, running to my old job for a few minutes, trying to schedule a Gyno appointment to get an IUD placed, trying to deal with my phone, then buying a new phone and then working on a project when I got home - I totally forgot about eating until 3:30 pm when my new phone battery died for a bit while talking to my friend. I decided that since I hadn't CONSUMED anything yet that I should chug some lemonade and eat two frozen slices of pizza.

Oh yeah my digestive system kicked me in the ass right before I had to pick up the Bambino form daycare yesterday.

Though it may seem like I'm complaining but I'm not. This is what happens when I'm doing something I love. I get so caught up in the project at hand that I forget about my own well being. I did that at my old job in Boston; I'd always forget to eat because I was so busy and loving what I was doing.

The good thing is that from all that forgetting I lost 3 lbs this week but not in the healthy way at all. The bad thing is that I wasn't able to find that work/lifestyle balance working at home.

So next week I'm a bit more prepared. I have a timer set to remind me to eat. I will eat in the first hour that I wake up otherwise I end up storing fat rather than muscle. And I will make a better effort to get out and do more cardio.

Tomorrow I have a soccer game that I'm not at all prepared for, AGAIN!

All in good time.

I sometimes wish I had a trainer to push my ass into fitness but there's no better coach than myself I guess.

Here's to a better balanced week next week.

Missing in Action (but still in action)

2010-04-08T15:31:00.000-07:00

Please don't think we've abandoned our (starfish) post.

We are currently in the processing of revamping some things, and its taking longer than we thought to get back on track. Please bear with us during this time of transition. We'll be back and better than ever shortly.

Go Green... Smoothie

2010-03-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

In honor of my most favorite holiday, I made a bright green smoothie this morning. I am hoping it will balance out the fact that I fell off the wagaon yesterday and had (eek!) three pieces of yummy, delicious, flavorful, AMAZING pizza for lunch yesterday. BBQ chicken pizza. I have resolve, but, alas, I am not a saint (Patrick).

I went to spinning last night, in which our instructor rocked the Irish music full blast, then went out to the barn to ride Denali afterwards. I got up at the crack of dawn this morning to go to spinning again, so I am not feeling too bad about the slip up yesterday. I know those three slices have since been sweated out of my system. Even so, I wanted to hop right back on the (spin) bike this morning. Before I darted out the door at 5 am,, I made this lovely, vibrant green concoction. I have always claimed that people eat with their eyes... when I drink this... I feel instantly healthier. And more vibrant. Like the powerful green juices are seeping into me and making me better, stronger, faster, harder.

Plus, how can you not drink something green on this glorious day?!?!?! This is also a good way to prepare for the green frothy goodness that is necessary at the end of the day!

To make your own, simply follow these steps:
1. Cut and core a granny smith apple
2. Cut and core a green pear (an jou?)
3. Place apple and pear pieces in blender
4. Add 2 cups water
5. Juice 1 lemon -- add lemon juice to blender
6. Blend! Blend! Blend!
7. Stuff 2 HUGE handfuls of spinach in the blender
8. Continue blending
9. Add 3 celery stalks
10. Blend again
11. Add 3 kale leaves
12. Add 5 or 6 ice cubes
13. BLEND!
14. Add water as needed to think out the smoothie if you like
15. Sit back and enjoy the green goodness...

Healthy Balls Recipe!

2010-03-11T10:45:00.000-08:00

The best part about the 28 day elimination diet thus far has been the balls. I am a fan of the nut ball. Big fan. Big. Huge.

Now, if you are like me, you are giggling at the memory of Alec Bladwin doing his "Schweddy Balls" sketch on SNL. Its become a household joke. Can you grab me a nut ball while you're in the kitchen... These gals can't wait for some Schweddy Balls... Classic.

Anyhoo. Back to the balls. These babies are the best. They are naturally sweet, and are the perfect fix for an afternoon snack. I make a batch Sunday and eat them all week long. I adapted this recipe from my whole life nutrition cookbook. Get yours here. Best $23 I have ever spent.

Nut Balls (Raw Energy Balls)
1 cup Raw Almonds
1/2 cup pitted dates
1/4 cup raisins
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp cardamom
Sea salt
1/2 cup Almond Butter
Shredded unsweetened coconut

Toss the almonds into your food processor and process until they are smooth. There will still be some larger pieces -- thats okay. Add raisins, dates, cinnamon, cardamom and sea salt. Continue to blend until smooth. I had to do this part bit by bit to ensure everything got sufficiently mixed. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add almond butter. Using a wooden spoon, thoroughly stir the almond butter into the mixture until everything is gooey and yummy. Use your hands to form the mixture into small, bite sized balls. Roll the balls in the coconut. Store in the fridge for up to a week.

Why You Shouldn't Use Olive Oil in Your Stir-Fry

2010-03-10T20:26:00.000-08:00

Check out the below article I found at Divine Caroline.

Why You Shouldn’t Use Olive Oil in Your Stir Fry

By: Sheer Balance (View Profile)

We all know that certain oils are healthier than others, but your oil health goes beyond just the type. It turns out, that the health of your oil can be related to how you use it, too.
Each type of oil has what’s called a “smoke point.” The smoke point is the specific temperature at which the oil starts to break down, or in more technical terms, its molecular structure begins to change. These molecular changes result in changes in flavor, as well as changes in nutritional value; specifically, the nutritional value of the oil starts to degrade; changing what once may have been considered an especially healthy oil (such as olive or flaxseed which is rich in Omega-3s), into one that is unhealthy.

The higher an oil’s smoke point, the higher the temperature the oil can withstand. As a result, each type of oil should be used for the cooking method that is most appropriate to its individual smoke point and heat tolerance. Here is a quick guide for the next time you reach for your favorite oil:

Heat During Cooking: No heat
Oil: Flaxseed
Best Use: Salads

Heat During Cooking: Low to moderate
Oil: Coconut, corn, olive, peanut, sesame, walnut
Best Use: Baking (low heat), light sautéing, pressure cooking, salads

Heat During Cooking: Medium heat
Oil: Macadamia nut, safflower, canola
Best Use: Baking (medium heat), sautéing, stir-fry

Heat During Cooking: High Heat
Oil: Avocado, sunflower, soybean/soy
Best Use: Deep browning, deep-frying, searing

Note that the above table represents oils that are refined. Most of the oils we buy in stores are refined. These oils tend to have much higher smoke points than their unrefined counterparts. They also differ in nutrition and flavor. Unrefined oils are more nutritious (some of oils’ nutrients are removed during the refining process) and they tend to be much richer in flavor. For instance, unrefined peanut oil will smell and taste just like peanuts, while refined peanut oil will have a lighter smell and taste.

When it comes to extremely high heat cooking, always choose oils which are refined. If, however, you are anxious to have a salad with a rich taste, splurge on the unrefined variety if your palate so desires!

Excerpted from “GET REAL” and STOP Dieting! Copyright 2009, Brett Blumenthal
Copyright 2009 Lauren Mackler all rights reserved. Coach Lauren Mackler is the author of Solemate: Master the Art of Aloneness and Transform Your Life (Hay House, April 2009) and Speaking of Success with Jack Canfield and Stephen Covey. Visit Lauren’s web site at www.laurenmackler.com.

Originally published on SheerBalance

First published March 2010

Photo Tour of my Fridge

2010-03-08T08:51:00.000-08:00

While on this elimination diet, many people have asked what I eat, how I make it work when I can't eat meat, dairy, wheat, refined sugars... Really, what CAN I eat? So, I thought I would take you all on a little photo tour of my refridgerator, and showcase its contents this week.

Our fridge is adorned with lots o' stuff - its the center of info for our house. We plaster the fridge with dog and horse photos, quotes, old cards, funny sayings, and leave notes for each other here. Its more than just a place to store food. Its a constantly changing being.

My cousin's boyfriend lives with us and though he supports our Elimination diet, the no drinking, no sweets and no caffeine bit, he doesn't want to partake. Plus he is allergic to lots of things that we love to eat. This is his shelf (with the exception of my left over smoothie).

We try to premake our foods for the week over the weekend so we aren't rushed for time. I find I am more likely to eat unhealthy if I have no time, and am scrambling to get out the door. This way, everything is ready to go - quick and easy! Here are more examples of the foods we premake: this week we did Black Bean Chili and Lemon & Lentil Soup (look for this on tomorrow Tasty Tuesday!). We always make some sort of raw nut/date ball for quick nutritous snacks that satisfy our sweet tooths! Also, our veggie drawers have never been so jam packed. We buy obscene amounts of kale, chard, and collard greens each week for smoothies and salads.

Lastly, 100% Black Cherry and Blueberry Juice for when I just can't drink more water, carrots, and mint for smoothies.

What's in your fridge?

All this produce is making me poor.

2010-03-04T14:36:00.000-08:00

I seriously think I am singlehandedly contributing to the success of the Kirkland PCC Natural Market. Who knew that VEGETABLES could cost so much money. I try to live by a food budget of $50/week, and I am having a very hard time while on this elimination diet. Healthy foods break the bank. For example, check out a reciept from Friday, February 26th:

I bought broccoli, collards greens, chard, carrots, kale, romaine, green onions, and bulk rice and lentils. $42.30?!?!?! Are you kidding me? Plus, Jenn spent about that buying apples, pears, lemons, limes, and avocados from Costco. I think she definitely got more for her money. Because today, less than ONE WEEK later, the only vegetables that remain in the crisper are the broccoli and carrots. But I am making broccoli soup tonight, so I can kiss that goodbye. At least we still have an abundance of fruit hanging in the basket... Oi vey.

I cannot wait for spring and summer. I am joining a local Community Sustained Agriculture this summer. I can't not at this point. Its just $30.66 a week to buy a share, and you commit to do this June - October. It works out to about $650 for the 5 months. A share size a familyof 2-6 people depending on their eating habits. They have a schedule that gives you an idea of what you'll get each week. Also -- and this is my favorite part -- each week you can go pick herbs from the garden, herbs from the field, FLOWERS!, and greens... hello sunny flowers in the house, lots of kale & chard, and fragrant herbs.

Until June rolls around, I need to find a way to keep the cost down. A few of the more specialized things I will still need to buy at PCC or a natural food store, but I am thinking I can get the produce cheaper somewhere. I am going to stop in at Fred Meyer on my way home and see.

Where do you guys shop? Any suggestions on grocery shopping to save some money? If so, please enlighten me!

Tasty Tuesday ~ Emerald City Salad

2010-03-02T13:05:00.000-08:00

Its been really tough while doing this elimination diet to eat any food that was not prepared by my own two hands. I love to cook, and thoroughly enjoy learning new recipes and tweaking them to suit me, but life is anything but predictable, and sometimes I am unable to walk out the door at 5:30 in the morning with my Elimination Diet-friendly lunch in hand. On these days, I pop up to PCC for a bag of carrots, a head of broccoli and some dried fruit. While I know I can't partake, I always peruse the deli counter to see what tasty delights they have that day.

A few days ago, a co-worker offered my some of his "Emerald City Salad" - a PCC staple and crowd favorite. I had to turn it down because of the red bell peppers, but it got me to thinking... I could recreate the salad at home and still be on track! Its a basic salad, but packs a flavorful punch, AND offers a great base for mixing things up - I can't think of anything that wouldn't be good on this salad. I changed it up to meet Phase 2 requirements, and will continue to add more as I can incorporate more into my diet. This recipe makes a big bowl, I usually just put it in smaller tupperwares and pack it for lunches throughout my week.

Emerald City Salad

1 cup uncooked wild rice

1/2 cup olive oil

1/2 cup lemon juice

1 tsp minced garlic

1 tsp salt

1/2 black pepper

1/2 bunch kale

1/2 bunch Chard

2 red chard leaves

1/2 fennel bulb, thinly sliced

1 bunch green onions

1/2 cup chopped parsley

Optional Additions

Diced red or yellow bell peppers

Diced red onion

Diced cucumber

Grape tomatoes

Sunflower seeds

Avocados

Dried cherries or cranberries

Bring 3 cups of water to boil, add rice. Bring rice to boil, cover, reduce heat to simmer and for about 60 minutes (when all the water is absorbed, remove rice from heat and let cool).

Whisk together the olive oil, lemon, garlic, salt and pepper for the dressing. Once rice has cooled, toss the dressing with the rice.

Remove stems and ribs from the green and chiffonade. Combine greens with fennel and green onion (add any other veggies at this point if you choose to do so).

Just before serving, toss greens with the rice/dressing mixture.

Enjoy!

I heart lemons and limes.

2010-02-26T10:43:00.000-08:00

Before I get into how awesome citrus fruits are, I wanted to thank Ali from The Whole Life Nutrition Kitchen for mentioning us in a recent post. I am currently on day 15 of their 28 day Elimination Diet. Check it out and find some great new recipes!

Back to lemons and limes. Pretty much, they are the fruit of the gods. Absolutely divine. Being able to eat lemons and limes for the past few days has almost been as good as Christmas and Easter combined. I am finally in Phase 2 of this Elimination Diet I am tackling. I had lemon water last night... so refreshing. I sat down with chamomile tea (with lemon!) this morning to look over my cookbook bible for dressings and sauces I can have now that I can incorporate some citrus. Over the weekend, Jenn made a delicious Lemon and Lentil soup that finally gave us the feeling that we were eating "real" food. As difficult as this trek has been at times, I know that my body loves it. I don't know if its the absence of alcohol, caffeine, processed sugar, wheat or what, but my skin has never looked this good, and I don't think I have ever slept this good in my life.

Prior to this adventure, I would classify myself as a crappy sleeper. It would take me hours to fall asleep at night (too much caffeine perhaps?!) and it was so difficult to get my booty out of bed in the morning. I always felt like I was in a fog, would wake up feeling like arthritis had attacked my hands, and perpetually had dark circles under my eyes. 15 days into this elimination diet and my skin is glowing, the dark circle are gone, I fall asleep moments after my head hits the pillow and able in a great mood in the morning. I don't know if this is all attributed to the change in my diet, but I am experiencing such great results, I am hesitant to go back to my usual ways.

I think that one of the best thing to come of this entire process thus far is I finally know my own strength. My work is littered with junk food. They stock the cupboard with Pop Tarts, chocolate chip cookies, cheese, fun sized candy bars, and my own personal Achilles Heel: peanut M & M's. Even back when I was on track and eating healthy, I was still unable able to resist a handful or two a day. I would rationalize that I ate less calories that day so it was okay. Or I logged an hour on the treadmill rather than my usual 45 minutes. This is all bullshit. An excuses. I was weak. I couldn't say no. I couldn't stop. While on this 28 day journey, I swore to myself I would follow it to the 'T.' No cheating anywhere. I am amazed at how easy it is to bypass the candy.

I have decided that even as this elimination diet runs it course, I am going to stick with a lot of it. I am going to view snacking on candy as cheating - not just cheating my diet, but cheating myself. I am better than that. I am going to limit my alcohol consumption... I think allowing myself a day a week to have some wine or go out and live it up is good. That's enough. I honestly cannot afford to do more than that - monetarily or health-wise. I am going to stick to the tea, maybe allowing myself an Americano every now and then, but by no means will I go back to my 6 or 7 cup a day habit. I am going to try to be dairy free. I am going to incorporate seafood back into my diet, but continue to avoid red meats, chicken and pork.

I am going to change my way of life. This elimination diet has opened my eyes to the way things could be. And they could be pretty damn good.

Are there any changes you could make today that will make life better? Try changing it -- its easier than you think. You may just surprise yourself. I did.

Sukuma Wiki - It's a Kenyan thing....

2010-02-24T18:28:00.000-08:00

and it's super easy:

put a saute pan on the stove on medium heat with two tblsp of olive oil
chop up a bunch of collard greens or kale
chop 1 onion - you pick...I chose a yellow onion because I knew the Bambino could tolerate it and it was affordable...produce is up the butt expensive in Hawai'i
chop up 2 tomato - I got the kind you buy on a vine at the store because it's my favorite and oh so flavorful
throw in the onion first until it's golden, then throw in the collard greens to saute and then add the tomatoes last

You can add salt if you'd like but I like to keep it simple and just eat it as is.

Super easy and you can make enough to last you all week, which is what Sukuma Wiki means in Kenyan. It's a staple that is usually served with meals each day of the week. I served it to the Bambino with some rice and I ate it plain because that's just how I roll.

So for an exotic, tasty and super easy recipe try Sukuma Wiki.

Check in next week for a dish from India! That is if my mom lets me cook it and serve it to her.

I herd cats, wrassle ponies, and toss flying discs. Its what keeps me going.

2010-02-24T13:07:00.000-08:00

Everyone at work this week has commented about my strong resolve for sticking to this Elimination Diet. I'm not going to lie, its been hard. Today has been especially difficult -- someone brought in delicious looking cinnamon rolls this morning... oh, they smelled decadent. I avoided the kitchen and told myself my collard green smoothie was better. Yeah. Right. To top it all off, someone polled the office for lunch and everyone got teriyaki. And I ate raw veggies wrapped in nori.

I feel like I am being tested by the food and weight loss gods. Its terrible! On day two of the smoothie cleanse, the 2 boxes of girl scout cookies I had orded from my boss's daughter arrived. Self control made me place them in the back of a cabinet I never open and put them out of my mind. Well. Until n0w. Hmmm.... Samoas. Tagalongs... But oddly enough, its not really sugar I am craving, which is unusual for me. I can satisfy my sweet tooth with dates rolled in unsweetened coconut. But, smells are the worst for me. I can pass up doughnuts, I can pass up the candy bowl that brims with Butterfingers and Twix's on the front desk, but I am a little girl when it comes to delicious savory smells. My cousin and I were at a schooling show last weekend and actually had to leave the show because everyone around us was eating chili, we simply couldn't stand it any more.

So, I thought I would write a little blog about what keeps me going through the day. Other than the obvious goal of dropping the poundage. Though that is a great goal -- its a very intrinsic motivator. Its my goal, and I WILL get there, but on the way, I need some help from extrinsic motivators... distractions - things I love to do and that will keep me busy and active.

1. Herding Cats

So, obviously I don't herd cute little kittens around with my cunning Border Collie or anything like that. Its oh so much worse. I coach basketball to a team of 6 and 7 year old girls. Yup. I think I would rather herd cats any day. In all seriousness, I have a great group of girls I get to work with a couple times a week. Most days it tries my patience, and I swear to myself that I will never have children, but its so these kidlets. They keep me going. I have to run around after them in practice, and often get involved in a raucous game of Sharks and Minnows or Queen of the Court. They love it when I get involved. One of them yesterday challenged me to a game of one on one. Seeing the game through their eyes has made me love it even more (if that was possible). Its inspired me to put together an adult team and start playing in a womens league. I am so excited. I hope enough individuals are interested to we'll have enough women to form a decent sized team. Anyhoo... back to my team of cats. They are some cute kids - and its refreshing to take a step back twice a week and look at the world from the perspective of a 6 year old. Who wouldn't get a kick out of these munchkins?!

2. Pony Wrasslin'

I am fortunate enough to get to work with a sweet young off the track Thoroughbred named Denali. She's a doll. I make a concentrated effort to get to the barn 5 nights a week for some time in the saddle. Its a great whole body workout, but more importantly, its therapy for my soul. It revives me. I need it. I think I would slowly waste away without it. Horses are hugely important in my life and always will be. Hopefully, I get some video of me riding up here soon! For now, here's a picture of my little sweetpea - I am so excited to go to the barn tonight!

3. The Handsomest, Smartest Pup Ever

If I haven't mentioned my dog before in this blog, I am sorry. He totally deserves mention. The pup is my best pal, my partner in crime, and probably the one living thing I spend the most time with. I can't explain how cool he is, you would have to meet him to get it. I know a number of people who would take him off my hands in a heart beat (as if I'd ever give him up!). In fact, I like him better than a lot of people I meet in my life.

There is no way a person can rest with this kind of dog. He requires constant activity, whether it be chasing down a flying disc - his most favorite activity EVER - or just taking a walk. He likes to be out doing stuff, not just relaxing in the house. On a nice day, I have to get outside and get moving with him, otherwise I feel like a bad dog mom. Just the other day, my cousin and I took our dogs up to Bellingham with us, and hiked all over Larabee State Park with them - such a fun afternoon spent enjoying the wind, playing in the rocks and finding secret trails.

What about you? What extrinsic motivators help you get through the day??

Tasty Tuesday - Nori Rolls

2010-02-23T08:51:00.000-08:00

Today's recipe has quickly become an Elimination Diet favorite for both my cousin and myself, and I suspect we will both continue making them for the rest of our lives. I love sushi - it is practically a food group in my eyes, and even though I have to make a few concessions on the elimination diet... no ahi, no salmon, no crab, no anything that is traditionally involved in a great sushi roll. Well, other than seaweed and rice. I love these rolls because you can pretty much put anything inside of them. I am currently rolling them with a homemade pesto garlic sauce, carrots, avocado, green onions, red cabbage, celery and cucumber. If you have the rice all cooked up, these babies are a breeze to throw together and wrap up nicely to be taken as lunch the following day. In fact, I will be enjoying a roll today for lunch.

I got this recipe from the Whole Life Nutrition Kitchen blog - I love their cookbook, their blog, I'd even like to get my shit together enough to go listen to one of their seminars/classes up in Bellingham. Plus, the site is a terrific resource for anyone with food allergies. They have link to other blogs that are vegan, gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free and raw food only. Its such a fantastic resource, I whole heartedly recommend spending some time perusing their site.

Okay, on to the recipe. Please note, I made my rolls with sweet brown rice, but they can also be made with quinoa if you choose to do so. You will need nori sheets (these can be purchased at almost any grocery store, I got mine at P CC Natural Markets), sweet brown rice, and fresh veggies. You will also want to purchase a sushi rolling mat - these can also be found at the grocery or World Market has some great one for $4.00.

We'll start with the sauces:

Garlicky Pesto Sauce

1 cup pine nuts

Basil Leaves (I used 2-3 bunches)

5 garlic cloves

1/4 water

1/4 EVOO

Put all ingredients in food processor and blend until smooth.

Ginger Plum Sauce

1 tbsp kuzu (found in the international foods area of grocery store)

1/2 cup water

4 plums, pitted

1 cup 100% apple juice

1 - 2 inch piece of ginger
1 tsp sea salt

Place plums, apple juice, ginger and sea salt in blender and blend until smooth. Dissolve kuzu and water in small pan (not on heat yet). Whisk blended plum concoction into the pan with the kuzu. Turn heat to medium high and let simmer for 10 - 15 minutes.

Nori Rolls

1 cup sweet brown rice

2 1/2 cups water

pinch of sea salt

Nori sheets

Avocado, thinly sliced

Cucumber, julienned

Carrots, julienned

Red Cabbage, thinly sliced

Green onions, thinly sliced

First, bring water, rice and salt to a boil in a medium sized pot. Cover, reduce heat to simmer and let cook for 45 - 50 minutes, or until all water is gone. Set rice aside. Lay a Nori sheet out on your bamboo mat. Spread rice over the nori, leaving a a two inch portion at bottom without rice. Spread pesto sauce on rice at the top, arrange vegetables on sauce. Tightly roll the sushi up starting at the vegetable end. You can 'seal' the nori to itself with a by running a little bit of water on the edge.

I am super excited for Phase 3 and getting to add salmon to these babies. But for now, I will just have to settle for vegan Nori's. They're still delicious!

What's YOUR favorite type of sushi?

Do you have any rolls you make at home?

Elimination Diet: Intro and Day 7 Update

2010-02-22T10:38:00.000-08:00

Hello readers! Sorry we have both been so absent, but you know how life is - sometimes things are out of our control. But both Ally and I have been keeping up with our Starfish goals, and working hard towards a better us. We've both embarked on some fun things (soccer, basketball, elimination diet) recently so we can't wait to tell you all about them!

I mentioned it in an earlier post, but never really explained the Elimination/Detox diet that I (along with my cousin, Jenn) started last Monday, February 15th. Its a grueling 28 day "cleanse" during which time you abstain from caffeine, alcohol, all refined sugars, meat, dairy and pretty much anything else that tastes delicious. It's strict but everyone who has done it claims it so worth it. Essentially, its a 2 day smoothie fast followed by three phases in which foods that are irritating to your system are slowly introduced back into your diet. The goal of this is to allow your body time to create a decent healthy base by only consuming hypoallergenic foods and then to introduce the foods that have potential to cause reactions back into your diet to gauge your bodies response to the particular foods.

During the first 2 days you can only drink green smoothies comprised of apples, pears, kale, collard, cranberries, blueberries, ginger, cabbage, mint and parsely. Smoothie for beakfast, lunch and dinner. And lots of water and herbal tea. By the start of day two, you really want to eat something chewy, but no dice, just keep drinking the smoothie. Yum. Days one and two sucked.

During Phase 1 (which lasts from day 3 - 9), you can freely eat fruits and veggies (except citrus fruits and nightshades... I miss tomatoes....) and you can't have nuts. And still no meat, dairy, wheat or anything along those lines.

We are currently on Day 7. I am stoked I have made it this far. The hardest part thus far was the caffeine, or more accurately, the lack of it. By the end of Day 1 I had a raging headache (and can't take any OTC headache pills -- caffeine in those), and Day 2 was horrific. For 24 hours, my head/body yearned for caffeine, and practically throbbed because of the lack of it. But... I made it through. I drink copious amounts of herbal mint tea throughout the day and chamomile at night. Its actually quite pleasant. It makes me think it I should probably always be abstaining from caffeine, or at the very least, not drink the gallons daily that I do.

As we progressed into eating real food, my cousin and I had a blast trying new recipes and finding things that we could eat and still be compliant with the rules in Phase 1. I bought the Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook to aid us in this "quest," and it has turned out to be such an amazing resource. Its written by Ali Segersten and Tom Malterre (both Bastyr grad's and Bellingham residents -- Go Washington!), and it will forever be my kitchen bible. Its more than just recipes... Its a way of life. Honestly, the best $25 bucks I have spent in a long time. They also have a great recipe blog where they are constantly posting new, healthy and delicious recipes, as well as tips and tricks to get through their elimination diet. Many of my past "Tasty Tuesday" recipes are from their site.

So, we're onto Day 7. We eat a lot of brown rice, quinoa and greens. Yesterday I made a yummy pesto from scratch, its got a great garlic kick, and its been a great substitute for ranch or hummus with veggies (we can't eat garbanzo beans yet, but homemade hummus is definitely in my future when we get to Phase 3!!). Today's menu consisted of: smoothie and teff for breakfast; broccoli and carrots for a snack; Apple, Avocado and Seaweed Salad for lunch; and I am making Nori sushi rolls (with avocado, carrots, cabbage, green onions and cucumbers) with a Ginger Plum sauce I made. I love love love these Nori Rolls for dinner. I will be sharing the recipe with you all tomorrow, so you can enjoy it as well!

Other than the fact that we seriously have to plan meals and exercise self restraint when it comes to morning lattes and glasses of wine after work, I am so happy with this detox so far. I feel great, have much more energy that normal, and have lost 6 pounds in 7 days. AND I didn't ride or get to the gym last week because I tweaked my back and spent a few evenings getting acupuncture and chiropractic adjustments, so I am even more excited to see what the next couple of weeks brings as I start riding 5 nights a week and working out in the mornings again.

Wish me luck!

Kick it

2010-01-28T16:07:00.000-08:00

Women's Island Soccer

Practice starts February.

Games start March.

I'm very !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

More later......

I want the sunshine. And to listen to Miley Cyrus again.

2010-01-27T09:31:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I like to listen to Miley Cyrus when I run.

But only when I run outside.

The gym has taken Miley from me.

The fact that I actually enjoy a Miley song is unexpected. I had never actually paid attention to her music until I saw a YouTube video of a group of guys lip syncing to "Party in the USA." If you ever want to spend 3 minutes and 33 seconds smiling, just search YouTube for "Party in the FIP." It's an instant classic. Since I saw the video - whenever I run, I'm always noddin' my head like, yeeeaaahhhhh and movin' my hips like, yeeeaaahhhhhh.

This little tidbit is something Ally will totally judge me for. She pretty much loathes most pop music. As I do I. Usually. I miss spring time, sunshine, and the ability to run outside. The gym, though it is lovely, is nothing compared to a nice long run in the sun with Rodeo (and Miley). I guess I didn't realize how much I missed the chance to get outside, lace up my shoes, and run until I read a recent post on Meandering Bohemian, titled Why I Run! I completely agree with his sentiments about running. After reading his post, I wanted to take a half day off work, just for the chance to plug in my cheesy music and hit the pavement. And then I glanced outside, saw the gray that has encapsulated the Pacific Northwest, saw the trees bending in the wind as the rain pelted down, and I was reminded why I bought my gym membership.

Damn rain and the perpetual gray. I know this is the most beautiful place in the world. But I am done with the rain. I want to get outside and run. I want to leave the days issues and worries behind me on the pavement. I want to feel like the only sound in the world is the rhythmic beat of my feet hitting the ground. I want to run, then stretch out in the grass, and run back.

The gym, in all its shiny weights and fancy cardio machine glory, is lacking sunshine and light. Now, I'm not giving up on my weekday morning visits to cardio land, but I am realizing that I need to fit some outside workouts in on the weekend. Working out can be a social thing (which gyms are ideal for), but it can also be some solitary time for reflection. I get too distracted by everyone else in the gym, all the shiny machines, and the 50 TV's all playing at once to actually THINK about anything during my workout. A weekend run with Rodeo down by the lake would give me that ME time, time to reflect on the week behind me as well as the week ahead of me. Time to reconnect with Rodeo and give him some one on one time. Time to embrace my love of Miley (because, let's face it, its not super cool to rock out like that on the Stair Climber).

New goal: Attend my own form of church every Sunday. Weather permitting, I will get out, pound the pavement and pay homage to the rarely seen sun god.

Do you guys have any other ideas for fun exercise that will get a girl outside?

Do tell!

Tasty Tuesday - Thai Coconut Fish Sticks

2010-01-26T11:25:00.000-08:00

In perusing the web ideas, inspiration and recipes, I recently came across The Whole Life Nutrition Kitchen blog. The creators of the blog, Tom and Ali, are from the beautiful bayside town of Bellingham, WA and their primary focus is 'Healthy, Wholesome, Gluten-Free Recipes.' I am in lust with their blog. Every recipe posted is unique, healthy and sounds delicious.

They also have a cookbook and a 28 Day Elimination and Detoxification Diet. I wasn't going to purchase the book and do the detox, but after reading all the comments raving about the detox, I couldn't pass it up. So, I ordered the book this morning, and should have it just in time to make February my Detox month. More on that in a later post, but I am super excited. Follow the link to read more about the detox - it sounds amazing.

Back to this week's featured recipe! As mentioned before, I am always looking for fun, unique and tasty ways to prepare fish. I have a freezer full of salmon, halibut, ling cod and sea bass but so often the most common preparation for these fish is pan fried with butter and garlic or baked with butter and garlic. Yes, this is tasty, but it also gets old after a while. Especially when you pair it with dark leafy greens. I need some sort of flavor, and love a bit of spice.

Most of the ingredients involved in this recipe were not things I had hanging around in the cupboards, and couldn't be found at Safeway or Albertsons. Fortunately for me, the greater Seattle area is brimming with Natural Foods markets, who offer everything needed for this recipe. So after thawing the halibut and a brief trip to PCC, I was good go.

Coconut Fish Sticks
1 1/2 to 2 pounds skinless halibut, cut into sticks
1/4 cup sweet rice flour
5-6 tablespoons water
1 tsp Thai Kitchen red curry paste
1 tsp herbamare (a special herbed sea salt)
2 cups shredded unsweetend coconut
Coconut oil for cooking
Peanut Dipping Sauce
1/4 cup creamy organic peanut butter
1/2 cup water (use more if needed)
2 - 3 tablespoons lime juice
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 tsp Thai Kitchenred curry paste
1 tsp herbamare

Rinse the halibut and cut it into "stick" size pieces, set aside. Whisk rice flour, water, curry paste, and herbamare. Place fish in mixture and thoroughly coat.

While your skillet is heating, place the fish into the rice flour/water mixture and coat evenly. Then add the shredded coconut and mix it with the fish to coat, using your hands to press the coconut into the fish sticks.

Add abut 3 to 4 tablespoons of coconut oil to your skillet. Make sure the oil spreads out quickly. This means your pan is hot enough. Add the fish sticks, I do mine in two batches (adding more oil in between). Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Use tongs to flip them. You may need to cook yours shorter or longer depending on the thickness of the fish. The fish sticks will continue to cook after you remove them from the pan. You can check for doneness by breaking apart the thickest stick with a fork.

To make the peanut dipping sauce, whisk all ingredients together in a bowl. Add more water to desired consistency. Add sea salt or Herbamare to taste.

Source: www.NourishingMeals.com

10 Reasons I Heart My Morning Workout

2010-01-22T16:00:00.000-08:00

So this week kicked off my joining a different gym. I was going to a gym near my house; I would wake up drive 1o minutes to work out for an hour, drive 10 minutes home, shower/eat breakfast/get ready, leave for work and sit for an 75 minutes in the glorious traffic (more like parking lot) that the greater Seattle area is known for. Oh, and I only live like 12 miles from work.

Needless to say, I would always arrive 15 - 20 minutes late for work, AND in a raging good mood. Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiigggggggggghhhhtttt. It totally starts my day off on the wrong foot. And it looks bad, since I always roll into the office late. If you recall, being more punctual for things was one of my resolutions for 2010. And my boss brought it up in my review. I knew I had to find a solution, like, yesterday.

Ally was pushing me to get out of my comfort zone - to shake things up a bit, and I think my mom so sick of hearing me bitch about traffic, that she was getting close to changing her number. So, I decided to join a gym near(er) my work. At first, I was extremely hesitant; contrary to what everyone thinks, I DON'T enjoy living out of my car like a homeless I hate packing a bag every night for the next day, I always seem to forget something crucial (so instead I leave it all in the car and my car begins to resemble an RV....). Also, I'm not crazy fond of getting ready with a bunch of other women. I like my me time in the morning. But I did it. And....

I LOVE MY NEW GYM.

Like, I could possibly live there if they'd let me. And my new routine, pretty much kicks booty.

Here's why...

1. I can sleep in until 5:15, and still be at the gym by 5:45. No traffic that early in the morning! Added bonus - WAY better gas mileage = less $$ spent on gas.

2. I get to enjoy the sunrise over the mountain on my drive.

3. There are only like 25 people at the gym that early - I can use any machine.

4. They offer Spinning at 5:30 two morning a week. BEST. WORKOUT. EVER. Try it today.

5. When you shower and get ready at the gym, you don't dawdle. Its all business. Saves mucho time-o.

6. The other gals showering and getting ready at the gym are usually all toned and super fit -- it makes you never want to eat again and to work out every minute of every day to look like the girl who has the locker next to you. No one looks that good walking around the locker room in a their underwear. Its inspiring.

7. Seriously fantastic customer service at this gym. Every staff member I have interacted with has asked my name, and called me by name the next day. From a manager's point of view (and a self proclained customer service snob), this is awesome, AND unusual.

8. As long as I am walking out the door by 7:40, I can be at my desk at 7:55. This makes me very happy, my boss likes it too.

9. I have developed an obsession with Spicy V8. Its quite possibly the most wonderful concoction out there. I get to drink it as breakfast on my way from the gym to work. Heaven in a glass.

10. By the time I get to work, I already feel so jazzed up for the day, I am ready for anything.

Pretty much, this week has rocked. So thank you to the Kirkland Golds Gym. My mornings have improved by leaps and bounds thanks to you!

My Sick Person's Diet

2010-01-22T10:36:00.001-08:00

Without fail I always tend to lose a few pounds when I'm sick, just like many other people do I'm sure.

If we're friends via Facebook then you'll know that I was a bit ill this week. I did go to the doctors and found out that I have asthma which is pretty common for people who live in Hawai'i because of the vog (smog+volcanic ash from the Big Island volcanoes = VOG...only happens when the trade winds aren't around). So I now have an inhaler for my asthma and I feel so much better than I did earlier in the week.

Anysnooze, while I was sick all I consumed was Cup 'O Noodles (I know terrible), clementines, popsicles, and lots of water & tea. This is my sick person's diet. Actually, I think I my abs got a workout too from all the coughing. This is what helps me lose at least FIVE pounds when I'm sick. Which is what I lost this week. Which is AWESOME!

And then I ate fried chicken last night.

Does it count that I walked 10 minutes to the park with the Bambino, chased him around and then walked 10 minutes back to our house afterwards?

Didn't think so. Going to kick my ass this weekend for those THREE pieces of friend chicken I had last night.

Do you have your own "sick person's" diet?

P.S. Another drink I sometimes add to my sick person's diet is chopped garlic, red onions and chili peppers in boiled water. Totally gross but it really helps clear up the sinuses and the garlic & red onions are beneficial for the immune system. Only try this if you have a strong stomach because it really tastes nasty but it helps. Have I mentioned that I HATE taking medication and only use it as a last resort? Yeah, those hangovers in college - cured with apple juice and greasy food plus lots of hurling and dark rooms.

P.P.S I'm drinking coffee again. With cream. And sweetner. And I just dipped a white chocolate macadamia cookie. I'm pretty sure I just gained back the 5 lbs that was lost.

Tasty Tuesday - Salmon Florentine

2010-01-19T12:37:00.000-08:00

Each Tuesday I am trying to feature a fun, healthy recipe that I am currently cooking and loving. This week, I'm highlighting heart healthy Salmon Florentine. Wild Pacific Salmon is not only full of flavor, but also delivers a power packed punch of Omega 3's. A little known fact about salmon is that a 4 ounce piece of wild salmon provides a full days requirement of Vitamin D - which is particularly great for all of us Pacific Northwesterner's who go weeks without seeing the sun! This particular dish was easy to make, easy to clean up after and tasted divine. Enjoy!

Salmon Florentine

4 Salmon Fillets (6 oz each)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 cup minced red onion

2 teaspoons minced garlic

10 sundried tomatoes, chopped

2 large handfuls fresh spinach, rinsed

2 teaspoons Red Pepper flakes

1/2 cup part skim ricotta

Salt and Pepper (as needed)

Lemon Wedges (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Saute red onions and garlic in olive oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes (or until tender). Add spinach (squeeze out any excess water), sundried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Cook over medium heat while stirring for 3 minutes more. Spinach should be starting to wilt. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove mixture from heat, let sit 5 minutes. Add ricotta and mix well.

Place a piece of foil in a shallow baking dish. Arrange salmon fillets on foil. Pack mixture on top of salmon fillets, then bake. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. A good rule of thumb is to set the timer for 15 minutes, and then check it every 5 minutes until the fish begins to flake when cut with a fork. Bon Apetit!

Nutritional Info (1 serving): 334 calories, 14 g fat, 11 g CHO, 4 g fiber, 43 g protein.

Also, if you have any favorite recipes (specifically seafood), please share them with me! I am always looking for new recipes to add to my repertoire. Thanks!

I need to cut myself some slack

2010-01-18T09:39:00.000-08:00

If you've been reading past posts, you know that I am on this whole total body wellness kick. I recognize and embrace that being healthy isn't just reaching your goal weight and fitting into the coveted size 8 skinny jeans you're been salivating over for months. Its more than that. A lot more.

For those of you who don't know me personally, let me enlighten you a bit about my personality. I am one of those people who loves to have a million things going on at once; the challenge of juggling a variety of things at the same time really excites me. The more you put in front of me, the more focused and determined I become. However, if left to my own devices, without a list of things I want to do that day (yes, I am one of those people), I will spend the day on the couch with Rodeo, catching up on past episodes of Gossip Girl and Grey's Anatomy. Wasting away. Ugh. So, I make a list for myself each night, and its the first thing I review in the morning. These lists are usually super basic, like:

1. Up at 5:15

2. Go Coffee

3. Don't forget: Lunch, Gym bag, Work clothes

4. Gym at 5:45

5. Work at 7:50

Somehow, writing this simple list down before I fall asleep helps me out. I look at it in the morning, and it just starts me off on the right foot. When I get to work, I start a new work list for that day. Extremely nerdy, but hey, it works for me. Needless to say, I thrive on routine. My lists keep me sane, and keeps me going on the same routine. Every now and then I stray from the black and white of my lists into the forbidden gray area. When I am hanging out in the gray area, I tend to lose track of my goals. And when this happens, I tend to beat myself up. In a big way. And then I figure that I have already fucked up, so there is no point in trying. I failed.

I am learning to cut myself some slack. For example, this weekend my old roommate was in town and we went to breakfast. I was craving a Bloody Mary (this is unusual for me, I really don't care for them), so I allowed myself to have one. And then another one. They were delicious. But I felt guilty for the rest of the weekend for going off my 'No Drinking' goals. Is it the end of the world that I had a drink? No. Did I over indulge? No. Was a bloody mary a better choice than a beer or a margarita? Yes. Did I enjoy it? Hell yes. And as well I should. I didn't do anything wrong, I was just so stuck in my 'don't drink' mode that I had a hard time giving myself a break.

Worse, on Sunday I ate a donut. And then I puked.

I knew I shouldn't have ate it, I knew I shouldn't have even bought the stupid thing. But it was almost 11, I hadn't eaten breakfast and I was at the grocery store. It was a quick fix to my hunger. I felt like absolute shit the moment I ate it. I am not sure if it was the overwhelming guilt I felt about eating something so bad for me (wheat products plus sugar overload) or just that fact that my wasn't used to the richness. Either way, it made me sick to my stomach. Ish. So not worth it.

The visceral response (whether it be from guilt or the food itself) was a step in the right direction in my opinion. Obviously my body (or mind) was rejecting the donut. And believe me, I never want to eat a donut again. They definitely don't taste delicious when they are coming back up. Sorry, TMI. Yet still, I berated myself for hours about the stupid decision to purchase the donut in the first place. AH. The trials and tribulations of dieting and being a more healthy person. Next time, I will walk right past the donut case and purchase an apple. A delicious juicy apple.

Baby steps.

A letter from Ally's bottom

2010-01-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Ally,

I've been your bottom since you were born and when you were a little baby you had a cute little bottom. Actually you had the cutest little bottom up until you were maybe 13 and then your bottom turned into the curvacious ass.

It was an honor being your curvacious ass up until you went to college.

Then everything went downhill.

You decided that you were still going to eat the same amount of food as you did when you were an active adolescent. I think carbs-a-plenty was your diet. Then you decided that you, your mouth, and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups were going to be the terrific trio.

Well guess what happened after you did that! Your ass got fat!

Then you went to Norway and your ass was getting back to the way it was and I was happy for it.

But then you got pregnant and around 8 months your ass got REALLY big. Like continental. Not so happy about this.

Then you had the baby and your ass was still big but it was getting smaller because your baby sucked the life...I mean milk out of you(r boobs). So that helped your ass get a little smaller.

Oh but THEN! you decided to uproot from Boston to Hawai'i and then just really let yourself go! Good grief woman! Have you no shame? No pride? I mean come on! I can't squeeze myself into your skinny jeans anymore and hey - your ass looks pretty sweet in those jeans. Granted we look good in the Michael Kors jeans right now but lady, those are a size 16, SIXTEEN!!!!!!! The biggest size you've ever been in.

This needs to stop.

Now!

Please do something about this because fat asses do not get tapped. Plus, it's so much easier to run without feeling the jiggle wiggle.

With love,
Your (eager to fit in a size 8 again) Bottom

P.S. Stop eating so much cheese - I don't like burping it or in your case farting. Stick to pineapples and manoges.

This Starfish Needs Your Help

2010-01-12T11:43:00.000-08:00

Hey folks! How goes the new year for you all? Are you on your way to fulfilling any resolutions you may have made? I'm still working on my list of 27 things to do before I turn 27 with only TWO things completed so far.

Anyway, I have an event in mid-February that I need to shed a few pounds for. I am not required to do this but I would like to look presentable and a good representative for a client. So I need your help. ALL FIVE of you who read this? :o)

I need you to send me e-mails, leave comments, send texts (even though I hate them!) just any sort of motivation to make it so that I can shed at least 15 pounds come February 13th. I've started reading the, "Abs Diet for Women" book and started on the diet and exercise plan today. But I need more suggestions, motivation, and/or inspiration to intensify my workout because although I'm sure yoga is a GREAT way to get toned I need more intensity.

I'm thinking this will be a great jump start to my weight loss if I can lose the 15 lbs by mid-February. Please cheer me on. Egg me on. Gonna get my health on!

What are your suggestions?

What are your words of motivation?

All you need is Posimicity!

2010-01-08T09:23:00.000-08:00

Posimicity = a state of being when one is both positive and optimistic
Yes... I made this word up. But I like. So it works.

So, in a New Year's cleaning frenzy, I recently dismantled three bulletin boards that had graced the walls of every house I have lived in since sophomore year at EWU. It was like taking a brief jaunt down memory lane. I remembered afternoons spent skipping classes and sledding on the hill behind the dorms; 2 am trips to Zips; and many other typical small college town activites. At the end of my reminiscing, I put the majority of those memories into cute, brightly colored boxes. While those were amazing times that I will never forget, I am looking forward now. To whatever lies ahead of me.

The most intriguing part of the whole experience was gauging my own reaction to photos of myself that were 6-8 years old. What did I think of myself? If you are like me, you have that photo framed or pinned up somewhere in your house. You know, that one that you love the way you look in. Where your eyes are bright, your smiling and you radiate youthful exuberance. The picture we look at and think... I wish I could look like that again. Well, I am going to share mine with you all...

I remember the day - it was senior year in high school - at Girls State. When Alanna, Alice and myself took Ellensburg by storm. Or something like that. I have had this picture on my bulletin board for what seems like forever. Truthfully, its only been 8 years. What strikes me most about this picture is my reaction to it now. My sister saw it last weekend and commented how long and lean I looked. Do I remember ever feeling long and lean? Nope. Not at all. I wish I could have seen myself then through my eyes now. Because, rather than beating myself up for needing to lose 10 more pounds, and be a step faster on the basketball court, I would have embraced the following things about myself: My abililty to run a 7 minute mile; my ability to bench press my body weight (which was 160 at the time); the lack of bra bulge; the fact that I could see every muscle in my quadricep; and lastly, the minimal belly fat around my midsection. Ahhhh. Wasn't life a bit better when we were young and carefree?

Instead, I distinctly recall hating my body. It was NEVER good enough; and as such, I thought that I was never good enough. In the last 8 years, I have learned a lot. A big life lesson is that negativity breeds negativity. Its like a cancer of your mind, heart and soul. You need to be positive, otherwise, what else is there? I have a quote that I try to keep foremost in my mind when things get rough, or I start to get down on myself:

"Every thought is a seed. If you plant crab apples, don't plan on
harvesting Golden Delicious." ~ Bill Meyer

It's so simple, and so true. Alice was my best friend for years throughout and after high school. She has since passed on to a better place in the universe, but I have held on to single piece of paper that used to hang on the inside of our shared basketball locker since sophomore year. I think she must have gotten it from seminary or something -- where ever it came from, it is faded piece of paper with edges that have gotten fuzzy over the years. It has a simple statement: Think a good day, Plan a good day, HAVE a good day. Each morning I try to embrace these words. Its reassuring to my subconscious. I convince myself that it will be a good day, and most of the time it is. There are mornings when I am too rushed to do this, and I feel like those are the days when get started on the wrong foot and everything goies downhill from there. I need to take these words, this mantra, and extend it to my fitness and weight goals. And to myself. A simple, 'You CAN do this. You WILL succeed,' can have a transforming affect. Its crucial to know that you are on your side. If I don't believe in me, who else will?!

How about you all? What do you do to combat the bad self talk and poor body image issues?Are there things you could change that would improve your outlook on you?

To log or not to log.

2010-01-05T13:05:00.001-08:00

Like Megs I've let a few stressors keep me from getting to where I'd like to be as a whole. While I could list the stress factors I have in my life right now I'll list the biggest one: MONEY. M. O. N. E. Y. Dinero. The green stuff.

Money is a huge stress in my life because I don't/didn't know how to control my spending. For example, this holiday season I didn't really spend all that much for people since the gifts were "made"/photographed by me and were local Hawaiian gifts such as Christmas ornaments and treats. But that was for the people I know on the mainland. While I still didn't spend much on the people here on the island it's the fact that I was still spending money that could've been put towards savings or my credit card payments. My friends and family would've understood that I couldn't afford to get them gifts but because I felt the need to show my love through material - I spent.

So to take some financial burden off of my shoulders I'm changing a few things about how I spend & save.

Save at least $100 each month (got my first right now so I'm set for January);
Set up a REAL budget;
Not go under $100 in my checking account (because hey! your checkings account isn't just for spending) to give me some cushion (which I'm good with that right now - actually I have more than that right now! doing good already) and build it up another $200 each quarter - cap at year end without going below $700.00;
Log and keep up with my register;
Payback parents with tax refund; and
Pay off my debt by the year's end, which is totally doable.

It's a given that I only spend money on what I need which are diapers and other groceries but I should go back to clipping coupons and shop around for the best deal; pay attention to which grocery store is having a good sale.

I had intended to make a goal of returning to Seattle by the end of 2010 but I'd rather be debt free than to pinch pennies to move back. I'd like for the Bambino and I to feel good about where we are when we move and the only way for that to happen is if I'm relaxed and happy about our situation.

I figure setting up some realistic financial goals will help me feel better and become more motivated in my weight loss venture.

As for weight loss and health; I'm reading, "The Abs Diet for Women," written by David Zinczenko, Editor-in-Chief of Men's Health Magazine. I'm only on page 3 which is the first page of the first chapter; just finished reading the foreword and introduction. It's a 6-week ab diet/workout plan. We'll see how I do with this. I plan on following it to the "T" which means I'll be making regular updates about what I've read and done. Should be a fun project.

My plan is to also log and journal about what I eat and what exercsies/workouts I do each day to help me view and review my progress. I just remember when I worked for Cambridge Savings Bank I would keep up with my register and track what I ate and walked everyday. So I think there's some relevance and truth to journaling/logging everyday. Journal about my daily and random thoughts, my food intake and log & track my finances.

I'd also like to start living a more simple life like that one I had in Norway. Of course, I realize that I was free to do what I wanted and wasn't responsible for another person's life except that I was - I just didn't have to pay for their schooling or clothes or food. Anyway, while living in Norway I woke up and did what I had to do around the house, ate healthy and fresh foods, met up with my friends, walked everywhere, hardly wore make up and never used hair products; not even a curling iron, hardly watched TV and just read and wrote a lot and lived life. Experienced life. Anyway, that's a whole other post.

So here's to a simple life of logging!

P.S. Do you have any health, diet, fitness books you'd like to recommend? Then please leave a comment and I'll add it to my list of health reads. Thanks folks!

A New Year... working on a better me

2010-01-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

Preface: I actually started this blog back in mid-December and then with all the hubbub if the holiday season, and the coolest little sister in town, I put off finishing it. I avoided the computer and spent time with my fam-damn-ily. Also, I was working on resolving to change me in a more drastic, definitive way than the generic 'lose 20 pounds' or 'be more organized' regulars that grace so many people resolution lists. What follows is the version I wrote this morning...

I don't know about everyone else, but personally, I love the New Year. It is quite possibly my favorite time of the year. It never fails to open my eyes and see things in a new light. I also thoroughly enjoy the festivities involved (especially this year, which left me with memories that will last my lifetime), but even more than that, I love the metaphor that a clean slate inspires. I generally find myself being more introspective, and its the time of year when, similar to a snake sloughing off its skin, you think about the person you have been, and the person you would like to be in the future.

Now I know our blog is directed on shedding the poundage, and I won't neglect to highlight on this, but I want to point out that I think weight loss is easier (and comes naturally) when you are happy. Oh, and stress free (have you read the effects of cortisol on belly fat?! HELLO SPARE TIRE!). Therefore, my resolutions for 2010 are focused around precise goals (which I have mapped out plans to achieve) that I hope, will result in a more satisfied, spunky and balanced ME. Similar to the 'Summer of George,' this shall be the 'Season of Megs!'

1. Money Motto: Save More, Spend Less, Be Debt Free!
I have created a budget that is strict, and that if followed religiously, will allow me to generously contribute to my 401K, have banked $8,000 by end of year 2010 and be free of all debt (excluding school loans). Money is my primary source of stress. Like many others my age, I live paycheck to paycheck, hoping that my car doesn’t need repairs and that things will flow smoothly. This is dumb. I need to realize that things will not always work out, and that I need to have some funding saved in case of emergencies. This is the most important thing for 2010.
2. Get Physical
I joined a gym last week, and am committed to being there bright eyed and busy tailed 5 mornings a week. Weekends are off limits, and time to spend out of doors, but right now - I need to be spending the wee hours on the morning logging miles on the treadmill. I also have started riding horses again, and am currently riding twice a week. As a short term, goal I would like to drop 15 lbs in January. Yay!
3. What DO I want to do with my life... Figure it out!
I always toss out vague goals, and it came to my attention last the other day that I need to sit down and spend sometimes constructing 3 month goals, 6 month goals, 1 year goals, 5 year goals, and 10 year goals. I can honestly say I have no idea where I want to be in 10 years... So, I need to work on creating these goals, and get them in front of me on a daily basis. Step 1: Create a bulletin board with goals listed and other bits of inspiration to keep me on track. Step 2: Hold myself accountable (log workouts, analyze savings monthly).
Step 3: Stick to it! (Side note: I will be posting pictures of this bulletin board this evening!)
4. Find Inspiration
Each day I look the following list I printed off of the Meandering Bohemian's blog. (If you haven't been there yet, take a moment and check it out - he's an old friend who has always had amazing insights and has brought a lot that into his blog. It’s a treat to read, a feast for the eyes, and always leaves you thinking.) I always find great little tidbits of inspiration there:These 10 lines never fail to make me think. I want to embrace EVERY line of this list EVERY day. I want to find ways to be inspired on a daily basis. Whether this involves further religious research or daily meditation, I don't know. But I am looking for something more...
5. Stop worrying about what other people think or expect of me
All that matters is my opinion of me, and my expectations for myself. 'Nuff said.
6. Be present in the moment
Too often I stress about the future (see #1) or stress about what people think (#5) - Stress is a daily occurrence in my life. Yuck. I need to focus on being present in the moment, and enjoying each minute for what it is.
7. BLOG!!!
So, if you are reading this, its likely that you are either a) related to me or Ally, b) personally know one of us, or c) accidentally stumbled across this pages while googling something vague like "lose weight." We appreciate all of our readers, and I am going to be a better blogger in 2010. We used to have a number of followers, but our sporadic posts have been more lacking than usual. Stick around, you're about to experience a blog frenzy from these two Starfishes.
8. Work on a Relationship
For those who speak SATC, this is not like Charlotte deciding that THIS is the year she will get married. This is more me coming to the conclusion I am ready to enjoy a relationship. Maybe this is too much information for y'all, but I used to think I had my life all planned out, and getting over that was, well, monumental. Now, I am ready to start thinking about being with someone. I HATE depending on other people, and tend to assume everyone will let me down in the end (optimistic, huh? ). As such, I avoid the whole relationship thing and in turn I avoid potential heartbreak. However, its also LONELY. There are numerous happy couples around me right now, and I want to be 1/2 of a happy couple. So, my taxi light is on.
9. Be on Time
If you know me personally, you know that I run on my own time. Which is usually 15 - 20 minutes behind everyone else. While some find it endearing and some realize I just get so caught up in things that I lose track of time, I KNOW that this is RUDE. VERY rude. I hate it about myself. I am vowing to be on time for work, and early when meeting friends. I will. I promise. I care about my friends and my job, and I think it reflects a lack of caring when I run perpetually late.
10. Reconnect with the Lake
With all the change in my life over the last year, I have lost touch with some people who mean the world to me. To be honest, I was (and still am a little) worried that they are angry with me, that they think less of me, essentially that they don't like me anymore. This fear has kept me from really reaching out. I need to try harder. I want to bridge those connections again, because I won't forgive myself if I don't.

So that's it. My goals for 2010. Some are lofty, some are small and meaningful only to me, but each one resonates within me. Which is really all that matters, right?
What are your resolutions?

Utter Disgust... Complete and Utter Disgust...

2009-12-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

In myself. I am disgusted.

I had a mini breakdown today. Well, not so mini. I ranted (to/at myself) for 15 minutes. It was a bit of a tirade. Cursing everything. Cursing everyone. Cursing myself.

I have been feeling uber sluggish lately, my energy is lacking, and the pants are getting noticeably snugger. For the last two weeks, I have casually walked past the scale in my office; knowing in my gut what the truth was, but sneakily avoiding it. Last week, in a far too rare conversation with Ally, she asked me, "Do you think you could lose 10 pounds by Christmas?" I confidently replied, "Sure. No sweat." Yeah. Riiiiigggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhtttttttttt.

So, after a weekend filled with basketball practice (in which I discovered if you don't use those defensive stance muscles, they will HURT you... I can barely walk today), splitting 1/2 a cord of wood, stacking previously mentioned wood, raking leaves and spreading 9 yards of gravel... not only do I feel as though my body was hit by a Mack Truck, I am disgusted with myself. I SHOULD be able to do those things. Physical work used to be a piece of cake. Wait... I was in better physical shape then.... therein lies the major problem. Oh. And I stayed up until 4:30 a.m. on Saturday evening celebrating the 27th birthday of one of my oldest and bestest friends. Sidenote: we have since concluded that we may be too old for those kind of evenings anymore. In short, my body is beaten. And bruised. And still screams in pain when I stand up from my chair. But... its coming back.

I have been avoiding the scale in my office. Like the plague. Since I don't own a scale, I try to hop on the one at work once a week or so. Yeesh. So I hopped on today. Not good. My self-esteem wasn't ready for this this morning. I am going the gym tonight. No ifs, ands, or buts.

Cheerio!

5K

2009-11-16T16:32:00.000-08:00

Check out what I did this weekend: http://therestlessmama.tumblr.com/post/246249306

I ran it in 50 mins; half walk - half run. I plan on beating that time next month by at least 10 mins if not 15. I'll have to really work it. My trainer is working me so that I'll be able to run an 8 mile race in Feb....oh boy!

Since I had some weird heart palpatations the night before the run and morning of I'll be cutting out sodium per my dad's suggestion this week. I wonder what I'll be allowed to eat then. Hmmm......this will be difficult because I like me some flavor!

Maybe I'll some more water weight and get started on a healthy heart now.

Oh I lost 2 lbs last week but I'm hoping I can lose another 5 this week....we'll see.

That's it for now.

xoxo

Delicious-ness in a bowl....

2009-11-05T11:08:00.000-08:00

Alright. Now, I am not calling myself Martha or anything, but I think this soup recipe is pretty freaking fantastic. I took a basic recipe and added some other things to make it my own. If you are looking for something to bring to Thanksgiving - this would be a great first course (garnished with sour cream and cilantro); or you can do like me, and make some for lunches at work, and freeze some for future dinners. Its easy, delicious and healthy! Try it tonight.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

2 Butternut Squash

3 Yellow Onions

3 Apples

4 Shallots

5 cloves of garlic

2 red bell peppers

1 tsp Curry powder

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon brown sugar

Olive Oil

Salt, Pepper & Sugar as needed

For the Roux ~ thickens the soup a bit

1/2 cup flour

1/4 butter

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 cup heavy cream

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees. Cut the the 2 squash in half, and remove the seeds. Chop the onions, shallots, apples, garlic, and red bell peppers - place in a separate bowl. Do not worry about perfect chopping them; they can still be in big chunks. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the vegetables and toss them with some salt and pepper. Hide the mixture in the squash (where you removed the seeds), and place the squash fleshy side down on a cookie sheet. There may be extra of the mixture, but that's okay, just sprinkle it around the squash. Brush the outside of the squash with a bit of olive oil and toss them in the oven for about 25 minutes. They should be soft enough to poke through the skin with a fork when you take them out. Let the squash cool for a bit and then, using a spoon, scrape the flesh of the squash off the skins. Throw the skin away. Put all roasted veggies, squash flesh, vegetable stock and spices in a pot and bring it a boil. Then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the soup from the stove and blend it until smooth - try to eliminate all lumps. This can be done with an immersion hand blender or by blending 1/2 the soup at a time (it will be too much for one blender). Return the blended soup to the pot; keep at a low-medium heat. In a separate sauce pan, melt the butter and slowly stir in the flour to create the roux. Once the roux is smooth, add the roux to the pot slowly, stirring frequently (this will eliminate lumps). Continue stirring and add the cream, then the apple cider vinegar.

Taste your butternutty squash concoction.
Add salt, pepper, and a little sugar as needed.
Enjoy!

Doctor's Orders

2009-11-04T08:17:00.000-08:00

**There is a bit of back story here, but it is necessary so you realize why I am doing what I am doing for the next 14 days. Bear with me, please.**

So, I didn't tell many folks, but I had a little lump (benign tumor) in my right eye, and I had to have it removed last Friday morning. Nothing major, no exterior stitches or anything like that. No heavy anesthesia, just "Twilight" as they called it (yes, this did inspire lovely, drugged images of a sparkly Edward Cullen... really, can you blame me?). No rehab to speak of. Just healing. I figured I'd be back on feet in a day or two. Three at the most. The Pre-Op notes instructed me to stay off my feet for 48 hours following surgery and then to take it very easy for the next two weeks... Right... Me? Take it easy!? Have you ever sat in a room with me and NOT seen me get up 50 times for random things? When I first started my job at Carillon, other folks in the office figured I was either on speed or abnormally bubbly and energetic. I just don't sit still. At all. I even thrash in my sleep. And I don't enjoy having to ask other people to do things for me. Or inconveniencing other folks. I generally think that if I cannot get it myself, I don't need it. It's a complex. Nurtured by my Jewish mother of a Dad. But, alas, that's another story for another time.

So, my cousin was nice enough to take on the task of driving me to surgery at the break of dawn, and then to watch over me for the days following. Its a good thing too, because she is probably the only person who can successfully nag me and practically scare me into sitting still. (Thanks Jenn! I heart you.) I spent Friday on Xanax, Tylenol with Codeine, with a cold washcloth covering my eye in a pirate like manner watching classic chick flicks. My cousin joined me, while enjoying Xanax and wine. It was like stoned-prescription bonding time... Which, I have concluded, is the best kind of bonding time. Anyways, Friday was a blur, Saturday came and went in a similar fashion (only with more gals joining our 'recovery' group and bloody marys-of which I abstained, thankyouverymuch), and Sunday started with me tossing my cookies due to a killer migraine. The solution: more drugs and sleep (this is what the doctor suggested). This brings us to Monday. The swelling was gone, the bruising was minimal, and I was bored out of my mind. Honestly, there is only so much time you can waste watching HBO On Demand... Side note: I am addicted to "Big Love." And seriously crushing on the dynamic duo of Chris O'Donnell and LL Cool J on NCIS: LA... So... Oh. right. Sorry. Sidetracked... So, I walked with Rodeo to the end of our driveway to check the mail. I unloaded the dishwasher. I cleaned the kitchen and reloaded the dishwasher. I put a load of towels in the washing machine. I had to sit down because my eye was so swollen I couldn't see and the pain was excruciating. Needless to say, they weren't over exaggerating about the taking it easy bit. 30 minutes of housework really could kick my ass. It WAS difficult to pick up a basket full of towels. I spent the rest of the day curled on the couch with Rodeo, yearning to be outside in the lovely fall weather. Yearning to do something, anything. Thank God it was Gossip Girl/DWTS Night (i.e. the one and only night I embrace the act of plopping down in front of the tube and completely immersing myself in nothing). If you know S, B and Little J, you know what I am talking about....

I spent Tuesday home from work as well, but was able to harness my energy into journaling, card writing, and working on a book. Writing one - not reading one. And I figured if I really can't do anything for 2 weeks, I should use this time for something Starfishy. I know, it took me a long time to get to the point... Sorry.

I figure if I can't do any exercise, I better be keeping a close watch on what goes into the body for two weeks. Which brings me to my 2 week system cleanse. I will be going vegetarian. Well, technically Ovo-Lacto, since I plan on eating cottage cheese, milk and eggs occasionally. I have outlined the main points below...

I figure, if I live by these rules for 14 days, maybe this doctor ordered sedentary-ism won't wreak havoc on my body. Plus, I will be hopefully be feeling better and as such, less inclined to gorge myself on Thanksgiving. Hopefully. No promises there. Ideally, I would like to live these 'rules' everyday, not just for 2 weeks. The only change would be the #2. I would like to enjoy a lean filet a couple times a month, chicken twice a week and make my main source of protein seafood. Right now, I am jonesing for sea scallops in a white wine caper reduction. But, that will have to wait.

I started the plan this morning, had my Living Fuel smoothie with a banana, a cup of blueberries, and 1/2 cup greek yogurt. I just ate some carrots for a snack, so I am startin' strong baby! I made some organic butternut squash soup yesterday with squash,onions, and apples from my granny's farm in Central Washington for my work lunches this week - I will post my recipe later this evening. It's a great seasonal dish, and uses very little butter, no cream, minimal sugar, no flour, and most of the ingredients are staples that are found in everyone's pantry. Plus, squash is super cheap at the grocery store right now, so its hard to go wrong with butternut squash soup on a chilly fall day.

How about you? If you can't get out an get moving, is here something you can do to tweak your diet and compensate for the lack of calories? Easy calorie savers can be found in what you drink. Skip the Mocha in the morning and just drink drip coffee. Or even easier, learn to like your coffee sans cream and sugar. If you enjoy an adult beverage after work, switch the vodka tonics for vodka sodas with lime. Club soda has zero calories, zero carbs, and zero sodium. Tonic, on the other hand, has 90 calories, 23 carbs, and 35 mg of sodium per serving. Add that to the 82 calories per shot of vodka, and three drinks become similar to consuming a king size Milky Way. Yowza.

Happy Hour doesn't seem so happy anymore, does it?

Have a great Wednesday people. I will be going home early to ice my eye and pop some pills.

Hello? Hey, Legs! Yeah, I am sure you hear this all the time, but I wanted to talk about your muscle tone... What? No... the lack of it...

2009-10-27T14:06:00.000-07:00

People are always complimenting me on my legs. Even strangers. Seriously. Sometimes, its a little weird - for example, this random guy approached me at Whole Foods last week to inform me that I had beautiful legs, and to inquire what my leg routine was. Really, I don't even have a leg routine, I just run a few nights a week and pretty much live in high heels. Plus, I spent the majority of my childhood alternating between riding my pony (Ginger, see photo) and playing basketball. In short, its a recipe for toned legs. Now, I am not trying to toot my own horn, but, I am going to own it as my best quality. I mean, I abhor my entire midsection, think my arms are like pudding stuffed in beige nylons, but have graciously been blessed by the gods of the genetic lottery with naturally muscle-y, toned legs. Well, the legs and my baby blues. **Thanks Dad!**

Lately, I am not believing these compliments. Well, Ally will attest to the fact that I don't take compliments well in general, but usually when I receive comments about my "nice stems" (ahhh.... Clueless. Classic.), I smile and say thank you, because deep down, I believe its true. The last two weeks - things have changed. I am trying skirts on and discarding them for pants - which never happens. I am a skirt girl. Above the knee skirts have a permanent place in my wardrobe through all seasons. Skirts with heels, skirts with tights, skirts with flip flops, skirts with boots.. you get the picture - I just love skirts.

Well, things have changed. No longer can I see two markers that I have always treasured on my legs, 1) The divot between the two heads of my gastroc, and 2) the outline of my vastus medialus and sartorius. Here's a little anatomy lesson for you (sorry, this comes from my extensive exercise science background... I know the names of all the bones, markers, and muscles in the body... in a weird, Special Ed-ish kind of way). The diagram makes up the group of muscles commonly known as quadriceps. I USED to have definition BETWEEN the rectus femoris, vastus medialis, and my sartorius. Now, my leg is one big blog of muscle. The definition has been buried. Needless to say, its buried under a cozy layer of fat. While I have tried to convince my self my legs are just proactively preparing for winter by adding a layer of warmth, deep down in my heart of hearts, I know this is not true. They have gotten soft. Literally. Ew.

So, Ally's wake up call was blood pressure. Mine was the sudden disappearance of a particular divot on my leg. Vain? Yes. A bit perhaps. But the thing I owned as being my one redeeming physical quality no longer being as good as it should?! BIG PROBLEM! Time for some change. Time to de-fat. Time to add miles to the run, spend a couple hours a week on the stairstepper, start working on some lunges and squats and create a leg routine for myself. Time to take back the tone!

This is simply unacceptable. Period.

P.S. If you have toning suggestions, PLEASE throw them out there - I love trying new things!

Why running feels so good...

2009-10-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

I remember while I still living in Boston and pre-Bambino I got sick one day. That day I felt like complete and utter shaz. But instead of going home to mope in the sickness I went to the gym and ran on the treadmill. Before I stepped on the treadmill I did do some circuit training but I always enjoyed ending my workouts with a run.

I ran for a good 30 mins on the machine and was seriously high off of the endorphins. I didn't even feel sick anymore. Before that run it was only a nice warm shower, gallons upon gallons of water, and some chili peppers, garlic, & red onions in hot water were the only things that could make me feel better. After that run and workout I realized that sweating out the ick made me feel so much ebtter.

Another reason why I love to run? It helps me get out of my funky moods and for the past couple of weeks I've been in quite the foul disposition.

There's something about the pacing, the breathing, and I know this is all cliched but the harmony of my movements and breaths just put me in a different and better mood. It also helps that the Bambino loves it when I run and not just walk. He laughs and laughs when I run - he gets a real kick out of it.

So with the sweating out the ick, the putting me in a better mood, and getting to hear my son laugh - running really makes me feel good.

Now I'm on the hunt for a good 5K to train for and eventually work my way up to a half-marathon <--that will take some will power and good training though.

I'll be going for a run tonight. Who's with me?

10 things to Lose 10 lbs.

2009-10-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

A little list of things to reach my 1st 10 lbs.
Let's see how I do...

Do you have a list? What's on it?

Wake Up Call Heard

2009-10-21T18:32:00.001-07:00

Megs will confirm when I say that I've always been sort of a superstitious, believe in the signs kind of person.

Well today I not only saw the signs but had an actual wake up call.

I read a fortune today stating that I need a new workout routine.

And then I had a physical today for my company (drug test included...awesome! My first one...passed with flying colors of course). My blood pressure was 139/92. If you know anything about blood pressure then you will know that this is not good. But comparing to the time that I had a BP of 145/95 it's a little better but not much and it's still not good. Also, if you know about how I had pre-eclampsia then you will know that this really isn't good news. Anyway, the average BP is 120/80.

My weight being at 220 lbs and with a family history of heart problems and diabetes it's just time.

It's really time for me to get my ass in gear and not just lose weight but get heart healthy.

I really want to be around to witness my son's life.

So my workout routine of just working out 3 days a week will go to 5 days a week with an hour each day. I will stop eating local Hawaiian food. No more Spam (though I stopped that ages ago), no more pork! No more ramen noodles. No more pizza from my neighbor's house. No more, no more, no more bad/unhealthy foods.

Though I've been eating oatmeal everyday for breakfast, I will really have to start eating better lunches and dinners. Actually plan my meals.

So that's where you come in.

This week I have a budget of $100 for groceries.

Out of the $100 maybe $45 will be for me and the rest for my son. So with consideration of food costs in Hawai'i and how I like to eat local produce - what are you suggestions? Recipes? What groceries should I buy?

Seriously suggestions, recipes and words of wisdom are very much welcome here.

Thanks folks!

xoxo

Just a Little Bit Chubby ~ A 'Mudgetfish' Post

2009-10-20T08:21:00.000-07:00

The following post was written by my little sister, affectionally dubbed Mudget by me (this was a nickname created in our childhood years. Mudget = midget + pudge... Yes. This was cruel. In my defense, she used to make fun of my legs by calling them frog legs. Ahhh, aren't sisters great? It's character building my dad always said.), known as Natalie to the rest of the world. For those of you that aren't familiar with my family, Natalie (see the knock out photo at right) has been an aspiring actress since, well, I cannot remember an exact date, its just always been a fact. Natalie wanted to be on the silver screen. She was born to be famous. So, after college, the girl saved up some money, moved to LA in January of 2009 and is working towards her destiny. She has always been just a little bit chubby (as her post title suggests), but has made some amazing lifestyle transformations recently. I asked her to share her story with us, and the Mudget was so kind to oblige. Enjoy her post. Hopefully we can get her to write a couple more with us...

Just a Little Bit Chubby

An easy way to sum up my struggle with the great weight battle is that I have always been just a little bit chubby. With 20lbs over my average weight, I started my college career and made it my goal to drop the excess poundage. I started slowly to become a morning runner. Then I became competitive in collegiate club sports. True, I lost the fat but gained the muscle making me look bulky in size and I was left feeling still “just a little bit chubby.”

After graduating, I made my move down south to California to achieve my dream of becoming a silver screen goddess. They say that size does not matter in the valley of the stars. But please let me be the first, if you don’t already know, to tell that that is a whole lot of B.S! So here I am starting a new chapter of my life and this time I need to get serious about shaping up but rather bulking down. I still had some fat around the muscle (too many nights at the Tav in the Burg), so I needed to start from square one.
Being in the land of the “Thin and Beautiful,” I started my research on all the Hollywood Fab diets, detox, new eating habits and lifestyle changes. I admit, most I tried, but who hasn’t been tempted? Honestly, I did drop the weight off of these quick fixes, feeling great for about a week, but always regaining. So on with new research!

Reading through REAL health magazines, meaning ones that do not supply the quick fixes but the long term fix, I began my quest for a healthier lifestyle. First the exercise plan. Every morning I get up and work out, some days up to three hours! I have routine that helps me burn fat and the excess muscle. I begin with cardio everyday then two days a week I do cross training (i.e. lifting light weights and calisthenics). However, most days I focus on abs and the core. The core for me is essential! I spend at least 15min a day on my core. Also, a great little fat fighting tip is, if you are every hungry, or in my case just bored, before I walk into the kitchen to find a tasty treat I do 25 crunches,10 lunges on each leg, drink a glass of water and then decide if I’m still hungry. More than likely I’m not, but if I am I just did a little mini workout to boost my metabolism and help burn those calories I will consume.

Now onto my eating habits! My favorite part, because honestly, I love to eat. Food and I have a long time relationship, plus I’ll admit it, I’m an emotional eater. My sister, aka Spunky Starfish, says I have a metabolism like a racehorse. I didn’t use to have this type of a metabolism. In the past, I would not eat because of my extra poundage, making my body hold on to everything. But after doing a LOT of research about how the stars eat, I learned its better to keep your body working like a machine and a machine needs fuel. So every 3 hours I give myself a little snack usually between 150-200 calories, mostly fruits or veggies, making my body WORK! Of course I up the calories for the normal meals of the day.

Having this change in my life I dropped 20 pounds in 4 months!! I was stoked. Now I’m at my healthy average weight. However, I’m still “just a little bit chubby” for the Hollywood scene. So on with my healthy lifestyle, to stay fit and just drop a little more to compete for the roles and my dream career. Be sure not fall into those fab diets and dangerous detoxs. They, like some of Hollywood fame, come into the spotlight then slowly fade out.

Be your own Starfish and SHINE ON, with a healthy lifestyle!
Best wishes,
Mudgetfish

The Return of the Starfishery

2009-10-15T14:01:00.000-07:00

Thanks to some serious pestering of my little sister, affectionately known as the Mudgetfish, us two Starfishes are back at it. She was always too good at the pestering. Perhaps its the little sister bit... We are tossing some of it back her way though and gently encouraging her to share her inspiring story with us as a guest blogger. More on that soon!

With regards to my initial goal of losing 15 lbs by the time I visited the Mudgetfish in the land of silicone and sunshine, I accomplished it. I felt great. So proud. Turned over a new leaf. I reveled in my success.... Only to gain 1/2 of it back while down there. Wine tasting + sister time + amazing sushi + YogurtLand = pounds gained. I blame the Mudgetfish. She took me to some amazing places. Plus, the girl has a metabolism like a racehorse... needs constant nourishment. I will be posting photos of our adventures soon.

I am currently working on a few posts and have some fun things lined up for the near future, including some great book reviews, The Winter of the Crockpot (in which I will be creating weekly local, easy, fresh, and healthy crockpot recipes and sharing them with you all! Set it and forget it!), the 30/60/90 Bikram yoga challenge I am doing and much more! For now, I am focusing on getting moved into my new house this weekend.

Anyway, to get us back on track, we are open to suggestions for a new poll. We both thrive on competition. We love it. Yes, it's a bit unhealthy at times. But oh well...

What do you think our next poll should be? Bring it on!

Back from the hiatus

2009-10-15T12:11:00.000-07:00

So we're back! Things were a bit busy for us last month and well the first half of this month as well.

Though this won't be a very interesting post but it's a post.

What I've been up to lately in regards to our weight loss adventure:

Lost 8 lbs only to gain it all back so I'm starting from square one again;
Found an awesome book titled, The Art of Over Eating. Check it out peeps. It's hilarious. Megs will be reading it soon and doing a review on it after she's finished reading;
Started Baby Boot Camp again;
Eating healthier;
I've started a few posts that should be finished by next week; and
Realized that I need to get over my body image issues if I plan on dating again.

Baby Boot Camp is having a monthly challenge - most improved gets a prize. Well I plan on getting that prize. My first challenge/obstacle course is tomorrow evening. I'll be doing crab walks, push ups, lunges, hop skotch, jumping jacks, etc. All of this to regain some agility. The program is ok so far - they finally have an evening class but it seems that it's more of a personal training session since I'm the only attendee so far. I'm going to ask the trainer to pump up the intensity - I may look like I can't handle a good run or challenge but looks are deceiving. In fact I was able to do more push ups (the real kind) than the instructor.

I've decided to take on more liquids throughout my day to help lose some of that water weight. I enjoy a good matcha green tea and oatmeal for breakfast. Lunch usually consists of whatever; rice and veggies, leftovers from a company event (usually veggies and some kind of meat), and dinner well that's where I'm lacking. Though the other night I had a great dinner with my neighbors - ribs, cornbread, and black eyed peas. Nothing like some southern comfort food.

Tonight I plan on practicing for the tomorrow's obstacle course so that should be fun.

I'm also looking into some activities that the pacific islanders would do to stay in shape like paddling, surfing, canoeing, hula, etc.

Think I'll be able to survive tomorrow's obstacle course? It's supposed to be pretty intense and non-stop.

Wish me luck!

Leave a message at the beep.......

2009-09-25T11:17:00.001-07:00

Hey folks!

We apologize for not having posted anything in a while - we've both been pretty busy this month.

Megs was busy with her event she had a few weekends ago and getting ready for her trip to L.A. to visit her sister. We probably won't be hearing from her until the first full week of October. Know that she has been on track with her weight loss goal and is continuing her efforts while in L.A.

Ally has been busy dedicating posts on her other blog to her son since it is his birthday month. She's also been busy working on some other projects with her friends and preparing for another busy month in October and her broken (but now fixed) car. She should be back on track next week with a few updates.

While we understand that it's harder to build an audience and credibility with the sporadic posts that's just how life goes. Just know that we're doing what we can to stay healthy and will be posting soooooooooooooon!

See ya later peeps!

Personality & Eating Habits

2009-09-16T12:28:00.000-07:00

Check out this article that talks about eating habits in connection with a person's character - click HERE to read.

I'm a fast eater, food mixer, and enjoy trying new foods. What does that say about me?

Stroller Strides v Baby Boot Camp

2009-09-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning I joined the Stroller Strides class recommended by one of my fellow mamas (who is so tiny that you wouldn't think she'd need SS but she does it...good for her staying healthy).

Now with Baby Boot Camp I was able to keep up a bit and my muscles didn't cramp and I didn't feel like an old lady when I finished my classes. But with Stroller Strides - I got my ass kicked HARD! Oh and of course I came the day that we were doing hardcore cardio....so yeah...I felt like I was going to puke when we were done. But that's probably because I was dehydrated, out of shape, and tight.

Let's start from the beginning...

I get to class and meet some of the other moms before the session begins. I notice that they're all in the early to mid 30's and are in much better shape than I. Ok, so they're going to kick my ass at anything we do today.

Then the instructor arrives. She's probably in her mid 30's, hot, fit, and just by looking at her you can feel the intense energy inside of her. Today's class is going to push me to the limits - I can tell. I mean, the woman walks with perfect posture - I just know she's going to expect me to challenge myself.

Which is why I'm there right? To challenge myself and get healthy? Sure.

So what's our warm up? Side stepping, grape-vining, and high kicks. I'm already dizzy and nauseated just by the warm up. Man I am sooooooo out of shape.

Then our next task is to jog just 1/2 a mile but I'm so chicken and know that those moms are going to beat me with their long legs and toned bodies - so I opt to power walk with the instructor. She tries to reassure me that Stroller Strides is mainly a walking class with the option of jogging but what mom trying to lose weight just wants to walk around the whole class? Definitely not the moms in this class. But I walk anyway and get my heart pumping.

At our next stop we use the exercise bands for some arm toning. I was able to do the first set of arm workouts but then we were supposed to do another arm workout and my muscles were not prepared for that at all. So they punished me but cramping and even with my efforts to hydrate - they still whiplashed me into submission. I had to sit out on the rest of the workout. Crap. Now I look and feel like such a pansy.

We do some more jogging/walking - an obstacle course which I could only do 2/3 of because the Bambino started to cry for some milk. Thanks and dammit Bambino - I was getting into a good rythym by then but I was also feeling like I was going to hurl. Does that make sense? Oh well - that's how I felt.

Finally we ended with some did the Swedish mile or Indian run or whatever you want to call it - it's different with each region and some ab workouts. I love the Swedish mile and I have a love/hate relationship with ab workouts. Love them because they lead to sexy abs, hate them because they're soooooooo freaking hard and I'm just not that centered.

So I'm doing working my abs but then all of the sudden I get a cramp in my stomach that almost feel like labor pains, so I'm moaning and groaning (and not in a good way) because I've NEVER felt my abs cramp up on my like this. It felt like an alien was kicking and tugging at my innerds and mucles.

I was done. D-O-N-E. Thanks Stroller Strides for kicking my ass.

At the end of the class I chatted with my mama friend and the instructor who is super sweet but really intense (as she should be).

If I had the finances to do the class I would attend their Saturday morning sessions and stick with Baby Boot Camp's evening classes BUT I don't.

I like both classes for different reasons. SS is intense and will definitely challenge me to my core and BBC is a bit more gentle but still kicks my bum into gear.

Let's just hope that I'll be able to afford to do such classes soon.

For now it's back to motivating myself to hit the pavement with the Bambino and stroller on my own.

I'm baaaaaacccckkk!

2009-09-14T10:54:00.000-07:00

So finally, after months and months of preparation, the event at my work is over. It was a huge success. I have spent 40 of the last 60 hours on my feet setting up, maintaining the event, and tearing it down. In retrospect it was fun. In the moment, it was heinous.

We haven't heard the total amount of money raised yet for childrens uncompensated care at Evergreen and Seattle Children's Hospital, BUT I know we had over 2,500 attendees. At $20 a person that adds up quick - plus all the souvenir sales. I am hoping it was the best year yet, with the most money raised thus far. (We've raised over a million dollars in the last six years!) If you are interested to know more about this amazing event, check out our website: www.kirklandconcours.com. The vehicle shown above is the car what was awarded Best in Show yesterday. Owned by Arturo Keller, this 1939 Mercedes BEnz 540 Autobahn Kourier Coupe was one of the many gorgeous cars to grace Carillon Point. There was a lovely 2009 red Alpha Romeo that stole my heart as well! Oh, if only...

So, that's enough plugging for the event I did, and enough about why I have been absent from posting. Ally has done a wonderful job keeping up on things, but I feel bad, as this was a dual effort. So, since my last post things have been going well. I completely bailed on our wall sit competition, I think I remembered we were competing three days after the contest was over. Oh, well. Such is life. The good news is I have kept busy running around like a chicken with my head cut off prepping for the Concours, and have tossed in workouts when I had time. Since the conception of our little weight loss blog, I have lost 12 pounds. I stepped on the scale this morning expecting to be shamed by a gain (stress in my life = poor eating habits and less focus on exercise), but there was a 5 pound loss since my last weigh in! I must say I was a little inspired by my own ability not to have ballooned up and out. Also, this means I am right on track to meet my mini goal of 15 pounds lost prior to heading to the land of palm trees, paparazzi and silicone on September 23rd. 3 pounds in the next 9 days is totally doable. Plus I bought this great little sundress that is going to make salads SO worth it! The beaches of LA here I come!

Oooohhhh, and another little bit of news, Ally and I were approached by the blog editor of EverydayHealth.com about contributing a weekly blog. It sounds like a great opportunity to get some more exposure and support on our big slim down venture! Hopefully, we can make it work.

Lastly, I have been working on my planks.... Up to 1 minute with a standard plank, and I'm at about 45 seconds when I do the side/oblique planks. I wish I had a work out partner sometimes, cause its great to have people push on you when you are holding the plank, it really strengthens the abs even more. Oh, and I miss throw downs. Luckily for me, Ally may be moving back to her home sometime in the near future. I am looking forward to weekly (or twice weekly) workouts with her and the Bambino!

XOXO

Baby Boot Camp

2009-09-09T16:22:00.001-07:00

Tonight's the first night of Baby Boot Camp revival.

Who thinks I'll make it through the class sans vomit?

I'm so excited to get my hardcore fitness on.

Bring it on BBC!

(I'll post photos tomorrow)

**Update - The instructor didn't show last night so BBC was a no-go. Instead I walked around the park with my friend and her daughter...while the Bambino slept.**

Because we sometimes need a filler post...

2009-09-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

With Megs being busy finishing up the final details for a work event and with me busy with some of my other projects we'd like to present you with a filler post.

Enjoy some articles on health and weight loss:

Getting Real About the High Price of Cheap Food
A Users Guide to Health at Every Age
For the Overweight, Bad Advice by the Spoonful
Fat Tax
Parenting and Food: Eat Your Peas. Or Don’t. Whatever.
20 Super Foods for Weight Loss

Happy reading - maybe you can print the articles and read them while you do your thing on the Eliptical or run on the treadmill.

OR while you're doing planks!

Feel like challenging us? Then do your own planks and tell us how you did next week when we reveal who was able to hold theirs the longest. If you beat our time there may be a prize for you...........

New Poll - Planks

2009-09-08T19:32:00.001-07:00

Weigh in on who you think can hold their planks the longest.

So far...

2009-09-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

Before last week I had lost 8 lbs and while I haven't gained back ALL of the 8 lbs I gained some of it back last week with my gracious neighbor, Amber, feeding me everynight with pizza, pasta, etc. I didn't eat dinner at home once last week.

I also didn't do much in the workout department.

But I have a revival! This week is the beginning of evening Baby Boot Camp classes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so excited to be doing BBC again - fun workouts and fun moms.

Now that my neighbor's husband has returned from his weeklong training in California - I am now able to eat at home or not eat at home. I ususally eat big enough lunches that I'm just not hungry for food when I get home and I've just been feeling full anyway so by the time night hits I just want to drink some water or tea and not eat.

As for the wall sits I made it to 4 mins and 44 secs.

I bought a baby yoga dvd for the Bambino a few weeks ago and plan on reviewing it this week. Two words: Wai Lana. I'll also let you know how BBC goes tomorrow evening. Wish me luck!

How's your progress Megs?

Pizza is the Devil!

2009-09-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

Last night, after all of my great efforts of not eating junk, I caved into my temptations and ate 3 (count 1,2,3!!!) slices of pizza along with some cinna-pie!!!!!

After two weeks of my body feeling amazing (8 lbs lost by illness, liquid diet, smaller portions, less frequent snacking/scarfing) my today feels like mush. My body temp is higher, my digestive system feels like I want to go to the bathroom every 10 minutes, and my eyes....my eyes are tired! Junk food makes me restless, which is really bad for me since I'm restless enough as it is. Imagine an 8-year-old with ADD on crack. Now think of that same kid but also with continuous IV of Red Bull - that's me after eating junk food.

My lesson - not to eat junk food pizza ever again! Or junk food in general.

Today I'm just drinking lots of water in the hopes of detox and eating a spinach salad with avocado, chicken breast, and banana peppers for lunch. And Tonight I will be running with the Bambino and drinking a smoothie for dinner - hopefully then I can get rid of this junky feeling.

Gimme just a little more time....

2009-09-02T17:40:00.000-07:00

There has been concern expressed regarding my lack of blog-age.

Never fear, Starfish readers, I shall blog again. Soon. Really soon. I have just been so extremely overbooked with work that I don't normally get home until 7 and by the time I work out and have a bite to eat - the last thing I want to do is sit down in front of the mac and type an interesting blog. It would probably be a terrible one anyway. My job is eating away at my creativity right now (long story short, we have an annual event at Carillon Point that benefits both the Seattle Children's and Evergreen Hospital. Its HUGE and is currently occupying 95% of my available brain space). But things are getting better, and I have been leaving work before 6:30 the last two days, so I anticipate time to plan/write some blogs over the weekend, so be prepared my my witty words in a few days. I promise.

Go, Megs, go!

2009-08-31T09:20:00.000-07:00

Let's do a little cheering for Megs! Let her know that we miss reading her posts and are extremely excited to hear all about her progress!

You can do it Megs! Keep up the hard work!

Something to egg you on a bit.....I can do 1 min 38 sec for the wall sits. What can you do lady? I plan on pushing myself to 2 min this evening...maybe get in a few during work.

Bring it on lady!!!

You can do it!

Wall Sits

2009-08-27T09:04:00.000-07:00

Looks like we're dong Wall Sits!

Bring it on Megs!

Can you feel the burn yet?

Mama's Diabetes Story

2009-08-25T16:23:00.000-07:00

The following is a post from my (Ally's) mom and how she's reached a point to where she can control her diabetes with diet and exercise. My mom has always been a cute and petite lady but when she found out about her diabetes she did such an amazing job at controlling what she ate and getting back in shape. During my high school graduation everyone commented on how great she looked and how much weight she'd lost. One would think I was jealous at her attention - but she deserved it. She worked so hard.

We will be featuring more guest bloggers with their inspirational stories to tell.

My whole family has diabetes. I knew before I got married I would be a canidate for diabetes that's why I stress on you to always check your blood for diabetes (my mom's telling me to do this).

I found out six years ago about my Typ 2 Diabetes. My doctor set an appointment with a nutrionist, to set a goal and weight for my diabetes. Next we set up a daily menu with a 1,500 calorie a day. Then foods that I can have and foods with sugar like sweets & carbs. When it comes to carbohydrates it's wise to choose a certain amount of grams for the carb intake. I chose to have a daily intake of 15 grams of carbohydrates but to exceed 20 grams.

Pasta and rice product is your enemy! and must only be eaten in small portions.

My doctor prescribed some diabetes meds. So with the medication and daily menu I went from from 180 to 160. (Go mama!)

There are times that I did get tired of doing and sometimes I would slip but I always felt really guilty . Thankfully I had a great doctor that I consult with and he told me it's alright that sometimes it get stressed doing the same diet over and over but that I had to know it was for my well being. He told me he liked my numbers and I was doing a good job and that it was ok to go off on your daily menu but not make a habit out of it.

My husband and I returned from a 3 week cruise around Europe. I gained 10 lbs while on the trip from eat all of the delicious European cuisine but have lost 4 lbs. Just six more pounds to go until I am back to 160.

I'd like to lose another 10 lbs and this will be on steady point. I do find that exercise is big help with the diet, if I can exercise at least 30 min a day then I'm doing good. The long exercise routines aren't necessary - especially if they make you fatigued for the rest of the day. Just a nice enough workout with some sweat and increased cardio should suffice. That way one can still function for the rest of the day.

I am not the perfect diabetes patient but I am perfect for what I need to do for my diabetes problem. If I can help anyone in anyway who is having a problem with their diet I would gladly do it.

Some Minor Adjustments

2009-08-25T12:41:00.000-07:00

Hey folks!

You may have noticed that we have a new look. You like?

You may also notice that our navigation buttons lead you to some unfinished pages - we're working on it.

We're also still working on getting back into shape.

So far Megs has lost 6 lbs (though she may have lost more now) and I have only lost a measly 2 lbs (though a bit more perhaps since I am sick...AGAIN!).

Megan beat me with her 18 push ups where as I could only do 10.

What do you think our next poll should be?

Leave a comment and we'll randomly decide which task to compete on next.

My New Workout Plan

2009-08-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much Shredheads I now have a great workout plan to get me back to running shape.

Note that I haven't signed up for a race but I like the idea that I'm working out like I am.

Check it out - click HERE.

Sorry for the short post - the Bambino's been up all night the past 3 nights which means I don't really have the brain capacity to write.

-Ally

How does it all add up?

2009-08-19T21:45:00.000-07:00

So, things have been pretty darn busy this week, and as such, my goals for writing a couple blogs a week have been thwarted by work and basically, life. Life is rough, and it can get in the way sometimes. It sounds weird, but in order to stay on track, you need to be selfish. You need to put yourself first, and even though the kitchen needs to be cleaned, and there's laundry to be done, or projects that have looming deadlines at the office - you still need to put you and your health first and get your booty moving. Take that time to hit the pavement or get on the treadmill. Luckily, my little doglet, Rodeo, can be involved in these get up, out and get moving activities. He's ready and rarin' to go anytime. I could run 4 times a day and he would happily come along. And bonus - I have actually made some progress on this little Starfish venture of ours. I had a doctors appointment on Monday and.... drumroll please.... I have LOST 6 POUNDS since July 26th. Wahoo! Its nice to know the calorie counting and the all the efforts are paying off.

Which brings me to the point of this here little blog. Weight loss is really a simple math equation. Your body needs a certain number of calories to maintain your current weight, and if you eliminate (or expend) calories off of this number, the pounds should melt away. Theoretically. You do have to think about the type of calories you are eating - you can't just eat candy all day as long as you stay below your caloric maintenance point.

So. Simple math, you say? Really? Indeed, my friend!

But what is your starting point? How do you know how many calories your body need's the maintain your current weight? There are lots of complex equations and formulas based on not only your body weight, but your activity level, steps walked in a day, etc. This number is known as your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). I have found a basic, easy to use formula that also gets you close to this calculated BMR.

(Body Weight X 10) + 10 = the calories your body needs to maintain its weight

My equation looks something like this:

(230 x 10) + 10 = 2,530 calories

Or 17,710 calories a week. Yowza. Thats quite a few beers.

This is a lot of calories. A pound is equal to 3,500 calories. So if you can eliminate/expend 7,000 calories in a week, you should lose 2 pounds. I have been keeping track of EVERYTHING I eat and drink, and I am currently averaging between 1,200-1,500 calories a day (about 10,500 calories/week). The difference in what my body needs to maintain, and what I have been eating is almost 7,000 calories alone! This means I could just eat healthy and shed some poundage!

Of course, exercise is crucial just to be a healthy individual, and cardio activity should be a part of everyone's life. And anaerobic exercise - strength training - helps with muscle tone and speeds up your metabolism. You don't have to join a gym or pay for some high priced trainer in order to get fit - though the extra support and guidance is invaluable. Body weight exercises like push ups, squats, lunges, tricep dips and ab planks have fantastic toning results! Plus, you've always got your body weight with you (for now!). So, hit the pavement for a run/walk, and stop every 10 minutes or so to do push ups or squats! Lacking the upper body strength to do a standard push up at the moment? Start out against the wall, just working against gravity and your own weight.

Start small and take some baby steps. It all adds up!

Oh, and I want to thank my Mom for a great concept, and a fabulous gift. Ally & I both received adorable little Starfish magnets in the mail this week. Mine is located on my fridge, so I have a visual reminder of the Starfish Project and my goals. Its brilliant! She bought one for herself too! The project is spreading! My suggestion to you all, cut out a picture of a starfish and post it on your fridge. Remember that you have a support system!

Seriously... 50?! @#$%!

2009-08-19T16:14:00.000-07:00

Everyone (and their dog) knows I love and embrace a good challenge. My competitive streak is widely known.

But 50 push ups. For real?

I just made it to 10 this afternoon in my office and 50 is a long way off. We are talking real, honest to God push ups. No knees, no sagging back, no half assin' it. But I will keep on trucking. If I can't raise my arms to put my hair in a pony tail by Saturday, know that it will be your fault. Whoever you are.

50 Push Ups

2009-08-19T14:11:00.000-07:00

So you folks are either a) crazy, b) have a lot of faith in our push-up abilities, or c) very, very cruel individuals.

If it's [a] then that's ok, we're a little crazy too.

If it's [b] then oh man we have a lot to live up to and hope we can meet your expectations and thanks for the vote of confidence?

If it's [c] then BAH!!!! Megs is starting out with 6 push-ups and someone's thinking that she's going to be able to do 50 by week's end. I hope you're doing 6 push-ups per hour Megan if you're going to reach fifty by Friday or do them on your knees!!!!!!!!! I love that nobody thinks that I can do fifty...seriously I do - I at least have that pressure off my flabby arms.

But seriously folks? Fifty? I mean Megs is pretty much the equivalent to Wonder Woman but starting off with six to fifty in one week?

God speed to you Megs.

Push-up Face Off!

2009-08-17T13:45:00.001-07:00

Megs and I will be having a face off on who can do the most push ups by the end of the week.

I'm starting out with 5 which is a feat in itself because I've got a lot to be pushing up with just my two flabby arms. I've already got someone voting that I'll be able to do 25 by week's end. We'll see about that.

Each time I did push ups this weekend the Bambino decided to make fun of me by laughing. Seriously, the babe was cracking up with each groan and push up that I did.

Don't laugh baby because it's these arms that cuddle and carry you!

Actually, keep laughing because then it gives mama more motivation and well who doesn't like a good laugh during a workout?

Cast your votes folks! Look to your right and click on the amount you think we'll be able to do.

What are you starting out at Megs?

~Ally

P.S. My arms are sooooooooooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrr from just doing 10 push ups this weekend. I'm a weakling but not for long!

11 Things Children Can Teach You About Exercise

2009-08-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

My friend Erica sent me an article from BabyFit by Sparkle People about the things children can teach you about fitness.

Thank you so much for sending this to me you lovely lady!

Check out the article below - you're going to enjoy these tips even if you don't have kids!

The Littlest People Know the Biggest Motivation Secrets --

By Mike Kramer, Staff Writer

The answers to fitness success aren’t in the bookstore. You won’t find them in the latest government research labs. Forget about talk radio, late night TV, or a magazine rack full of scantily clad cover models.

You’ll uncover information and data there, for sure. You’ll find plenty of opinions, ideas and "proven techniques" too. But the REAL answers – the stuff you can use every day – can be found anytime at your local playground.

Everything you need to know about fitness and exercise, you can learn from kids.

Have you ever watched a child completely engrossed in a project? They have the magical ability to be serious about what they’re doing without taking it too seriously. You can do the same with your exercise program. You can live every day with more focus, and every week with more motivation.

Here’s what every child knows that you may have forgotten. See if you can apply some of these lessons to your daily program:

Everything can be a game. Why slog through the same workout routines in boredom, when you can add a little fun? Make up rules, shoot for personal records, regain your competitive spirit.
Don’t walk when you can run. Every day is full of opportunities to increase your fitness. This rule is closely related to "don’t drive when you can walk."
If you don’t like it, don’t eat it. Once you reach your goals, chances are your eating habits won’t stick around long if you hated what you were eating. Healthy eating involves balance and moderation.
Laughter feels good. Kids seem to inherently know that laughter can ease blood pressure, help your brain function, give you energy, and help you reach your goals. Smiling and enjoying yourself can be serious help.
Playtime is important. We get so caught up in work, chores and a host of "have-to's" that we forget to take time for ourselves. Not only does relaxing and regrouping make life worthwhile, it has real health benefits. Most of all, it will help you stay consistent and motivated.
The world should be full of color—especially on your dinner plate! Splash it with as many colors as possible, paint it like a rainbow with food. It’s more fun to look at, the most colorful produce options often pack the most nutrients, and chances are you’ll be eating a healthy, balanced meal.
It’s always more fun with friends around. Children tend to gravitate toward other children. It gives them spirit and makes them want to play all day. Working out with other people is almost like having your own little playgroup.
Adventures are found outside, not inside. Every kid knows that the good stuff is in the great outdoors—fresh air, wide open spaces, limitless possibilities. You can’t find those things cooped up in a tiny, stale gym. Open the door and start a new adventure every day.
It’s important to use your imagination. You can be Major Fantasia or Stupendous Woman any time you want. Give yourself permission to believe in your own super powers and let your mind take you wherever it wants to go.
Anything is possible. No fear, no self-doubts, no negative self talk, no self-criticism, no worries, no destructive anxieties or thoughts of failure. To a child, he/she can do anything. And do you know what? They’re right.
You have your whole life ahead of you. Here’s your chance to do it right.

The answers to fitness consistency are probably about 3-4 feet tall, and may be closer than you think. When you act more like a kid, suddenly the world opens up. Living a healthy lifestyle becomes something you want to do every day. Start enjoying yourself again!

I want to live

2009-08-14T13:34:00.000-07:00

I'd like to elaborate on one of the reasons why I've made a commitment to lose weight and lead a healthy lifestyle.

As I mentioned in my first post one of the reasons I'm doing this is to provide a healthy way of living for my son. His first birthday is approaching and this makes me excited and nervous. The excitement is for obvious reasons; he'll be achieving a great milestone and will have reached many milestones within this ONE milestone in itself. I am amazed and so proud.

The anxiety comes to the thought of the many other birthdays and things that he'll acheive throughout his life that I want to witness and be a part of and could miss out on if I don't take care of my body.

With reading about Diane Schuler's wrecklessness, knowing how my one of my aunts passed away in her 30's due to a heart attack, my grandmother who passed away from a stroke, my risk of diabetes, alcholism and heart disease in my family, and many other things - a mom could get scared. Schuler chose an unhealthy life and has left her living son motherless and husband without a wife.

My aunt left her daughter without a mother, in fact her daughter never got to know her mother at all because my aunt passed away when my cousin was just an infant.

I never got to know my biological grandmother because she had a stressful life and well...the most of you know how a stroke goes right?

Though my dad began living a healthy life after his first heart attack, he still ended up having a heart transplant. Even though I see my dad as a brave man and his condidtion was mostly genetic it was still hard growin up to see the one man you looked up to, who was supposed to be invincible, with defeat and weakness in his eyes.

Even I had to be induced because I had the beginnings of Preeclampsia which is caused by high blood pressure. We could have died if I hadn't had my OB appointment that day. I could've had a seizure and my son & I could be dead. If that doesn't scare a person what will?

I want to be able to play tag, fly a kite, ride bikes, swim, any activity with my son. I want to watch him grow into a young man. I want to argue with him about music and curfews. I want to see him graduate from high school, college, grad school.......whatever! I want to be there when he falls in love and is brave enough to tell me about it. Heck, I want to be there for him today, tomorrow, and always.

My choices of going through with the pregnancy and raising him cannot have been made in vain. If I don't live to see him grow and properly raised him then what was the point? An example of how to lead a healthy life needs to be provided for him.

The Bambino deserves to live a happy and healthy life with his mama.

I want him to know his mama and I want to know him. I want him to grow up to view me as a strong role model. And as selfish as this post may seem with all of the I's and my's but that's how it has to be. The decision has to be for me first and then I can only hope that this new and healthy lifestyle that I choose will rub off on my son and enable me to be his mama for life.

I want to live.

I choose to live.

Note to Self: Sleep More & Eat Less

2009-08-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

In reading the MSN article Ally referenced, the '10 Reasons you are not losing weight,' I realized I am guilty of #1 (not getting enough sleep) and #4 (logging extra miles to compensate for bad diet).

I average 5 - 6 hours of sleep a night. This is due to a couple of things . . .

I tackle too many things in a day and never seem to be ready to call it quits when evening time hits.
Because I go-go-go, it takes me a while to wind down every night, and I usually have a tough time falling asleep. Sometimes I will lie in bed for 2 hours before I actually drift off... very frustrating.
I have started taking the bus, which means my booty needs to be out of bed by the ungodly hour of 5:15, at the latest, in order to take Rodeo for an adequate morning juant, sit down to eat breakfast, shower, make myself pretty for work, and make it to the bus stop by 7:00 a.m. This has been a challenge, to say the least. Family and past roommates will vouch for the fact that I am a 8:00 riser. Its still dark at 5:15 for crying out loud!! BUT, I literally save $5/day by riding the bus, so this early wake up call is totally worth it.

Secondly, I guilty of thoughtless snacking. I have no problem adding more activity to my day, however, I do have a problem with eating. For the most part, I eat very healthy. Lots of salmon, halibut, cod, and sea bass (thank you Dad for catching all these yummy fishies!) with chicken and other seafood thrown in. I rarely eat red meat any more, and when I do, its usually a lean cut like sirloin (this is also cheaper! Yay!). From my years in the restaurant industry, I love pretty food. I know it sounds weird, but we would always say that "people eat with their eyes." This means food should not only taste good, but also look appealing, and for me that means lots o' colors. I cook with spinach, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and green beans at least once a day. I like bright colorful food. My main meals are healthful... but it is the snacking and the sweets that get me off track. That is why I have found sparkpeople.com so helpful - they add up what you consume, and there is no way to avoid it.

And, a recipe for you all...

This is one of my favorite dinners - I have had this two nights in a row -
Delish! Its my own healthy take on a traditionally butter-rich dish. Super
colorful!
Halibut Piccatta with Fresh Veggies

1 Halibut fillet
1 cup green beans
1 large tomato
1 lemon
2 tbsp capers
2 tbsp Olive Oil
~ Start by slicing the tomato into thick (approx 1") slices. Spray cookie sheet and arrange tomatoes on sheet. Brush with Olive Oil, and season with salt and pepper. Cook about 7 minutes at 350 degrees. The tomatoes will still be firm.
~ Boil water (the green beans should steam for about 7 minutes)
~ Heat olive oil over medium heat in pan. Cook halibut 2 minutes per side.
~ Squeeze juice of 1 lemon over halibut in pan. Add capers to pan. Let cook together for 3 - 4 minutes with the halibut.
~ Arrange tomato slices on plate, place green beans on top of them, then place halibut fillet on green beans. Drizzle remaining juice and capers over the halibut and vegetables.
VOILA! You have a healthy fun meal in less than 15 minutes! Try it tonight!

Soaking Starfish

2009-08-11T20:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know if anyone has been lucky enough to enjoy the record dry spell we had here in the Seattle area, but its been an amazing 45- ish days full of sunshine and 90 degree weather. While I love the warm weather, it is impossible to motivate myself to go for a run in the excessive heat, and as such, I am welcoming the return of the rainy Seattle I love with open arms. I went for run last night in the pouring rain, and enjoyed every minute of it! There is nothing better than being able to run comfortably in shorts and a sweatshirt. Rodeo wasn't too pleased with our running in the rain though, we both looked like we'd gone for a swim when we got back to the apartment. This was me after the run - so much rain!!

So, progress update... I have starting a running program and and racking up about 4 miles each evening after work. I biked to the grocery store on Saturday morning to do my grocery shopping (extremely hard - apparently, the people who claim "its like riding a bike" are GOOD at bike riding, and not terribly uncoordinated when pedaling like I am). Give me running any day of the week and I will be happy.

I have also discovered a very useful tool. Everyone always says food diaries are crucial. I, for one, have always had a difficult time with this, because its hard to find accurate calories values for numerous items. But, the theory is once you are writing down everything, you will be more aware of what you are putting in your body. And less likely to reach for that second helping, hopefully. Check out www.sparkpeople.com; you can register, create an account, and track your nutrition and fitness. I am loving it. It saves meals, so you can copy previous meals from day to day. This works great for me because I really like my routine (more on that in tomorrow's blog), and I like to have things planned out.

Below is my Nutrition Report from Monday. I think I did really well!

	Calories	Fat	Carbohydrates	Protein
MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 2009
BREAKFAST
Poached Egg, 2 large	147	10	1	13
Tomatoes, red, ripe, raw, year round average, 1 wedge (1/4 of medium tomato)	7	0	1	0
Beans, black, 0.5 cup	114	0	20	8
Onions, raw, 1 slice, thin	3	0	1	0
Regular Coffee, 3 cup (8 fl oz)	7	0	0	1
	278	11	23	21
LUNCH
	Calories	Fat	Carbohydrates	Protein
Romaine Lettuce (salad), 0.5 cup, shredded	4	0	1	0
Onions, raw, 1 slice, thin	3	0	1	0
Mushrooms, fresh, 1 medium	4	0	1	1
Cabbage, red, fresh, 0.25 cup, chopped	7	0	2	0
Edamame, Shelled, Frozen, 0.25 cup	50	2	5	4
Cucumber (peeled), 0.25 cup, sliced	4	0	1	0
Chicken Breast, no skin, 0.5 breast, bone and skin removed	130	1	0	27
Baby Carrots, raw, 4 medium	15	0	3	0
Hard Boiled Egg, 1 large	78	5	1	6
Annies balsamic viniagrette, 2 tbsp	100	10	3	0
	394	19	16	39
DINNER
	Calories	Fat	Carbohydrates	Protein
Halibut (fish), 4 oz	159	3	0	30
Green Beans (snap), 1 cup	34	0	8	2
Capers, canned, 1 tbsp, drained	2	0	0	0
Lemon Juice, 1 lemon yields	12	0	4	0
Frozen Fruit and Juice Bars, 1 bar (2.5 fl oz)	63	0	16	1
	270	4	28	34
SNACK
	Calories	Fat	Carbohydrates	Protein
Milky Way Candy Bar, 1 bar, fun size	76	3	13	1
Yogurt, Yoplait Light, Strawberry, 4 oz	67	0	13	3
	143	3	26	4
	1,084	36	92	99
	1360 - 1710	36 - 63	181 - 262	60 - 141

10 Reasons You're Not Losing That Weight

2009-08-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

To read the full article on MSN.com please click here.

Mine are numbers 8, 9, and 10. I also need to cut out the sodium that's in my diet from eating the canned soups, local Hawaiian foods like kahlua pig, chicken long rice, musubi, spam, and well I ate the last of popsicles last night so that's out of the picture too. I love to drink lots of juice and eat popsicles. Sugar. Sugar. Suuuuuuuuuuuuugar!!!! I'm sure that I'm on the verge of diabetes with all the sugar and overweight-ness. Oh and rice. Hawaiians love that shit. I need to cut out the white rice and not eat carbohydrates after 5:00 pm and just eat protein rich foods like fish and spinach! I love salmon and spinach.

Tropical Storm Felicia is supposed to hit tonight and our office is closed for the day so I plan on cleaning, jogging with the Bambino and hanging out with my cousin Joanna who's visiting from Berkley. I now owe her 3 visits since she's visited me in Boston, Seattle, and here in Hawai'i. Anyway, I need to get all of that done before the evening, so wish me luck!

What are your reasons you're not shedding the pounds?

Weekend Slackerdom

2009-08-10T12:07:00.000-07:00

So the only "workout" I got this weekend was from walking around Kahala Mall (lame-o mall for all the awesomeness that I've heard about it, Ala Moana is much better if you want to get into the whoe mall talk) for two hours with the Bambino while I waited for my brother and his ladyfriend finish their movie and doing housework which made me sweat like I was in a freakin' sauna. Actually, the house sometimes feels like one when it's really hot out.

To sum it up - I didn't do much in the working out department. So that means I need to start ALL over again with the 30mins/30days jazz OR at least get 4 days of working out during the week. It's much easier to get my fit on during the weeknights than the weekends for some reason. Probably because I have it ingrained in my head that the weekends are for spending with family, or cleaning, weeding or catching up on something else than exercise.

Which brings me to my need to plan things. I seriously need to utilize my calender and get my life a bit more organized. Maybe then I can get my sh-- together.

I did ok in the eating department...on Saturday but not so much yesterday. Saturday I had some fruit for breakfast and well nope nevermind...I had chili for dinner. I skipped lunch because I was at the stupid mall for two hours and there is no way in heck that I'm eating mall food. Yesterday I had some fruit and bagels for breakfast. Then for lunch I had some rice, eggs, and SPAM!!! That's right SPAM!

I'm going to weight loss hell.

Then for dinner I had some curry and rice. The curry wouldn't have been too bad except that it was made with pork and the pork was waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too salty to be mixed with curry. My poor uncle - he's usually an awesome cook but this curry business was not his best. Though I'm thankful that he did cook something. Anyway, I paid for the saltiness this morning with hefty luggage under my eyes and my feet barely fitting into my yellow flats this morning.

So for this morning, I've had an orange, a cup of java and I'm chugging water like there's no tomorrow. In fact, I have to use the ladies room now because I've had so much water.

Someone needs to put my in the naughty weight loss corner.

Let's see how bad Hurricane Felicia/tropical storm/depression is this evening. I might just have to do some jumping jacks and do other inside workouts this evening.

Ok time to put on my dunce cap for not getting my fit on this weekend.

Running away from it all

2009-08-07T17:26:00.000-07:00

Its been one of those absolutely crazy days at work - the kind where you don't even know your own name, and you have no idea what your next step is, but you just can't stop moving, because then the 50 balls you are juggling will crash to the floor. Everyone has pulled me in a million little directions...

I think that the only way to slow my brain down is to try to let my body catch up, or at least get them in sync. Time to put to lace up the sneakers and hit the pavement. I need to buy some eggs and tomatoes, so I am thinking I will grab Rodeo, put on the booty-shaking mix, run the two miles to Safeway, shop and then walk back. Sounds like a plan. Maybe then I will be able to sit still. Wish me luck!

Starfish on the Verge of Purge

2009-08-06T22:29:00.000-07:00

An e-mail I sent to the Spunky Starfish on my 30 minute workout this evening:

Megan,

How'd you do tonight? I just got back from jogging with the Bambino. 2 miles of jogging 5 minutes, walking 1 minute intervals with lunging up the hill and sprinting the last 100 yrds.

I'm. Going. To. RALPH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm so glad we're doing this.

I love you!

My lesson is that I need to pace myself a bit better and not begin full throttle.

Seriously, I think the only thing that's going to save me is a sugar free popsicle. My freezer beckons.

~Ally

Slacker Starfish

2009-08-06T17:50:00.001-07:00

I've slacked the past two days on the 30 mins for 30 days jazz.

My reason below:

I'M A LAZY ASS STARFISH WHO WOULD RATHER WATCH GILMORE GIRLS THAN GET HER HEALTH ON!!!!

I should get a ruler smack on the wrist for that and placed on a treadmill with a dunce cap while I sing Weird Al Yankovic's special rendition: "Eat it," and Kirsti Alley spits our her meatball sub in my face because she's laughing at how I'll end up like her for the rest of my life.

Not a good visualization - must get my ass out on the cement with the Bamino in the jogging stroller tonight.

No more lazy ass Starfishes!!!!

Someone seriously put a picture of what I would look like with wrinkles at this weight the next time I decide to put on the Gilmore Girls instead of my sneakers.

~Ally

Project: Get It Together

2009-08-06T08:30:00.000-07:00

I am the second part of this dynamic Starfish duo - aka, the Spunky Starfish. My super fantastic partner in crime, the Restless Starfish, came up with the great idea to start a blog together so we could keep each other focused and driven on one of our main goals -- drop the extra poundage. Plus, we thought it would be fun to inspire a bit of healthy competition between us gals -- though in this game, everyone's a winner and the only thing lost is unwanted weight.

I feel as though I have fallen into this "treading water" phase of my life. I recently (well, if you consider 10 months ago recent) moved from Spokane to embark on a new chapter in my life. I left my job as the manager of a hoppin' restaurant and lakeside resort to have a more grown up job. While I adore my new job and it keeps me on my toes mentally and figuratively, it doesn't keep me on my toes literally. I try to walk my marina at least once a day to check things out, but my phone rings constantly, and between meetings and planning our events, I sometimes don't leave my desk chair all day. This is a huge difference from the restaurant, where I was on my feet twelve to fifteen hours a day. I wore a pedometer one busy Friday night and had walked almost 9 miles in a 4 hour dinner shift. Needless to say, my body is feeling this change - please see the pictures below for proof of this. I would also like to note that I was hardpressed to find a photo of myself when I was not drinking, which made me realize that perhaps its more than the lack of activity that is contributing to the excess around my middle. More on that after the photos....

Yeesh. No comments are really needed. I had to lead off with my starfish photo, only as it is so fitting. This was in March of April of this year. Hello spare tire!

This is my most un-awesome photo of myself. I feel like I look "thick," which is terrible. The second chin, hefty arms and just the general width of my body. But hey, I look happy!

I cropped everyone else out this next photo... only because a booty shot was needed... BAM! BOOTY!

Oh... and arm fat. Yuck.

So here's the dealio yo. The outline. The plan. Drumroll please....

MY GOAL...

One of my main goals for this blog is to inspire and be inspired to get healthy. I also think that support and encouragement from people will help keep me on the right track. In a nutshell, I just want to get back on a healthy track. I am so rushed these days that I never stop to eat breakfast, and constantly make excuses about why I cannot work out. I want to start eating healthier, and fitting some exercise in everyday. I am already pretty active on the weekends, but I am going to start devoting an hour to walking my dog in the morning before I head to work, and also get him outside for a run a few days after work. I started a running plan in February and was up to 8 miles a day when I stoppped at the end of April. I am going to start running three evenings a week; starting slow, and working my way back to the 8 mile a day habit. I have debated joining a gym, but due to lack of funding, and a perfectly good four-legged running partner, this Starfish thinks her time is better suited outside and with the pup.
He's just so darned cute, he needs more of my time!

I also want to focus on menu planning, healthy foods and being a more organized, educated consumer. I find that I waste a lot of money on food that just gets thrown away because it goes bad before I eat it. The more organized I am, the better I will eat. This week, I grilled up some chicken and halibut, put together 4 salads in containers, and have had lunch ready to go in the fridge all week. I'd like to keep this up - its been great these last three days! I am hoping that embarking on this healthier lifestyle will lead me to my end goal of dropping 70 pounds. From 230 pounds to 160 pounds. Yowza. For a short term goal, I would like to lose 15 pounds before I venture to Southern California at the end of September to visit my little sista in the land of silicone and sunshine - Los Angeles. I figure that is almost 2 months from now, so 2 pounds/week is realistic if I stick to my plan.

A FEW CHALLENGES I KNOW I WILL FACE...

Bad snacky food at work. This is my biggest pitfall. Not only do I sit on my ass, but I sit on my ass with junk food. Ugh. My office keeps Peanut M & M's and choco chip cookies on hand! Can you believe that?! It is so wrong, I have no will power. I need to start bringing carrots or snpa peas to work with me so have a healthy alternative for when the munchies hit.
The drinks. I will be the first to day it, I love alcohol. Wine, beer, martinis... the whole bar is my friend. And yet, not so much. After a drink or two, I lose all resolve to eat healthy, and suddenly pizza and hot wings sound like a great idea. In reality, bad news bears. Bad. So, in an effort to not only save calories, but a little moola as well, there will be no alcoholic beverages consumed Sunday through Thursday. I am not going to give up a Friday martini, but I can definitely cut back. I hope.
Money. I am living on a budget, and healthy food is not cheap. This is where the menu planning will come in handy.
Friends. I know this seems weird, but I love my friends, and as such, I will drop almost everything to hang out with them. I will cancel workouts, stay out too late, and get myself off the right track. So (this will save $$ too I hope!), I am putting myself first from here on out. I need to not go out as much, in order to get to bed at a decent hour, and be able to get up and work out in the morning. Lame, I know, but sacrifices need to be made. And, similar to drinking, weekends are still game.
Time. I love me my sleep. Getting up at 5:00 am to walk/run with Rodeo before work is going to be the hardest part. I can always justify more sleep. Really, I just need to manage my time better, so that when 10:00 pm rolls around, I have my stuff done so I can hit the hay.
My Mind. Similar to Ally, I am my own worst enemy. I make excuses for myself. This needs to stop. There is no excuse as to why I cannot take Rodeo for an hour walk every morning and every evening. This needs to be my new mantra. I know I will love getting outside more myself.

Well, that's it for my first update. I am just getting ready to head home from work. I have some Sea Bass marinating in a blackberry, chipotle, lime sauce that I will grill and have on a salad tonight, and then I am going to take Rodeo for a hike up the hill behind our apartment. Should be a pleasant evening.

Also, I love to cook, and love to create new, tasty dishes, so I plan on sharing healthy, easy recipes that can be made in advance and make great lunches, along with tips I have found that work for me, and may work for you as well. Please feel free to offer advice, I love hearing about other people's experiences.

How do you think us Starfishes will fare on our plan?

p.s. Ally, I brought it! Sorry it took so long to get the blog up. I couldn't get a block of time to work on it. Argh!

Project: Shed the Baby Poundage

2009-08-02T22:32:00.000-07:00

I am the restless Starfish (aka Restless Mama) - I left home (Seattle) after college and haven't been back to live since but I am working towards gettin' back...ASAP! But before I can get home I need to do something very important:

LOSE THE BABY WEIGHT!

A few examples why: Can you see the belly bulge? Ick. There it is again, belly bulge, bloated arms, very round face. But hey my cousins and Aunty are lookin' good. ;o)
Bah-bam! Double chin! Lookin' good...lookin' REAL good.

To see more photos of me pre-baby/post-squeezing my son out of my hoo-ha and whining of what used to be please click here.

My Goal:

So my hope for this blog and project is that I will actually stop making excuses, stop stuffing my face, and get off my duff to shed the poundage. Why? Well I hate to get all boring but a) for myself - I need to be happier and healthier and b) for my son - I need to provide a healthy example of living that he will sustain throughout his life.

What's the plan? Since I don't really believe in dieting my plan is to incorporate exercise into my daily routine and eating less...though I already do eat less....except for when there's some kind of new food that I haven't tried before in the house. That's where I get into trouble. Anyway, the plan is to do at least 30 minutes worth of workout for 30 days straight to start off. Whether it's walking with my son after work or running and pushing him in the stroller or doing work outside, like gardening.

My ultimate goal is to sustain a healthy activity level; walking, running, jogging, swimming, mommy & baby exercises, hiking, etc. Go green and stay green (this also applies to my workouts - I will not join a gym so that I am not only saving money but I'm one less body using up unncessary energy; i.e. excessive use of electricity) by purchasing foods from my local famer's market and if I'm able - join a CSA. I'll still eat a few processed foods like chips and Top Ramen but my goal is to minimize the consuming of the processed. In the end I'm hoping these good habits will get me to my goal weight of 150 lbs. That's about 70 lbs from where I am now. I don't plan on losing it overnight, I'm very realistic about how long it will all take me but that is my goal. From 220 lbs to 150 lbs.

My short-term goal is to lose at least 10 lbs by my son's first birthday, September 20th.

My Challenges:

I am poor. I'm a single mom and I am poor. I made the silly decision of moving from Boston to Hawai'i (where I was born). Left a great (paying) job and came to a place where people get paid junk for what they do. Add that to the cost of living in Hawai'i and I'm pretty much screwed. It's hard to get by with what I get paid and be able to pay for everything that I need for myself and my son. So I'm only able to afford to pay for his childcare, diapers and other baby necessities, and pay for my gas and phone bill.
My uncle, who is the nicest person in the world, does the grocery shopping and as well-intentioned as he is...I miss being able to do the shopping on my own. I would buy produce galore! And always stocked up on the rice and pasta (awesome staples) and anything healthy (plus Top Ramen...I'm Hawaiian...we love that stuff)
When I moved to Hawai'i I was very excited to get caught up in the local fare; lau lau, kalua pig, chicken long rice, EVERYTHING! I went a little overboard. But I'm still having that problem. My uncle dj's a lot of parties so he'll usually bring back some leftover party food. That means some foods that I haven't tasted before. Which also means....MORE CELLULITE! I also have the "clean plate" syndrome. I seriously won't stop until all of the food is off of my plate - even if I'm too full.
By the time I get home from work all I want to do is hang out with my son and relax. This is stupid. This needs to change.
I have a desk job. That means I sit on my already fat ass and I flatten it. LAME! So I think walking during my lunches is in order and doing mini workouts during my breaks.
My mind - my main challenge. This is what I say to myself, "You've had a long day - rest and enjoy your time with the Bambino." or "I'm hungry, I need to eat now, which means I can't exercsie tonight." How ridiculous of thought processes are those?

That's my dealio.

For tonight - I shall bake some chicken with the rosemary in my garden, put it in a salad with some romaine lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, and celery. Before that the Bambino and I shall go for a nice yet athletic stroll around the neighborhood.

Think I will do it or come up with an excuse?

P.S. I will be sharing some recipes, ideas on how to eat healthy on a budget, and many many more. See ya tomorrow!

P.P.S Megan....BRING IT!

Coming soon to a scale near you

2009-07-23T18:44:00.001-07:00

Just two gals trying to get shed the poundage while trying to reconnect with our athletic and competitive roots.

Contact Us

2009-07-15T21:52:00.000-07:00

Do you have some questions or suggestions? Then e-mail us at projectgoalweight [at] gmail [dot] com

Blog Roll

2009-07-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

Other Folks Getting Their Health On
A Balanced Life LLC
A Hippy Chick
A New Beginning - Nikki's Weight Loss Journey
A Weight Lifted
Ahh! Me So Hongry!
Blogher - Fitness Topics
Losing it, Finding me
Losing Waist
Losing Weight in the City
Love Healthy Living
Love to Eat, Hate to Exercise
Making Skinny
Marathon Leap
The Angry Dieter
The Bikini Body Diet
The Clean Plate Club
The Diet Book
The Doctor Weighs In
The Fat Nutrionist
The Fit Shack
Yum Yucky

Gluten - Free Blogs and Other Healthy Living Sites

The Daily Dietribe

Progress

2009-07-15T21:49:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check in here for our Weekly Wednesday Weigh Ins! Neither of us condones obsessing about the numbers on the scale and weighing yourself EVERY day - we're all about the getting fit part of this adventure. BUT... our end goal is to drop the poundage. And as such, we have decided that weekly weigh in's will keep us focused. Plus, you can can see our losses (YAY!) or our gains (Boo!) and help push us to be better! Hopefully we can start posting pictures of us as we shrink!

Megan ~ Starting Weight ~ 236

11/13/2010: (-8) 228/236
1/20/2010: (-0) 228/236
1/27/2010: (+1) 229/236
2/10/10: (+1) 230/236
3/3/10: (-8) 222/236
3/10/10: (-2) 220/236
3/17/10: (-2) 218/236
3/24/10: (0) 218/236
5/05/10: (+2) 220/236
5/12/10 (-6) 214/236 = 22 lbs LOST!

Ally ~ Starting Weight ~ 220

1/13/2010 ~ 220 ~ 0 pounds lost
1/20/2010 ~ 218 ~ 2 pounds lost

About Us

2009-07-15T21:48:00.000-07:00

We're two best friends trying to encourage each other to get our health on.

Hello! We are Ally and Megs, Megs and Ally. Known to many as crazy, spunky gals with a zest for life and adventure. Also, we've been friends for, gosh, I can't even tell you how long. Since high school, since before it was cool to layer your clothes (Ally started that trend, by the way)... anyhoo, you get the point - we go together like Cheese and Crackers, Turner and Hooch, Bonnie and Clyde.... Last fall, we teamed up to start a blog in which we detail more information than people probably want to know about oursevles online. About lots of things. There is something so cathartic about putting it all out there. But, at its core, the Starfish Project centers on weight loss. And self improvement. But, you know, not in a cheesy way. More like, this is our life, and yes, at times it sucks, but its what we've got and we're doing our best to muddle through it alive and healthy. To put it simply, we are two best friends trying to encourage each other to get our health on. We deal with the highs and the lows like any other gals in our mid 20's and bordering on a quarterlife crisis. We turn to the support of friends and family. What better way to increase our support than blog about our ventures... hence, the birth of the Starfish Project.

A bit about Ally, by Ally:
Hello! My name is Ally and I make up half of the awesome duo of The Starfish Project. My little toddler man who I affectionately call, the Bambino, and I reside in Hawai'i. I've been big boned all my life, that's just how we Hawaiians roll. Growing up I played soccer, did one year of track and played in the woods behind my house (until they tore it down and built cookie cutter houses but that's a whole other blog). So I was a fit gal. Then I went to college and gained the freshman 15+. I went back and forth on my weight throughout college until I left Norway. Before I left for Norway I weighed 200 lbs. Living in Norway was one of the best things for me because Norwegians live a very active lifestyle and the place I lived was made for walking. I walked everywhere and ate healthy. So I lost 40 lbs coming back to the states weighing 160 lbs. Sah-weet! Fast forward a couple years later and I'm knocked up. I gained a good 40 lbs from my pregnancy. Oi vey! I lost 20 after I gave birth and breastfed. But then......

Then I packed up the Bambino and moved us out here to Hawai'i. Land of ono (Hawaiian for good) food. A place where eating every second of your life is a requirement. Anyway, suffice it to say, I stopped breastfeeding but kept eating like I was, exercised but kept eating more and more food making me get all the way to 220 lbs, my current weight. So here I am now. Wanting to get back to at least 150 lbs within a year. Let's see if I can do it.

Please cheer me on!

The scoop on Megs.....

Hey All! I'm Megan, aka Megs, and I am the other Starfish. I live in beautiful Woodinville, WA with my little doglet, Rodeo. I feel as though I have struggled with my weight since I was old enough to know that being heavy is a bad thing. I felt always felt like I would be perfect if I just lost a little bit of weight. In high school it was 10 pounds, and gradually it became more and more... now I am looking to drop 70 pounds. I have always been active, but even at my slimmest (160 pounds), my tummy has never been flat. Through high school I spent 3 -4 hours a day on the basketball court, and rode horses a few times a week. Staying in shape was never really an issue, I was always able to go for a run, and never felt unfit. Fast forward to college, where I stopped playing ball daily, started eating crap food and sitting on my ass studying for 5 hours a day. Its like the perfect environment for fat to grow.

Similar to Ally, I yo-yo'd back and forth with my weight all throughout college. When Ally visited from Norway one summer, I weighed 185 pounds, and had dropped 30 pounds that since the spring. I felt great. Since then, I have slowly but surely piled it all back on, growing to my current weigh of (yeesh!) 236. Added to that, I sit behind a desk 8 hours of the day, where I used to run a round a restaurant 12 hours a day, and you can understand the results. But, alas, there is no excuse. So, now I am back on track, and trying to stay that way. I coach a little girls basketball team, ride horses 3 nights a week, and hit the gym prior to the 8 hour stint at my desk. I will weigh 160 pounds by Christmas of next year. I will be wearing a cute little bikini on the beach in Mexico. It can be done.

So, that's our story. It's our Starfish Project. Project shed the poundage and get back in touch with us.

We appreciate you following our progress, and we love comments! There are lots of other women out there in same positions we are, so we want to hear your stories as well. We're all in this together.