I Am Stunned

So I have been MIA for a few days, well yesterday I posted but I didn't hang around to read blogs. This morning on the other hand was a different story. I learned that Liquid from Liquid Illusion had passed away on Christmas Eve. A very sad day for so many. Between her wonderful photos and her witty, yet sometimes snarky poems, I am not sure what I will miss the most. Rest in peace...

Afriad To Try or Afraid To Fail

A well-lived life is not for the timid. The world was never meant to be approached with extra caution and fear of making mistakes. Kids know that you have to jump in feet first and be willing to take some lumps on the head if you're going to have any fun. When did we stop trying new things? Why did we stop taking risks? In large part, we're afraid of messing up. We've settled into our comfort zones and don't want to look like a fool to ourselves or others. What's the price we pay for our pursuit of perfection? No growth, no sense of discovery, few real experiences. The sacrifice isn't worth it. Are there points in your life that you wish you could have back because you didn't pursue an idea or a new interest? Those chances are gone forever--but you'll have more in the future to take full advantage of. It's been said that most people don't learn much that's new past their 20s. That's an awful long time to stay stagnant. The only mistake you should be afraid to make is not trying.

Been A Few Days

I haven't been here in quite sometime, not to long but longer than I like. Things have been crazy with the holidays and now that they are almost over I have a little breathing room.

I am still on track with Weight Watcher's, although I did gain 2 pounds at this weigh in yesterday, I was a little disappointed but I guess that is how the human body works. This week shall be better! In my defense, it is hard to do this and go to someone elses house for Christmas dinner. My mother in law covers every veggie in butter...drives me crazy. Even before Weight Watcher's I couldn't stand it. This year she made carrots and then green beans with bacon. The veggies were fresh, so that was a plus but she killed them with the coating of butter.I like butter but geezz..that is a bit much. If I was a diet pill sucker taking Fentraphen I would probably double up the dose! I mean what else was I going to do? Rinse off the butter?!?!

But that day is behind me and now I am off to a fresh start!

Did I Get The Pay Off??

Yesterday was weigh in day and as great of a week that I had I still wondered if I would get the weight loss I was looking for. Usually I know before I weigh in but since I found out that the scale at home was very inaccurate from my first week at Weight Watcher's I decided to chuck it! Besides not having the scale at home helps me stay focused on the task. No room to cheat cause now I have no way to tell if I gained or lost. I also did go to the gym last week, not as much as I would have like to but I went 3 times. I had a few unexpected gifts to do for Christmas and that meant going into stores! I did it, I am now done and ready to focus on me!

So did going to the gym and Weight Watcher's pay off?? It most certainly did..I lost 6.4 lbs this week. That is the most I have ever lost in one week while doing Weight Watcher's. Usually it is 5 pounds and under, don't get me wrong, 5 lbs is nothing to look down out at but ,6.4 was an awesome number to see. (I feel like a Biggest Loser contestant!)

So for all of you fellow dieters, if you have tried dieting and not exercising, I would suggest doing both. It will make a world of difference!

Struggles

It amazes me how hard it is every when you try to change your eating patterns. Even though I know the routine, it still doesn't seem to be any easier than the time before. I know there is at least a week of feeling like I am suffering and being deprived of what I love, but I also know the rewards that come with following the Weight Watcher's plan correctly. The one thing I have this time that I haven't had in the past is the gym. Going to the gym gives me a great advantage this time. Besides the advantage, it also gives me extra points to use if I wish. The extra points come in handy this week! We had Sliders chicken wings on Sunday, chicken wings = high point usuage! Monday morning I got up and jumped on E-Tools to figure it all out and boy it was sure scary. I used daily points, all my weekly extra points and then some. Actually I was in the negative on the weekly points!!! Going to the gym has only helped put me back in the positive on the weekly, well when I get to the positive!

I guess I should do a little Christmas shopping..online that is! I love online shopping! I wasn't sure what to get my mom and my dad said she has been checking out this Hansgrohe faucet. A faucet for Christmas!? My dad is sure nuts but he said she wants and he pretty much makes sure she gets what she wants. I think he worries about how much longer she is going to be with him, she doesn't seem to get any better and he spoils her something rotten! It's cute though...

I Joined ....Again!

So my weight loss has been at a slight stand still lately so I decided that since the holidays are here and Christmas was right around the corner that I would join Weight Watcher's...again. I am not going to remind people of how many times I have joined, let's just say I am the poster child for quitting and rejoining. This time when I signed up I did the monthly pass, I hate nothing more than paying for something and then not taking advantage of the service. With the monthly pass the payments are taken out of my account and I have no reason for not going, the money is taken whether or not I go! I also learned that my scale is VERY wrong but in a good way! That sure made me feel better. Hopefully this time I can stick to it and make my goal. Speaking of goals, I was going to check out Persimmon trees but, I must get ready for the gym, they open in one hour!

Exercise At Home

Over the weekend, I pulled out one of my exercise videos to change things up a bit. My weight loss has stalled a bit and I figure that it could be due to the same old routine. One thing I can say is trying to exercise on wood flooring is not the most comfortable thing! I didn't do very much that's for sure and the exercise mat I had before we moved is MIA. I wonder if my husband tossed it in the trash, would not surprise me at all. Today it is my mission to go get another mat.

Today I also go for my second set of eye tests, I am a little nervous. Although my mom reassured me that cataracts are no big deal to take care of, I am still nervous. I think what I am really nervous about is the fact that I am only 32 years old and what else is going to happen. Right now, I have to deal with the problem at hand and not worry about what the future will hold. Work is not requiring a doctors note, it does not impact my job but at any point they could need me to do inspection and obviously I shouldn't be doing it. I feel as though they think I made it up. I have never been a story teller and to make up a lie like having cataracts is beyond me! Oh well, they shall receive a note.

Positive Steps

Sounds like positive moves are being made in the fight against breast cancer! My grandma had breast cancer several years ago; she had a mastectomy and has been cancer free since then. She actually just turned 80 in November! I love you Meme'...

Once again, I am up early on a Sunday morning surfing the net. What a boring life.. I was reading an announcement that Cryo-Cell has collaborated with the National Institute of Health to research whether or not there is a potential for treatment of breast cancer using stem cells collected from menstrual blood. As far as I am concerned it is a positive step, we all know that stem cells have been used for treating disease and why should breast cancer be an exception? I hope they find positive results as this could be the answer to a prayer that millions women and their families have been looking for. I know I certainly hope that one day some one out there discovers a cure for breast cancer. So I have included a copy of Cryo-Cell's announcement for your reading pleasure. I feel that it is important for people to know what strides are being made in the long fight against breast cancer.



There is exciting news in the world of breast cancer research as Cryo-Cell International Inc., America’s most established cord blood bank, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center have just announced a research partnership . Through this partnership they will conduct an exploratory study to determine if stem cells collected from menstrual blood can be used in the potential treatment of breast cancer. This study will include cutting-edge techniques making it possible to track stems cells in the body using magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)—a non-invasive method. Currently, non-invasive imaging for long term tracking of stem cells in the body do not yet exist, making this truly ground breaking research. The ability to use MRI to monitor the journey of menstrual blood stem cells in the body holds great promise in the utilization of menstrual stem cells in the future treatment of disease. Cryo-Cell’s research partnership with the NIH is a major step towards discovering potential breast cancer therapy.

With a commitment to superior service, Cryo-Cell is committed to serving the needs of parents, with highly trained child birth educators available for consultation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Cryo-Cell has successfully stored more than 160,000 cord blood samples.

Have a Cold?

Here are some tips to help you...

Always drink plenty fluids, a runny noses, coughing and sneezing can lead to dehydration. You will also want to take a nice hot shower, especially if you are extremely congested and you do not have a humidifier. The humidified air will help ease the congestion. Last but not least, get plenty of sleep.


Do not take antibiotics, they only wok against bacteria. Don't get yourself all stressed out. Having a cold is enough stress to your body and adding more could just make your cold and symptoms even worse. Oh one other thing, don't sweat out a cold - there is no truth in that idea...Just be sure you are comfortable and have everything you need to get through the bug..

Eyewear Savings

My job offer an eye wear Savings plan. basically I can get a discount a participating providers. I wasn't going to sign up for it but HR said for the the cost of $12.00 a year it is really worth getting. My insurance company offers a discount as well and I have always just used that. Apparently the company I work for will be looking for health insurance quotes in a couple of months. They suggested I get it as a buffer, in case the need to drop vision to lower costs...eeek! It doesn't really surprise me, the cost of every in going up dramatically and my job still cover a large portion of our health insurance. So I enrolled, 12 dollars doesn't really make or break anything. If I get a better discount through them then it was all worth it!

We Went To The Eye Doctor

Last night my son and I went to the eye doctor, I dread the eye doctor! My vision is poor to begin with and every year it never gets any better! My son he need glasses for the blackboard, well now they call it a whiteboard.

Me on the other hand, I feel like a train wreck!My vision has gotten worse, as I already figured out on my own but now there is something new. So I go over this huge list of noticable issues and at the end of all the tests, doctor asks me if #1, have you taken prescription steroids? Me: no, Doctor: #2 Are you being treated for asthma? Me: No and last but not least Doctor: Have you ever has severe head trauma? Me: Yes...So doc wants to know and I tell him. He was mortified as most people would be and I told him that I didn't write it on the paper because I didn't think it was necessary for him to know. He agreed that I had no reason to think he should know. I know I am pretty open with my life here at A Day In The Zone and at A Dose Of Nonsense but this part of my childhood would make most of you cringe as it did my doctor. All I will say is that I was abused as an infant and maybe one day I will post about it more.

So anyways, doc now knows why I have at a ripe age 32, I have cataracts! I gave a goofy look as I always related cataracts to old age, my great grandmother has them! He said that it is very unusual to see them in a person my age and that is why he asked me those questions. Now my routine eye exam has turned into a medical issue. We'll see, no pun intended..I go back Monday for more tests...Ugh...

Weight Loss Option

I is very obvious today that obesity has become a serious problem here in the United States. There are millions of people that are over weight for several different reason from food addiction's to medical issues. They say that the best and healthiest way to lose weight is through exercise and diet, but there are alternatives. I am going to tell you about one of these alternatives cause you all know how much I love to help you out.

If you are one of millions that struggle to lose weight, have you considered Lab Band surgery? Lap Band surgery is a less invasive way to control food intake. The surgeon will place what is called a gastric band around your upper stomach that will create a small pouch. This new smaller part of your stomach will control how much food you can consume. The idea behind this concept is to give you the feeling of being full longer. The opening from the small pouch to the larger part of your stomach helps decrease the amount of time food that has been consumed can move.

Are there risks?? Of course there are every surgery has risks and some of these risks can include band slippage, band erosion, port site pain or leakage. I don't want to scare you with all the risks so if you are interested in other potential risks check out the site on lap band Toronto. There is a frequently asked questions link that could help answer any of the questions that you may have before making a choice to see a doctor.

So I told you about some risks and I am sure you all want to hear about the advantages of adjustable gastric banding. As they say, keep the best for last! Advantages are of course, weight loss, unlike other surgeries it is reversible. Yes, you read that correctly, reversible. It is of course meant to be permanent but if there are issues then it can be removed and your stomach will be just like it was before. It is also less invasive; this surgery is performed laparoscopically which means less pain, no stitches or staple and you will heal much faster. Sound good so far? The biggest and most important one of all, it is safer! So how is it safer? There are fewer risks of complications, nutritional deficits and a lower mortality rate.

If you are interested in the lap band surgery it have added links for you to check it out for yourself. I am by no means an expert and this is a decision that obviously you will need to discuss with your doctor. Most surgeries have eligibility requirement and other factors that need to be determined and looked into. Like most of my posts this post was aimed at being informative and tell you a little about an option you may not have considered or possibly may not have known about. As most of you know, I myself struggle with weight issues and I just want to help as many people as I can. Do what is best for you and most importantly, do it for yourself. You will succeed much more if you do it for you and no one else.

Fruit Form

Do you eat your fruit or drink it? Me, I usually eat it only because my many years at Weight Watchers has taught me that fruit juice isn't always your friend. The amount of sugar in fruit drinks is way to high to even begin to be healthy and besides, you only really getting about 10% real juice out of that bottle! The truly better juices, well you still get high sugar and low fiber. Drop the glass and pick up some fruit.

I feel Grosssss

Thanksgiving has been over for about a week now and yet I feel gross....still!! How is that possible and just think there are still 2 more holidays to go..ugh. Today I have drunk a ton of water hoping to get rid of tha nasty feeling but no such luck..Any ideas our there??

I am off to prepare some posts and I will check back later.

Ring Ring..Mystery Number

I hate it when that happens to me, the phone rings and a phone number shows up on the caller ID but it does not have a name. 9 times out of 10 if I don’t know the number or see a name I will not answer the phone. I found a site that you can look up phone numbers and it is www.nationwidephonelookup.com. The information you get from them is limited, you will get basics like city and state BUT you don’t get a name. If you want a name then you need to pay for a report. Me, I wouldn’t pay for a report but others might want more reliable information and are willing to pay..so check them out and see what you think..happy phone number hunting!

Burn More

Hypothetically speaking, you have received a couple of wedding invitations, thankfully these weddings aren't until the spring and summer of 2009. You want to look great cause all your old friends will be there. You need to lose weight, but you wonder how does it all work and what are my options. Just know you have plenty of time, as it is only December of 2008. No need to fret..

Burning more calories than you consume in order to lose weight.

One pound of fat is made up of roughly 3,500 extra calories. So in order to lose one pound of fat, you need to create a caloric deficit of 3,500 calories.

You can create a deficit of calories in three different ways:

1. Eat fewer calories than you burn each day. Keep in mind that your body burns calories all day long as part of your basal metabolic rate (BMR), because it takes energy (calories) for your body to perform basic functions that are necessary for life—breathing, digesting, circulating, thinking and more. On top of that, physical activity (bathing, walking, typing and exercising) uses even more calories each day.

If you eat 500 fewer calories each day for a week, you'll lose about one pound of fat
500 calories x 7 days = 3,500 calories.

2. Burn more calories than you consume by increasing your physical activity. If you eat enough calories to support your BMR, but exercise more, you'll create a caloric deficit simply by burning extra calories. This works only when you're not overeating to begin with.

Regardless of your BMR, if you exercised to burn an extra 500 calories each day, you'll lose about one pound of fat in a week.
500 calories x 7 days = 3,500 calories.

3. A combination of eating fewer calories and exercising to burn more calories. This is the most effective way to lose weight and keep it off. It's much easier to create a substantial calorie deficit when you combine dieting with exercise because you don't have to deprive yourself from food, and you don't have to exercise in crazy amounts.

If you cut just 200 calories a day from your diet and burned just 300 calories a day by exercising, you'd lose about one pound per week. Compare that to the other examples above—you're losing weight at about the same rate without making major changes to your diet or exercise routine. Some people hate to cut calories, while others hate to exercise, so a combination approach allows you to do more of whatever comes easier for you.

As long as you are consistent, your calorie deficit will "add up" over time, and you’ll slim down.
It's also important to note that although this math seems relatively simple, our bodies are very complicated and you might not always see the results you expect based on equations alone. Many other factors can affect your weight loss rate along the way.

Being Consistant

It is recommend that we exercise up to 90 minutes a days, most days of the week, of course if you lay dormant then you would want to gradually work your way up to that duration. A recent study found that participants who exercised for 20-30 minutes did so more consistently than those involved in 45-60 minute workout sessions. This study shows that you may be more likely to stick to a shorter workout than a longer one. I would have to agree with that, that is how I got started at the gym back in August. What is that saying? Oh, slow and steady wins the race!

If you and your family members are having trouble staying consistent with exercise, try a shorter workout session. Tell yourself that you'll exercise for 10 or 15 minutes, and follow through with it. Of course 10 minutes of exercise is better than totally skipping a workout. But, once you've hit that small goal, ask yourself if you could keep going. Besides I have faith that you could keep going. You may find that planning on a short workout is enough to get everyone to the gym (or park, trail, etc.), and once you're there, you can do a lot more than you thought.Besides, being on Hydroxycut hardcore isn't going to get the jiggle to go away.

Food and Thanksgiving

I trust that everyone has a awesome Thanksgiving? Mine was good, to much food but most of the time that is how it is anyways! So every year I try to take the approach that I will not eat too much and it never works, I am not sure if it is lack of will power or what, I think it could be all the good food that is around. My other down fall...sweets. I love cake, pie, brownies, simply anything sweet and tasty. The way I looked at it this year was that I was going to TRY not to go overboard but since I have been going to the gym I was not going to deprive myself either. Is it a good strategy? I do not know, but I sure sounds good! Now that Thanksgiving is over, I can go back to my normal course of eating and the gym. The gym has really been better than any diet I have ever tried, I guess I will never have to worry about trying things like Orovo. I have found my weight loss secret!

Brown Bagging It?

It's Sunday night and you're once again rummaging through a cluttered refrigerator looking for something appetizing to pack in tomorrow's work and school lunches. Or worse, it's Monday morning, and you're grabbing whatever you can find--often predictable and boring, and not necessarily nutritious.

If this sounds like you, perk up! With just a bit of planning, you can pack a lunch with both nutrition and pizzazz. Try these tips to make your family's lunches-to-go filling and fun:

Pick a variety of foods. Include items with fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and crackers. Try to incorporate foods from at least three of the four major food groups: dairy, protein, fruits and vegetables, and bread and grains.

Choose healthier alternatives as much as possible. Go for less processed foods, which are lower in sodium, fat, and sugar. For example, a fresh apple is better than apple juice or apple pie; a turkey sandwich is leaner than a high-fat, bologna sandwich. When choosing chips or other salty snacks, select baked rather than fried.

Pamper your taste buds. If the thought of plain produce makes you cringe, try pairing raw vegetables or fresh fruits with yogurt or low-fat ranch dip, cream cheese, or peanut butter. Follow these tips and you will never have to worry about wanting to use discount diet pills.

Nahh,

In a previous post I was talking about a rewarding myself for doing such a great job with diet and exercise. My husband said I should go get myself a pair of Uggs and I joked about him being cheap. Well how about a pair of Manolo Blahnik shoes? I wonder what he would say about me getting a pair of those?? Well lucky for him I don't see a pair I like and the price tag is not what I would spend either. I guess I will have to keep looking for the great reward. I know I will figure it out eventually, maybe after the holidays are over. Speaking of holidays, what are you doing this Thanksgiving? Me, well as far as I know it will be quiet, my father in law is coming over. As for the rest of mu husbands family, who knows. We don't really have much to say to each other. Heck, my mother in law can't even call my house, she has to call my husband in his cell phone all the time.

Ok, I Lied

I said last week I wasn't going to watch The Biggest Loser, but, I did. I don't know why but I did. My friend Cliff described the show perfectly and with only 2 words "Soap Opera". Damn straight this season is a soap opera.

I have never hated anyone on the Biggest Loser nor I have never seen anything or anyone like Vicky. The Biggest Loser people should have done some more tests on her before they allowed her to come on the show. I mean really, the show didn't need ratings (as far as I know, no) so why allow a person like her on the show? She is only there for the money and nothing else. So anyways, I was not happy that Amy C. decided to save Vicky. I don't care what the girl says, she saved her because she sent Brady home last week and wants to be back in Vicky's good graces. For me, Coleen was the one to keep, her weight loss is going to slow down seeing as she has lost a ton of weight and at least she is a nice girl. I couldn't live in the same house with a person like Vicky..yuck. Well Amy C. I hope you made the right choice but I have a feeling that you will need to start packing up your stuff up in shipping boxes cause Vicky is not going to save you when push comes to shove!

Super Foods

These foods benefit your body in so many ways. They power your brain, and correctly and efficiently fuel your body. Super foods fight infection, enhance your immune system, and protect against diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

These foods are not only healthy, but they're also affordable, familiar, and readily available at regular grocery stores and farmers markets. With so many choices, you'll discover just how easy it is to eat super healthy every day…even when on a tight budget.

This is an all-inclusive list, but some foods might not be right for your tastes, preferences or health goals. Remember that no single food can provide everything you need to be healthy. That's why it's important to choose a variety of super foods from each category to meet your daily nutrition needs.

Vegetables:
Asparagus
Avocados
Beets
Bell peppers
Broccoli
Brussels sprouts
Cabbage
Carrots
Cauliflower
Collard greens
Crimini mushrooms
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Garlic
Green beans
Kale
Mustard greens
Onions
Peas
Portobello mushrooms
Potatoes
Rainbow chard
Romaine lettuce
Shiitake mushrooms
Spinach
Summer squash
Sweet potatoes
Swiss chard
Tomatoes
Turnip greens
Winter squash
Yams

Calcium-Rich Foods:
Almond milk
Cheese, low fat
Cottage cheese, low fat
Milk, skim or 1%
Orange juice with calcium
Rice milk
Soy milk
Yogurt with active cultures, low fat

Fruits:
Apples
Apricots
Bananas
Black olives
Blackberries
Blueberries
Cantaloupe
Cherries
Cranberries
Figs
Grapefruit
Grapes
Honeydew melon
Kiwifruit
Lemons
Limes
Nectarines
Oranges
Papaya
Peaches
Pears
Pineapple
Plums
Prunes
Raisins
Raspberries
Strawberries
Watermelon

Grains:
Amaranth
Arborio rice
Barley
Brown rice
Buckwheat
Bulgur
Corn
Jasmine
Millet
Oats
Quinoa
Rye
Spelt
Triticale
Wheat berries
Whole grain breads, cereal, pasta
Whole wheat breads, cereal, pasta
Wild Rice


Proteins:
Almonds
Beef, lean
Black beans
Cashews
Chicken, skinless
Chickpeas
Egg whites
Eggs
Fish, unbreaded
Flaxseed
Garbanzo beans
Hemp seeds
Hummus
Kidney beans
Lima beans
Lentils
Miso
Navy beans
Nuts
Peanut butter, natural
Peanuts
Pinto beans
Pork, lean
Pumpkin seeds
Salmon, canned or fresh
Seafood, unbreaded
Sesame seeds
Soybeans
Sunflower seeds
Tahini
Tempeh
Tofu
Tuna, canned or fresh
Turkey, skinless
Veggie burgers
Walnuts
Wild game, skinless


Miscellaneous:
Canola oil
Dark chocolate
Green tea
Olive oil

Help Me Win...Please?!

So I have joined a contest and was hoping some of you would be willing to help me out. My goal is to get as many people as I can to signup for the shop and confess contest, where you can also win prizes. If you choose to help me out you just need to add my URL in the spot where it says URL, so before you leave my site to go and sign up, either right down my URL – www.adayinthezone.com – memorize it or copy and then paste it in that spot.
Why am I asking for your help? Well I can win a cash prize that would certainly help me out tremendously…see my son is going to the football championships and I would LUV to send him with some extra spending money. If you can’t ok just plan don’t want to help me, then that is fine too. For those of you who did sign up, THANK YOU SOOO MUCH!

Oh and ebilling.com is the sponsor of this contest. Ebilling.com offers a safe and easy way to pay for all your holiday shopping. So why you are there, check them out too and see if the can help you hide you oh so important finacial info while you do your holiday shopping. Don’t forget to sign up for the Shop and Confess contest and put my URL in the spot that asks for a URL.. www.adayinthezone.com

Don't forget to check out the video too...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WG7Zwju20_U


Sign up URL- http://www.shopandconfess.com/index.php/contest/member/register/

I Want To Ride My Bicycle...

Don't worry, I am not going to belt out the song! You would have to cover your ears anyhow to protect them from the awful shrieking!

Actually what made me think about it was, I was just reading this brief bio about a guy who wanted his own beach bicycle, so he bought a whole container of bikes from China and now the rest is history! Want one of your own cruiser bikes ? Then check out the website by clicking cruiser bikes, you can click either one actually.

Just so you all know, I haven't ridden a bike since I was about 12 years old. Well, not one that actually moves, I do ride the stationary one at the gym, although I am not a fan of it. The last time I rode a bike (I remember like it was yesterday) I was on my way home and I pulled in to the driveway, we had one of those driveways the started at one side of the house, went around the back of the house and dumped you back on the rode just on the other side of the house, if that makes any sense!? Ok, like a big U...Now back to my story.. I am coming around the house and my dog was outside, apparently very happy to see me. He ran right in front of me, I slammed on my brakes and went right over the handle bars. I smashed my head on the ground but I was ok. A little shaken, with a huge bump on my head and a few scratches on my face, I vowed to never ride a bike again... not even one of those beach cruiser bikes....

I like this one...blue..

Desk Dwellers

I found a good exercise for my fellow, including me desk dwellers. We may have to sit in one spot all day so let's make the best of it and get a little work out at the same time. Just try not to get noticed!

Seated Leg Extension & Pump

Starting Position
Begin seated in a chair, feet flat in front of you, palms grasping chair edge at sides or front.

Action
EXHALE: Keeping left foot planted and upper body still, extend the right leg (bending from the knee) until it is parallel with the floor. Hold here for 2 counts and then (optional) pulse up and down for 3 counts. INHALE: Bend knee to lower right leg back to floor to complete one rep. Complete all reps on one side and switch.

Special Instructions
Perform exercise very slowly and with control. Concentrate on flexing the leg muscles.

Muscles Worked: Quads

Time Involved: 3-4 minutes

Body Benefit: Strengthen your thighs anytime, anywhere!

Tuesday's Episode of The Biggest Loser

This will be my first post this season about The Biggest Loser, not because I haven't been watching it but because some of the people on the show this season just really piss me off. I try not to be hateful and I certainly don't want to bring that feeling here.

After watching Tuesdays show on my not so modern furniture, I actually said to my husband that I am not sure if I can continue to watch the rest of the season. Mind you, I have loved The Biggest Loser ever since its first season and I have been a faithful fan. I have never seen a group, you can't call them a group it is 2 couples as mean, vindictive and just down right nasty like I have seen of the ring leader Vicky, her follower husband Brady (I bet he is led around by his you know what) then you have Heba, who is defiantly the boss and her hubby Ed, who has the same personality as Brady. Quite honestly Vicky and Brady are the couple I hate the mos. They are only there for the money and her big fat mouth has no problems letting you know that. I wouldn't trust her as far as I could throw that (excuse me) that bitch. She is cruel and repulsive and I hope she goes home next week. I hate to say it but, being in it only for the money will get these two absolutely no where and I would place bets that one year after the show Vicky and Brady will be back to the plump overweight selves.. I have to commend Amy C. for following her heart, they would have picked her off first anyways.

I guess you can't kick people off the show for stating they are only there for the money but quite honestly if you aren't really there to help yourself then maybe you should just go home. There are plenty of other people who would have loved to have those two spots.

I Need New Eyewear

I always dread the eye doctor and as I normal I have procrastinated going to see him. I know, it is not the best this to blow off and I think I do it because every time I go it results in needing new glasses and contact lenses. I can't remember the last I have gone and was able to leave with no change, there is ALWAYS a change! How do I know there has been a change, it is all in the contact lenses..

I guess the other issue for me is the cost. Contacts run me about $300.00 and eyeglasses run me about another $250.00...sigh. I think I will try something different this year though. I have heard a lot about Zenni Opitcal and there low cost eyeglasses packages. Nothing wrong with at least checking them out! With so much going on and the need to save money maybe I will take a stab at it here, I usually only wear my glasses at home, so if the frames aren't quite what I am looking for, that is okay. Since the do have a huge selection of new arrivals I am sure it won't be to difficult, well at least one can only hope!

In this day and age I think it is a good idea to shop around. People are getting laid off, business are closing and with Zenni Optical offering such great deals on eyeglasses people might want to check them out. I haven't quite made up my mind yet but if you know someone who is on a tight budget why not suggest they check out this site.



http://clarkhoward.com/liveweb/shownotes/2007/06/27/12362/

To Reward or Not?

So I have been doing fairly well going to the gym. I have to admit that I haven't felt this good in a very long time! I have been mainly focusing on going to work out versus dieting. I know they go hand in hand, but it seems that dieting has not been my main priority! It is all good as far as I am concerned.

So my husband thinks that I should reward myself since I have managed to stick with it since August. Winter is coming and he suggested that I could go get a pair of Classic UGGs! I was shocked, where did his cheap side go?? What to do?? Ummm...I certainly don't need to spend all that money on a pair of boots when I have a child who could be off to Florida. Besides, it is not my style to spend money like that on one item. So my reward will be a new outfit and maybe a new pair of shoes, but most likely the money will be saved in case the boys to make it to Florida. It won't be cheap, that's for sure!

Who Are We? We Are the Colts! Who We Gonna Beat? Pomperaug!

and beat them they did. Not buy much but all it takes is one touchdown and a lot of determined young men!

WCPW Champions

Final Score

Now we are off to the State Championship game! It was all worth the 5 hours in the rain.

Strange Phone Numbers

RING RING, run to the phone....

Have you ever received a phone call and answer the phone only to get a recording or dead silence? I know I have and since they have come out with caller ID I don't answer any call when it is an unfamiliar number. Today at work, bored as usual and surfing the internet, I found this pretty neat site called www.reportphonenumbers.com . This site allows you to list the phone number and leave a comment about the caller. At www.reportphonenumbers.com you can also look up an unknown phone number to see id any other use has listed it already. So if you are trying to avoid someone or some company this might be the site for you. If it is a telemarketer you can inform the whole world or warn them who the mystery caller is. Check it out, maybe look up some of those unnown numbers that have showed up on your caller ID..

I know, completely off topic but, hey what can I do?? Not

10 Reasons To Take The Stairs

1..It is a free workout! Hey nothing is better than free.

#2..Burn TEN TIMES more calories that hoping a ride on the elevator.

#3.. Depending on the height of the building, the number of people in the car, it actually may be faster that the elevator.

#4..Improves heart health.

#5..Reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

#6..Helps you breathe better, be more fit and have a high aerobic capacity.

#7..Lowers your mortality risk.

#8..Boosts confidence.

#9..Increases your leg power and reduces the risk of injury.

#10..Relieves stress and tension.

So the next time you are face with the choice to take an elevator or the stairs, choose the stairs. Not only will you lose weight but you will also be on your way to becoming more physically fit. So the next time you go to the mall or to the multi level discount furniture store, skip the elevator and opt for the stairs.

Oh and by the way, 10 minutes of stair walking can burn 150 calories!

Fooled, Again

I am a big Internet surfer and when I ever came upon CAT6 I thought it had to do with some sort of medical device or test, something of the sort. Well I could not have been anymore off base than I was with this one. CAT6 was going to be something new and exciting to blog about here at A Day In The Zone...aaawww nope! CAT6 is actually electronic stuff, yup! Isn't it amazing how you can assume what something is by what it is called. So with that idea kicked to the curb I can tell you that they do have all types of thingys to hook up your home theater system! Jacks, panels, security, power, basically what ever you need!

Well now I am off to research some info that might fit well over here at this blog. Maybe Tree Man will come up in conversation again. Athough it was creepy to watch and still lingers in my mind, I really do feel for people who have such harsh diseases.

I Think I Have Been Scarred

Ok, so I am one of those die hard Discovery Health and TLC channel watchers. Not much bothers me when it comes to shows that have to do with facial deformities and different things of that nature. That is until last night...Last night I watched 2 hours of the Tree Man on TLC. This man had massive warts growing all over his body and his hands and feet looked like tree roots. Now I feel all out of sorts, I mean usually it doesn't bother me but I just can't shake the feeling of being really, well, grossed out. I know it is not his fault and maybe it is because it is warts, I don't know. I kinda wish I went and looked for that tv lift cabinet that my husbands want. I just feel creeped out and now I am kicking my self in the ass for watching not 1 hour but 2 hours of shows about this guy. I really do feel bad for him and they have been trying to help him, thank god.



Ir amazes me how brave people are and very brave at that because I would never be able to walk around with such a disorder like this. Now, I am going to go have a cigarette and try to get this out of my mind.

Candy

Oh my weakness...Halloween is my favorite time of the year and unfortunately I enjoy eating the candy too! This year I am going to try hard not to eat so much, seeing as the gym is really paying off! Really though it is soo hard to say no to the little chocolaty bars that I hand out every year..How could I deprive the children of such goodness? I know, contributing to their sugary addictions and possible acne problems is not good either, but after all, it is Halloween. Geez...snap out of it already!

So do you guys help fuel the childhood addictions to sugar on such an awesome night? Or are you they family that hands out other things such as little boxes of raisins, bags of pretzels or something else? Please do share with me what you give out for Halloween goodies. I am always open to hearing what kids refer to "that house" are giving out this year.

Tips For Staying Healthy

Food:

Be aware of what you eat: Know what you are eating

Balanced Diet: Choose a variety of foods from fruit, veggies, breads and cereals. Don't forget your meat!

Monitor Snaking: Cut back on snacks in between meals

Eating Away From Home: Choose low calorie foods; salad, fruit

Exercise:

Think More and Not Less For Success: Create activity to your daily routine and you could burn an extra 300 calories.

Continous Motion is Required for Endurance: Try to find ways to get 30 minutes of movement per day in 5 minute increments.

Resistance or Overload is Required For Maintenence: Look ofr ways to push, pull, lift and move things that will exercise the large muscles in your legs

I Need Lessons From Her!

***Dammit..the video isn't showing up!**
So I was checking out my email this morning and a friend of mine send me one of the joke type emails. The title, Husband got you angry ?, so of course I open the email and there is some text and a video. The text says"When your husband does something that makes you angry don't give in to the temptation to argue and fight. Just count to ten, remain calm and after he goes to bed, super-glue his flip flops to the floor."
Click the link below to see the video:

thisisfr.gif - Gmail

I just about fell off my chair! Who is this woman and where can I meet up with her for some lessons. I certainly hope those shoes were not those expensive Dansko shoes ! I love the creative type people and at times wish I was witty like that. I am the type of person that comes up with a snarky idea or comment hours after the argument is over!

Wake Up People!

So I guess I am on a small rampage this morning and really am at my breaking point. Go figure, it is 5:42 am and what could possibly be driving me to the brink? Well, alot! I guess I may have waited to long for my coffee, nah, maybe blog issues..YUP. Custom domains, BlogSpot and Google Aps are the culprits...

You know I have talked about diet pills a lot lately and I guess trying to find real stories from real people has been tough. All companies want people to purchase their product so they come up with all of these so called great reviews. Ever read a Hydroxycut review? Now try and find someone who has personally had a bad experience. Pretty tough, you can find a lot about the dangers of using this product but not much from real people. I guess since ephedra has been banned, thisngs have quieted down a little. So who is up for a trip to the gym or a stroll around your neighborhood? Come on people, are you proud to say you belong to the fattest nation on the earth?

Want Some Candy?

Hmmm..I always thought a Ju Ju Be was a type of candy. You know the ones, they sell them at the movies for an insane amount of money. They are the multi-colored candies that stick to your teeth like glue. Well, in this case, they aren't candies they are diaper bags! Who would have thought?

How was everyones weekend? Mine was ok..a little long but still managable. I cleaned out the basement. Looking at it you wouldn't know, but I know. One the crap is out of here it will look better. Otherwise besides my sons football game, it was pretty quiet.

Like a Ton of Bricks

Hmmm...how time flies when you get older. It just came to me now that Thanksgiving is right around the corner! I guess this year we will be at my father in laws house. So sad because my mom makes the best cornbread dressing you will ever have in your life....wondering if she could mail me some?!? I know, we need to get past Halloween first, I was going to decorate today but it is raining. For anyone trying to eat healthy like me, we are really screwed over the next few months. October = my anniversary..3 years on the 8th, then Halloween, then comes November and Thanksgiving, the December, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve, January = New Years Day...ugh food, food and more food. We will get through it, I promise!

8 Reasons Why Walking Is Good

#1 It is great for the heart
#2 Ladies, it cuts breast cancer risks
#3 It helps you sleep
#4 It cuts down on aches and pains
#5 Makes you happy
#6 Keeps you slimmer
#7 Keeps away senior moments
#8 Protects your bones

Are those 8 good reasons to go for a walk a few times a week?? I certainly thinks so! Now that fall is here go out and stroll through the parks or your neighborhood to enjoy the fall foliage. Forget that long, hard drive up north, enjoy the beauty and the fresh air in your own neck of the woods. If you feel you must drive up north, then find a park or a long road to walk down. Besides, after sitting in the car for a while you will defiantly need to stretch your body. So what are you waiting for, go to your closet, put on your walking shoes and go for a walk..sitting here isn't going to help you any!

Bigger Muscles

I have discussed diet pills before but I have never asked about or talked about bodybuilding supplements. Seeing as I don't know very much about them I decided to do a little reading. And like diet pills, there sure are a lot of bodybuilding supplements! I noticed that there were a lot of articles about Creatine and of all the supplements, is the safest. Don't get mad at me if I am wrong!
There were also plenty they claim you should stay away from as well. Such as HGH, Anabolic Steroids, Prohormones and GABA just to name a few.

What I really want to know is if you or someone you know have taken bodybuilding supplements. If so, did they work, any side effect, where they legal or illegal? What ever you want to share.

Florida-Have you been?

I have been to Florida once..and might never go back. Well, I would like to take my son on one of those Orlando vacations one day so I shouldn't say never! We stayed in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for a few days after out cruise in 2006. It was hot, even in February and it was smelly. My husband never smelt a thing, hell he can't even smell a skunk. Me on the other hand, I smell everything! Needless to say I wasn't very impressed. It just goes to show you that one person may love something and another will dislike it, even in Florida!

Well enough about Florida, I have a post to write up..more on topic with this blog!

Banks - What's the deal?

It is pretty scary to me what is going in with these banks. I often wonder if my money is safe, what will happen if I can't get to my money? What I find even stranger is the fact that my parents ban has been calling them and trying to convince them to invest their money. (They just sold there house a month ago and the made a decent profit) I wonder why and my mom is saying "No way Jose!" They are not the type to be risky with their money especially in these days, they have invested, but never anything like online trading or at least not that I know of. So she is feeling pressured by her bank and she finally demanded that they stop calling her. Isn't that harassment? She is so uncomfortable about it that she said she is considering changing banks and quite honestly, I think I would too!

The Junk I Get & Wise vs Worse

Geez, some of the junk mail I get is unbelievable! I get everything from "You have won!! to "Buy our horse supplements" Ummm thanks, but no thanks!


A couple of weeks, maybe a week, I did a Wise Choice vs Worse Choice post about junk food vending machines and today is the Fresh Food Machine. Ever look at that fresh food?? Some of it doesn't look so fresh. I'll fess up to buying something from it once and only once. I decided on a chicken sandwich of some sort and what I received in return was a case of the shits! (sorry) Needless to say, I would rather chew off my finger than get something from there again!

Back to my post..

Wise Choice: The salad! Was that such a surprise? Nooo. A baked potato that would be a pretty good choice too, but the salad with dressing on the side is the best.

Worst Choice: Any one of the sandwiches! Really, I'm serious. They are loaded with high fat spreads and white bread. White bread is junk carbs and those carbs are the ones that get stored as fat.

Get Off The Phone!

Last night I went to the gym and hoped on the elliptical machine. Usually I do cardio but decide that I was going to use the fat burners option instead. Difference, well the fat burning option my heart rate is no higher than 120 and the cardio my heart rate should be no higher than 150.

So I get on my machine no one to my left and a man to my right. The guy seemed a little distracted and I couldn't figure out why. He kept looking in my direction. So I continue along and then I realize what his issue is, the lady on his right is flappin her lips on her cellphone. Are you kidding me! Your at the gym, on a machine and your talking on your phone. I really felt sorry for the person she was talking to, I mean, I wouldn't want to listen to some chic huffing and puffing on the other end! Geez, isn't there a time and a place??

Are You A People Watcher?

If you know me then you know I am fairly laid back, if something plucks my nerve then I can be a bit snarky and if something pisses me off then I can have a very vulgar mouth. Don't let the picture fool you, I am not as sweet as I look!

What I am though, is a people watcher. I love to watch people and sometimes it is much better than TV. Unfortunately it does come off as staring sometimes which does get some looks and a lot of "Honey, cut it out!" from my husband. Why and I posting about it here and not at my Nonsense blog? Answer, it has to do with the gym!

When I go to the gym I usually hit the Elliptical machine. At my gym the cardio area is right in the front and it gives you the birds eye view of the whole gym. I don't tend to judge people, especially about their weight, as I have had weight issues since I got pregnant with my son 13 years ago. What I do do is try to figure out what people are about. Like there is one woman who is super skinny and when she works out she usually has on several layers of clothing. Why? To absorb more sweat, to make more sweat? Does she have self image issues? Possibly! Honestly, I couldn't wear all those layers without feeling like I want to die.

Then there is the women who comes in and get on the cardio machines with a hat on, not a baseball hat or a winter hat but a fancy hat that's paired with weight lifting gloves! What is that one about? I can't even begin to figure it out..let me know what you think!

Then you have your typical I need a date chic, who comes in with her hair all teased up and loads of makeup on. You can tell she is not there to get all hot and sweaty. Who wears all that make up to the gym? Honey, you are not at a dance club! If I wore all that make up, I would look like an abstract water color painting with the way I sweat!

Tune in next time for the men!

Top Diet Pills?

This is a list of what is supposed to be the top diet pills. As my post below stated, If diet pills really worked, we would all be skinny and my dear, if you are reading this and taking diet pills and you are, I am going to be frank, still fat, then there is a HUGE (no pun intended) chance you are wasting your money. With all the fitness centers around, you could actually join a gym and save yourself alot of money! The gym I go to just had a special going for new members to join and pay $10.00 a month.

There are two types of diet pills:

PRESCRIPTION: Available only through your doctor; closely regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); may cause side effects; often costly.

NON-PRESCRIPTION: (fat burners, stackers, herbal pills and sports supplements) Minimal FDA regulation, may be lacking in purity or quality; some are fairly new, definitive data is lacking; may cause side effects.

This list of best diet pills covers both prescription and non-prescription diet pills. It can be noted that the dangers diet pills carry with them are just as prevalent in prescription pills as in non-prescription.

PRESCRIPTION DIET PILLS
1. Phentermine. (Fastin, Ionamin, Adipex-P, generic versions) Appetite suppressant that affects neurotransmitters in the brain; appears on our list of best diet pills for short-term obesity management.

Pros: Approved and regulated by the FDA to promote weight loss.
Cons: Short-term use only; highly addictive.
Side effects: blurred vision, chest pain, breathing difficulties, headaches, decreased libido.

2. Xenical. (Orlistat) First drug in its class to be FDA approved (1999); blocks absorption of fat in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Pros: Gained a spot on our list of best diet pills for successfully preventing up to 30% fat from being stored by the body.
Cons: Despite effectiveness, also carries several dangers diet pills frequently exhibit. May block absorption of vital fat-soluble nutrients (Vitamins A, D, E, & K and beta carotene).
Side effects: bloating, diarrhea, oily stool. <------Yuck

3. Meridia. (Sibutramine) Enhances satiety by increasing the brain’s levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that signals a full stomach; brings several dangers diet pills can cause.

Pros: In studies, achieved 5-10% weight loss in one year.
Cons: Elevated blood pressure; not for people with heart disease or stroke history.
Side effects: nausea, insomnia, constipation, headache.

NON-PRESCRIPTION DIET PILLS
1. Hoodia Gordonii. Considered the top choice on our list of best diet pills, Hoodia Gordonii works safely without causing the dangers diet pills often bring with them; suppresses appetite by telling the brain that the stomach is full.

Pros: Suppresses appetite, increases metabolism, burns fat, increases energy.
Cons: Some Hoodia Gordonii products do not contain adequate levels of Hoodia to be beneficial.
Side Effects: None.

2. Chromium picolinate. Mineral thought to boost metabolism and stabilize blood sugar.

Pros: Some studies show benefit to diabetes patients.
Cons: Not proven for fat loss or muscle growth.

3. Conjugated Linoleic Acid. Believed to decrease the body’s deposit of fat.

Pros: May increase lean tissue, in turn raising metabolism.
Cons: May increase risk for diabetes; more data needed.

4. CoQ-10. Compound found in beans and spinach, changes food into energy.

Pros: On our list of best diet pills due to its anti-oxidant properties and claims of increasing energy.
Cons: Weight loss effectiveness not proven.

5. Fat Burners. (Hydroxycut, Zantrex, Leptoprin) Stimulates Central Nervous System for increased calorie burn, usually through Ephedra or Ma huang.

Pros: May burn a few calories per day.
Cons: Dangerous; may cause coma, seizures, heart attack.
Side Effects: jitters, sweating, diarrhea.

If you have tried any of these diet pills, please do share your results. Whether they are good or bad, I would love for you to share your experience.

Still Trying To Find The Magic Pill?

Who doesn't want to be fit with little or no effort? Well, as much as we'd all love to have one, there's no magic pill for weight loss. If all of the diet pills, shakes, and supplements that claim to work really did, everyone would be thin. And even then, we'd still maintain a steady diet of ice cream, chips, pizza, and candy. Let's not kid ourselves, people.

Successful weight loss still comes down to a simple formula. You have to burn more calories than you take in. Calories are a measure of the amount of energy provided by the food you eat — the more calories you eat, the more energy you are giving your body. If you give your body more energy than it can use — well, that's stored as fat.

Let's break it down. A pound of fat is equal to 3,500 calories. If you want to lose one pound in a week, you have to create a calorie deficit of 3,500 calories a week, or 500 calories a day. To lose two pounds in a week, you have to create a calorie deficit of 7,000 calories a week, or 1,000 calories a day, and so on. Get the idea?

There are two ways to create a calorie deficit — eat less and exercise. If you want to meet your weight-loss goals, start by comparing your calorie intake against your exercise expenditure. It's not a magic pill, but it's very simple. Find a way to cut and burn more calories and the weight will come off!

Water & Exercise

So yesterday was sort of a dull day. Zach and I went to the store to find the acne treatment he wanted. Well it is more of a face wash but at least he is now happy. Other than that I went to the gym for an hour and I read about the benefits of proper hydration during exercise.

I'll give you the short version!

You should drink 8-16 oz of water 2 hours before exercise to make sure you are properly hydrated and another4-8 oz right before you begin.

Drink 4-8 oz of water every 20 minutes while you are exercising. You need to make sure that you are replenishing the water that your body is sweating out.

After exercise you need to drink enough water to replace the fluids that you lost during your workout. Easy way to figure out how much water you will need is to weigh yourself before you exercise and again after. The for every pound you lost while doing your routine you will drink 2 cups of water.

Wise vs Worst Vending Machine #2

Do you have 2 different vending machines full of junk at your job?? Thank goodness we don't or I would be in a world of trouble!

Same as the post below..these are your choices..

• Oatmeal Cookies
• Jumbo Soft Pretzel
• Animal Crackers
• Soft/Chewy Candies
• Nut Rolls
• Taffy
• Onion Chips
• Pork Rinds
• Popcorn Cakes

Wise choice..you guessed it, the popcorn cakes. I personally wouldn't choose those, I find it hard to eat something that looks like it came out of a package. You know those popcorn foam peanuts!

Popcorn is always the best choice(I could eat that) and NO you can't drench it in butter! If you are like me and can't do the popcorn cakes then opt for the animal crackers instead.

Worse choice..The Pork Rinds! Really though what are pork rinds? I have never had them and really don't think I ever will. Something about them isn't quite right. Pork rinds have 600 calories and 40 grams of fat per 4 oz serving.....geez, now I really want to know what they are! Google here I come!

Wise vs Worst Vending Machine #1

It is 3 pm and you are sitting at your desk with the munchies so what are you to do? Wait it out and see if the craving goes away, go for a walk or hit the vending machines.

Ok so you chose to hit up the vending machine and here are your food choices:

• Potato Chips
• Nacho Chips
• Cheese Crackers
• Pretzels
• Candy Bars
• Cup Cakes (my weakness)
• Oreo Cookies
• Doughnuts
• Hard Candy
• Chewing Gum

So what do you choose?? Wise Choice or Worst Choice, kinda like the angel and devil.

Wise Choice: Pretzels, they are crunchy and low in fat and high in carbs. Carbs will give you the energy. If your machine has baked chips or nachos those to are good choices.

Worst Choice: Hmmm which one to pick is all you need to worry about. Doughnuts are high in calories, full of sugar. The candy bar really isn't a good choice either! 300 calories and 15 grams of fat..eeek!

Geez...How Much Noise

can one person make?? I am downstairs on the computer and my son is upstairs moving around coffee tables! Why in the world do you need to move the coffee tables at 7:48 in the morning? Sometime he makes more racket than necessary, some days it sounds like I have 3 teenagers instead of one. It amazes me everyday how fast he is growing up..still a little stubborn but much more willing to do what he needs to do without be badgered at on a regular basis. That is all I can ask for I guess.

Today I have a lot to do, my mother in law is coming over, ugh, I have to take pictured of my son and right now I think I need to go to the gym! I need to prepare myself for the mother in law visit! This will be the first time she has come over, literally, we moved in over the 4th of July weekend.

Movin along

Well, exercise has been a major part of my life lately. As things get harder and harder to tolerate at work, I find that I am doing more at the gym. That is a good thing, for the most part. I haven't really been dieting. More just trying to eat right and the food that isn't so good, just tryin to eat it in moderation and that is pretty hard to do! So as I sit here and prepare my self for another great day at work (rolling eyes) I am trying to find some unique baby gifts for my friend who is expecting. I have found a few things, but nothing that really makes feel like that is the one. Oh well, I will have to keep on my search, I have a couple of months still. Well, time for me to go grab that first cup of coffee of the day, and that is the best cup!

Acne - OH NO

My poor son has come into that age...PUBERTY!

His body has discover pimples and now he has me looking for acne cures. It is really not that bad but I can understand why he wouldn't want them. I have told him to make sure he washed his face with soap. Seems as though when he fails to wash his face, that is when the little suckers pop out! So I only hope he will continue to care enough about himself and help me help him! But I am a little curious about what the best acne products are..any tips. please feel free to post a comment and let me know! I could always use a tip!

What A Week

I am so glad the week is finally over! Besides that we have a 3 day weekend, even better.

Things have been good, I have been going to the gym every day for about 2 weeks now. I know I have been away for a while and this is certainly one of my positive updates. I have been doing many cardio but will start using the weights on Monday. I have never felt better and so far I haven't not wanted to go. I guess I just need to do something with myself and unfortunately sitting on my butt at home isn't going to work. Now if I could just get the diet thing under control, boy then I would be doin great! I guess I will try to focus on the exercising and eating right. Just make some good choices. Speaking of choices, it is that time of the year again! Time to do the auto insurance comparisons and see if it is worth the switch. I really dislike doing it but it must be done!

Many Changes

Light reading has been set aside! I love to read, but I love to blog as well! I guess I need to get this, well need to blog out of me before I run off and read. I actually have been thinkinh about a new template..what do you all think? I think it is time...I need something more, well, more fitting for this blog. I mean the clouds are cute but they certainly don't have any meaning for A Day In The Zone! I don't know, let me know what you think. I think I am going to email my most favorite template designer and she what she can come up with. Any thoughts or ideas that you have, please feel free to let me know. Out with the old - in with the new! Now I guess I can settle in and do my light reading, take the truck for an oil change at 9 am and I still need to check out the site about laughlin hotels . Talk to you all soon!

So...I am back

I certainly hope non of you have given up on yourselves. I haven't given up on me and even though I have not been here in a while you all have been in my thoughts. Now I am back and ready to discuss everything from weightloss to what ails you and have fun doing it. Right now though I need to find my eyeglasses so I can do some light reading for my first post in a long time!

So please tell me what you have all been up to? You can catch up with me over at www.shimmerp.blogspot.com - that is my "everyday life" blog. Life has been good and all my happenings over the last couple of months will be posted over there.

Involve Others

People perform better when others are on their side helping out. Even in everyday nutrition and fitness, people who involve others and ask for help get much better results and stick to their programs longer than people who try to go the distance on their own.

Having other people help out just makes weight loss a heckuva lot more fun. Especially for social exercisers, trying to lose weight and exercise alone can leave you bored out of your mind.


* Ask a friend to check with you once a week to see how you’re doing.
* Ask your significant other to be there when you need to unload.
* Ask a co-worker to keep you upbeat.
* Ask your kids to help you find active ways to have fun.
* Ask your brother-in-law to pass along inspirational reading and interesting health news.
* Ask your photographer sister to take "before" and "in-progress" pictures.


Remember asking for help doesn't not make you weak or a failure. There is not other way to blast the weight off than good old exercise. There are no magic pills, 5 minute exercise routines or special air tools that will do the job for you!

The Final Stretch

We are supposed to move this weekend and I am not so sure it will happen. My tag sale via Ebay is just about over, I still have more things I can get rid of but I don't want to get stuck in a jam. I pretty much got rid of all the stuff we didn't want except a table lamp and some small stuff. I will donate the rest to Goodwill or the Salvation Army. It went fairly well, I wish I could do it full time and not have to go to my lovely job!

I really am looking forward to this move, once I get settled in I will defiantly be back on track with weight loss. I have just let that get away. It was a stupid move on my part but I have managed to gain only a few pounds, less than 5 , so that is good! A new home and a fresh start will be good for me. There are a couple of other things I need to get rid of after this move but that will take time and more to come about it.

It's Slimy

It's hot and humid outside this morning. I wanted to hit the pavement for a walk but quickly changed my mind! I can't wait for it to break! I have been sitting here most of the morning, not really doing a thing. I read the news, checked my Ebay stuff and was looking at Akoya pearls
, I know, pretty boring morning. I also talked to my mom for a little while, she seems to be hanging in there. The business she works for is closing its doors and she is a little sad. The new owner took a 50 year old business and ran it into the ground. They put their house in the market yesterday, you can't have a mortgage and only one person working.

I really feel bad for them, they don't deserve to have all this happening to them. Hopefully it doesn't take to long to sell. Hopefully she can find another job, although it is hard to come by a 15.00 an hour or better up in Littleton New Hampshire!

I Had Better Get Them Now

My husband and I want to go on another cruise. We just haven't decided whether or not we are going to take the kids! I would like to but at the same time I also would not like to! Does that sound bad?? LOL

First things first, we each need a passport. In 2006 we didn't need one but I am pretty sure that we are going to need them now since all the laws and policies have changed since then. We don't need any drama trying to get on the boat. We haven't yet decided where we want to go, me personally, I would rather go to a resort. There is enough to do on a boat when you are out at sea but I would like to try something different. I hope my husband will be on the same wave length as me, he can be a baby when he doesn't get his way! LOL...I don't really want to hear him whine so a cruise it may be!

Dumb car..

The car doesn't know it yet but if it keeps doing stupid stuff I am going to take it apart and sell the car parts off of it! Oh well, we are moving soon and I will only be 3 miles from work. I guess I could drive the SUV again. Poor thing has been in the garage for about 3 weeks now.

Actually I should walk to work. God knows that Weight Watcher's flew out the window...again! There is just sooo much going on, Ebay, trying to blog and getting ready to move. UGH!

I Am A Slacker

I confess, I have been slacking here at A Day In The Zone. But I don't need to tell you guys that! Between Ebay, moving and my overbearing boss there just doesn't seem like there is enough time in a day. So I have decided that I must drop something from my daily list but what do I drop?? How about my boss..LOL, yeah right! No really, I am not going to drop anything. I just need to learn to manage my time a little better. I know, I have said it before, I will get back into blogging. Well I have been here 2 days in a row. That's a start!

Unfortunately I have to go and do a couple of things. I have to check up on my grandfather who fell down a flight of stairs in Paris..LOL. It's not funny, but if you knew my grandfather then you would understand. I hope my grandparents had some sort of travel health insurance. But I will be around later to update my outdated template!

Oh No Mom

So my son is at the age now where he is starting to get pimples. He is not very happy about that but as I told him some people get them some don't. So I have been on the look out for a natural acne treatment or something gentle on the skin. I have very sensitive skin and I tend to be overly cautious about what I buy. I don't want to use harsh chemicals on my face and certainly don't want that for my son either! Please let me know if you know of something. My skin is extremely dry and I very rarely get a pimple. I am really quite clueless about that kind of stuff, my concern is finding a good moisturizer!

We'll Make Do

I am so ready for a vacation and I would love to go some where nice. Summer is here and my actual vacation is in August. I think we are going to stick to day trips this year. Looking into anything else and especially something like North Padre Island rentals totally out of the question! Although maybe someday it could be possible, you never know.

I would much rather do day trips, that way I am in control of whet I eat and where! Nothing worse than going somewhere and having nothing but crap to eat. People may know you are trying to lose weight but they still seem to shove the crap in your face! I plan on being in control of what food I put in my mouth this year. So there!

So Like Everything Else

the grocery bill has gone up too. I was talking with my mom yesterday after I went grocery shopping and had to go back AGAIN for cat supplies! She told me that her and my dad have started a small garden. I think it is pretty cool but that just tells me how bad things are getting. My mom did get her full time job back, which I am sooo happy about but I think the idea that this guy's business will fold is still on the top of everyones head.

My parent's haven't had a garden since I was a kid! They did that so my mom could stay home with me and my brother and force us into child slave labor! Just kidding about the child slave labor. I never thought they would have another and especially a 50 some odd years old. Quite frankly though, you need to do what you need to do to survive and cut costs. I wish I had a spot for a garden!

Cookouts

It seems like every weekend a call comes in and someone is having a cookout. They are great social activities although I could take it or leave it but the certainly don't help the weight loss efforts. My husband and our friends could have cookouts everyday if you let them. There has to be a limit though as far as I am concerned! 2 or 3 times a week and 3 times is pushing it. I can only eat so much salad and fruit myself. I do eat the meat but when your only option is hot dogs and hamburgers from a box, well let's just say that it gets old pretty quick! I guess it is the fun of summer!

I want one!!

I want one of those shower chairs !! Not because I need it, but because some times I stand in the shower wasting water after I am done doing what I need to do. YES, I am guilty of that, I just don't liked to be rushed on some days. Like today, I was late for work, because I goofed off on EBAY longer than I should have, got in the shower late and stood there to long. Then I got ready for work, packed up my lunch (that takes a long time too). I did this all as if I had plenty of time to spare! I actually had none.

You know what it is, I just can't stand going to work anymore!

Have You Heard Of This..

The this I am referring to is called Orovo. I personally thought it was some kind of vacuum cleaner or machine of some sort. Apparently not, Orovo is actually another, yes another, weight loss aid. It comes in the form of a pill and apparently you can make money selling it at the same time. From the looks of it they sell more than diet pills but quite honestly, it is not the type of business I want to get involved with. I don't think I could sell something that could potentially hurt someone. Besides is the old fashion way of losing weight the best way??



With that said, if it sounds interesting to you go ahead and check it out.

Wow, I forgot!

It has been awhile since I have been here! I forgot my user name and password.

Things have been a little tough at home and just when you think things are settling down, there is more drama unfolding! I have been reading some weight loss books lately for more tips and ideas. Weight loss has been slow going, but at the same time I haven't put much effort in either! My son has had some problems, we are looking to move and I have been trying to get an EBAY business going. I am still walking at work, that maybe what is saving me from gaining!

Well it is time for me to go to work, my real job that is! Hurray, yeah right! I think I have come up with the best schedule for complteing the things I love. Blog in the morning and handle EBAY in the evening!

Serves Her Right

So I guess my sister in law didn't get to use the "I will go to drug rehab" card. She has used it several times before and I guess they are just tired of hearing it. I don't knoe the details, but I was told she wasnt going to be able to go with that!

I feel bad for their kids, my niece is really confused and my brother and his girlfriend are trying to support her mentally. Soon the divorce will go through and I am sure there will be more drama with that! Man, I hope everything works out ok.

Still Here

I am still here! There has been a lot going on at home with my son. For 2 weeks it has been non stop drama and I think it is finally settling down! It is very hard to keep focused on things when he is having drama. At times I wish my brain was like computer memory just delete and free up space. Unfortunately it doesn't work that way. That would be to easy!

I will be back tomorrow with regular posts and blog visits. I hope everyone is well, Happy Mothers Day to all you moms out there and I hope you have a great day! See you all tomorrow, I need to go and call my mom now.

A Walk At Dusk

So I went for walk last night with my husband, it was a nice stroll, nothing intense. We didn't go walking for exercise, more just to get out of the house. Some of you may know that the Yankees were not on tv, so my husband had no reason to sit on the couch and swear at the television. That poor tv, if it had ears it would either have a real complex or it would get up and whip him with the cord! (Yes, I have quite the imagination at time!)

So we decided that after the school year is over we are going to move and I couldn't be more thrilled! The hunt is on, new home, new town and hopefully a nice quiet neighborhood where I don't have to listen to the rap crap booming in cars at all hours of the night. My landlord was a little deceptive when we looked at this apartment. He told us it was a nice neighborhood, it was quiet and that turned out to be anything but the truth. Obviously it has been a long time sice he slept over here! Our neighbors have people over at 2 am with loud systems and yes they have no respect for others and they blast them. Granted, they may not have to work all day, buy we do. Besides that, they light up the street there are so many of them. My thoughts, shut off your freakin music and turn off the led tail lights. Didn't your parents teach you to have respect for others??

Ok rant over, I certainly can't wait to get the F* outta here!

Walking, Music and Great Deals

We all know exercise is good for us and whether you are trying to lose weight or you just want to be fit. I know many people who are thin and don't exercise, that surely doesn't mean they are fit though. Walking is a great exercise and almost anyone can do it.

Me personally, I find it hard to walk and not have music to listen to. If I have music to walk to it is as if the whole world is gone and there is no one around but me. Nothing else matters and it keeps me focused. My mind can be my own worse enemy at times, when I walk and don't have music I worry about what people are thinking about me and it is those thoughts that can kill my motivation. Some of them are "When will this be over" or "How much farther do I have to go" and/or "I can't wait till I get home", just to name a few. When I got my MP3 player all those thoughts seemed to disappear. So if you want to start walking, I suggest that you get yourself one of these great little machines, it will make walking or exercise of any kind much better, I promise.

How cute is that??

If you read my blog then you will know I LOVE a great deal and I am about to tell you of another deal find.

If you are like me and you want an MP3 player to listen to music and your not really worried about whether it is going to make breakfast for you, then check out this SanDisk Sansa Clip 2GB MP3 player. It is small yet it holds a ton of music and when I say a ton of music, I mean it. This 2GB player can hold up to 30 hours of music or get this, up to 500 songs! Yes, that is right, up to 500 songs, all depending on the length of the songs you put on there.

I must tell you, that is not my most favorite feature about this MP3 player. The feature I like the best is that I can still listen to my favorite radio stations on it! That's right, if the music you add gets old or if you are like me and like to listen to the lunch time remix, which I might add has some awesome walking music then you have the option of listening to something other than what you loaded on it yourself. And yes, I own one of these!

Now the all-important price and of course shipping. Buy.com is offering this SanDisk Sansa MP3 Player for $46.75 plus free budget shipping! Yup, no need to rub the sand out of your eyes, you did read that correctly, free budget shipping! Times are tough and if you can wait a few extra days then this is an awesome deal.

No one wants to spend money on a whim anymore and Buy.com has a load of Weekly deals for consumers who are looking to spend money but spend it wisely. So if you are looking for a better price on an an item or you are just afraid to leave your house, then you will want to check out what Buy.com has to offer. A dollar saved is a dollar saved and if you don't need it in a hurry go for the free budget shipping and save a few bucks in the gas tank too!

Taking Pride In Yourself

So my son is at that age where everything changes physically. At 13 your body is causing havoc!!! I swear the kid goes to be and wakes up taller everyday. I also have noticed some pimple surfacing. I never had them and I was hoping the same for Zachary but that doesn't seem to be the case. They aren't that bad and I hope they never do get really bad, but I still have been debating on whether or not to get him started on an acne treatment before it get full blown.

I have been on the "Take Pride In Yourself" kick with him. His father has a uni-brow and his inherited that unfortunately. Some people may think I am nuts but I recently took him to have his brow waxed! That's right, why wait until he is older, it was bothering him now and it only hurts for a little while! It is all about pride and if I can get him to care about himself now, then maybe we will never have any real hygiene issues later.

Ummmmm, Here I Go

I have hit a semi funk lately. I always have plenty to blog about, trust me my mind goes 100 MPH, I just don't take the time to get it in a post. Honestly, I have been off the wagon for a couple of weeks. I haven't gained any weight thanks to the walking but I also haven't been on point either. I wish dieting was as easy as obtaining a life insurance quote! So instead of getting on here and talking about it, I have been well, I guess you could say ignoring it. So once again I am hoping back on the wagon. I guess this is all part of the way it goes, maybe one day it will just sink in and there will be none of this on again of again crap.

Not Mine

I have been spending some time a Lowes lately. I really want to paint my apartment, it needs a new look. It just stinks cause it's not mine so I don't want to waist my time, energy and most of all moeny! We may be moving at the end of the school year anyways. We live in a nice town town but most of the people have money so rent is more expensive. I finally convince my husband there are plenty of nice towns to live in and rent could be a lot lower. We would like to buy a house but have decided to wait until we pay off the truck.

I guess I shouldnu't do any thing here, I really just need to wait till we have our own home. I'll tell you though, I did find some really nice Kohler faucets.

Turbo Jam

I should be looking for a tv wall mount, but seeing as I really don't feel like it and I have a question anyways. Have you tried Turbo Jam or maybe you know someone who has? I saw the infomercial on tv and it really peaked my interest. I really want to try it, but I want to hear from some people who have tried it or are using it now. I did some research online and the most I could find is that customer service stinks. I found one site that had reviews on the product. Most of them where positive, although there were a couple of negatives. So if you have tried Turbo Jam, please drop me a comment, I am really interested in your opinion.

Got Belly Fat?

I know I do and to top it off it is one of the hardest areas for me to tone up. So what is the best way to lose they belly? Well, cardiovascular exercise or going under the knife and that is not what I am about! Crunches will not be enough to clean up the mid section so get moving, add a cardio routine to your exercise plan and watch that belly disappear! It won't happen over night, so be patient and keep at it.

Leave Me Alone!

You know how hard it is to be in this house an not eat! Oh my goodness, it is like the food has voices and I am being beckoned to the fridge and pantry. I already did damage the last couple of weeks and quite honestly, I don't plan to do anymore! Usually I am at work and it is the vending machine, yup the food machines talk to me where ever I go! I have to go to my weigh in the week and suffer the consequences of not following Weight Watcher's recommendations!

Jack Sprat Could Eat Not Fat, His Wife Could Eat No Lean

My cat's would fit wonderfully!

The black one, who is also the fat one is Miss Kitty aka Chubs, Chunk-A-Lunk or famously known by me as none other than...Stinkarella (don't ask..it is what happens when you get to fat to clean yourself!)
The gray one is the one who is not so fat is Emmit aka Chump or Sweetie Petey.